Weeknight Meals
Perciatelli with Tuna, Capers and Tomatoes
A country-style Italian bread and a hearty salad of romaine with roasted peppers and black olives would be great with this pasta dish. Pears with walnuts and Gorgonzola cheese would be a nice dessert.
Spaghetti with Pepperoni, Peas, and Browned Onions
Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.
Chicken with Tomatoes, Onions and Mushrooms
(POLLO ALLA MARENGO)
On June 14, 1800, Napoléon Bonaparte defeated the Austrians at Marengo, a village in southeast Piedmont. The town has given its name to this chicken dish, which was cooked on the battlefield by Dunand, chef to Napoléon. It is still served throughout the area-as well as in France-and is often made with veal. Serve with lots of bread to soak up the juices; uncork a velvety red Barbaresco.
Sauteed Cod Provençale
Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.
Pepper- and Coriander-Coated Salmon Fillets
A sprinkling of orange peel and parsley contrasts with the spicy crust on the salmon fillets. Serve with corn on the cob and a crisp, cold Chardonnay.
Lean Red Beans and Rice
A streamlined variation on the hearty Louisiana favorite.
Salmon Teriyaki with Carrots and Onions
Can be prepared in less than 45 minutes.
Sauteed Red Snapper with Creamed Fennel and Onion
Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.
Penne with Stir-Fried Beef and Red Bell Pepper
Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.
Salmon with Arugula, Tomato and Caper Sauce
Start with grilled country bread spread with olive paste, or olivada, available at Italian markets, specialty foods stores and some supermarkets. Or puree pitted, black, brine-cured olive oil in a processor.
Layered Nacho Salad
Make the salad in a clear glass bowl to show off the colors. Pass some purchased red wine vinaigrette or buttermilk dressing alongside.