Sandwich

Active time: 1 1/2 hr Start to finish: 2 hr

A relatively new item in the produce section, broccolini is a cross between broccoli and Chinese kale. It has a milder, sweeter taste than broccoli. Buy German potato salad, and braise red cabbage to serve warm with the open-face sandwiches. Gingerbread and chunky applesauce make a perfect finale.

Add a simple green salad to our updated version of the grilled cheese sandwich, and dinner is served.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Our tuna salad has a Mediterranean twist: olives and roasted red peppers. Have this sandwich for lunch at home or work or on a picnic, served with a tomato salad. Active time: 20 min Start to finish: 20 min

Grilling the fish makes it moist and tender.

Goat cheese and mint make for a special springtime version of bruschetta. Serve these on a platter as an appetizer, or offer them alongside the Radicchio Salad .

With months to go before the summer tomato season, we've found that slow-roasting brings out the flavor of winter plum tomatoes.

You would never guess by tasting these robust sandwiches that they are low in fat and calories. The secret is spread made of low-fat mayonnaise, nonfat yogurt, Dijon mustard and chopped arugula.

Martini fans will find that this simple and elegant appetizer goes perfectly with their favorite cocktail.

Fresh Ricotta, Anchovy, and Oregano Toasts Crostini refers to a whole family of antipasti based on thin slices of bread, toasted, sometimes brushed with olive oil, and covered with any number of savory toppings. If you can, buy fresh anchovies and marinate them yourself or buy them already marinated from an Italian or Hispanic deli (where they are known as alici marinati or boquerones respectively; see note below).

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Anchovies, capers, olives and sun-dried tomatoes enhance the delicious butter. It is also good melted over grilled fish or chicken.

Fontina cheese and caponata (a chunky Sicilian eggplant relish available in cans or jars at most supermarkets) make a substantial sandwich. Have pasta salad as well; grapes and assorted bakery cookies complete the dinner. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.