Weeknight Meals

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

For a nice accompaniment to the fish, try steamed baby red potatoes and a crunchy cucumber and snow pea salad. Think ahead for dessert: Grill some thick pineapple slices before you cook the salmon; after the meal, top the pineapple with tropical fruit sorbet (such as mango) and a generous splash of rum.

Curry powder, cumin, and cinnamon give this dish a hint of the exotic.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

These chicken wings, inspired by a Macanese recipe, bring together flavors of Portugal, China, and Africa, which were connected through the trade routes and colonization of Macau.

The breadcrumbs crust, known as persillade in France, is excellent with lamb. This makes an elegant meal when served with new potatoes and green beans.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Standard fare at church suppers throughout the region. New England meat loaves often use crushed crackers rather than bread crumbs as a binder. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Thai red chilies are used at Keo's, but a sliced jalapeño chili will work just as well.

Since this exotic dish has a very flavorful sauce, serve it with couscous or rice.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Spruce up some purchased pasta salad with drained marinated artichoke hearts and marinated mushrooms for a hearty side dish. For dessert, spoon raspberries and sliced peaches over vanilla frozen yogurt.

Try the sauce with grilled fish or chicken, too. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.