Cucumber

In the early part of the decade, an appreciation of Asian flavors, a desire for spa-style cuisine, and the popularity of sushi dovetailed with the creation of this appetizer, usually prepared with raw salmon or tuna. The dish is now found on restaurant menus nationwide. This version, which calls for smoked salmon, features a wonderful combination of Pacific Rim flavors.

This recipe was created to accompany Smoked Whitefish Cakes with Cucumber Salsa. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Asian cucumber ribbon salad can fill a pita pocket — with other ingredients or on its own — or it can accompany fish or meat as a side dish.

Use this dressing on hardy salad greens, such as romaine or spinach.

If you can't find the Moroccan spice blend at the supermarket, combine 1 tablespoon ground cumin with 1/4 teaspoon each of ground coriander, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper. Serve with: Romaine salad and bowls of mixed green and black olives. Dessert: Purchased apricot tart.

Greek yogurt, if you can find it, is incredibly thick and creamy and a delight to eat. It shows up in several guises on the Greek table — as a savory dip, in sauces, or for dessert. Active time: 15 min Start to finish: 1 1/4 hr (includes draining)

A typical Israeli breakfast selection would include this salad (either already prepared or with the vegetables available), the pita bread, and Za'atar along with fresh goat's — or cow's — milk cheeses, yogurt, hummus, hard-boiled eggs, olives, and avocados (in season).

Raita is a yogurt salad, and integral--and cooling--part of an Indian meal. It can be prepared with raw and/or cooked vegetables (we use both here) or with fruit.

This dish, which is called Vietnamese Fajitas at Kim Son restaurant in Houston, works well as an appetizer or as a main course.