Asparagus

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Israeli couscous, sometimes known as pearl pasta, is available at Middle Eastern markets. You could also order it from Joan's on Third in Los Angeles; 323-655-2285.

You might have to grill these in batches.

The pink-peppercorn garnish gives this chilled soup a pretty spring look.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

The bright green of the fried asparagus with the yellow egg sauce and the orange salmon roe topping makes a colorful display.

Can be prepare in 45 minutes or less.

Serve this newfangled main-course salad with a crisp flatbread, such as lavash, and white wine or rosé spritzers.

Risotto de Bulgour aux Pois et Asperges At the restaurant, this is made with spelt, a chewy grain that requires much longer cooking than does the more readily available bulgur called for here.

Chervil's delicate anise flavor enhances the season's baby vegetables. If you don't have chervil, substitute fresh dill.

Start this meatless meal with artichokes filled with a lemon mayonnaise for dipping, and serve the risotto with a mixed green and cherry tomato salad and a basket of toasted herb bread. To polish things off, set out a purchased raspberry tart.

The pasta and sauce cook simultaneously (so two cooks can divide and conquer), for a total of about ten minutes, start to finish. Serve with your best bottle of bubbly.

Great with just about any main dish.

Fontina cheese is available at cheese shops and some supermarkets.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. We found this pasta just as delicious without the salmon.