Watercress

Active time: 15 min Start to finish: 45 min

Sheenga Chat Here is a wonderful recipe of the chettinad (the business community) of Madras whose food often reflects a fusion of northern and southern flavors. In this shrimp preparation, for example, both Curry Powder and Garam Masala are used to achieve intriguingly complex results.

Cabrales is Spain's famous blue cheese. Its creamy texture and assertive flavor make this dish irresistible. And there's no fear of falling here: These soufflés can be made two hours ahead and rewarmed before serving.

What to drink: Fruity, soft red wines — such as Merlot and some Zinfandels — work well with the mustard glaze and ham.

The jalapeño-flavored butter is also good with chicken or fish, or even corn on the cob.

This salad is dressed with a red pepper and tomato sauce.

Truffle oil lends an earthy flavor; it can be found at specialty foods stores and some supermarkets. If you can't find the oil, these sandwiches will still be delicious without it.

Italians like to have salad after the entrée, so do the same, if you like.

Coarse kosher salt — or any other coarse salt — will add texture and enhance the flavor of the meat. Serve with: Oven-roasted new potatoes, thin green beans, and a crusty baguette.

Although raw asparagus might seem unusual to those who have only eaten asparagus cooked, it is delicious. The slightly different flavor is highlighted in the following salad.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Excellent served cold in summer, the soup also makes a soothing hot starter during the colder months.

Salade de Cresson et Endive Active time: 10 min Start to finish: 10 min

The contrasting colors of these two beets are especially attractive in this dish but you may substitute any others.

This updated classic adds dashes of red — and depth of flavor — to the usual apple, celery, and walnut mix. Make the salad ahead and refrigerate, then add the watercress and pecans right before serving.