Chicory

This recipe is from chef Peter Doyle from Cicada in Sydney. "This dish is a play on Maltaise sauce, but in a lighter, fresher version more conducive to our climate."

At the Fifth Floor, this is prepared with quail. Game hens make an easy-to-find substitute.

Arborio is a short-grain Italian rice that is one of four varieties typically used for risotto in Italy-the other three are Baldo, Carnaroli and Vialone Nano. Arborio can be found at Italian markets here, and is becoming increasingly available at supermarkets.

A suitably named pasta salad that's loaded with flavorful ingredients. Try it with grilled veal chops or Cornish game hens.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This lovely side dish is delicious with roast pork or chicken, or grilled sausages or fish. Market tip: Escarole has a pleasantly mild bitterness and sturdy leaves that hold up well to cooking. Young escarole (available at farmers' markets) is mellower and makes a wonderful salad green.

This delicious salad is from Johannes.

Potato salad, grapes or fresh figs, and brownies round out this lunch. To make things even easier, use raw onions.

Active time: 20 min Start to finish: 20 min