Vegan

Soybeans in the Pod Sweet, delicious young soybeans, which appear fresh in markets in Japan throughout the summer (they are available frozen in the U.S.), make great hors d'oeuvres. They are packed with protein and fun to eat-the slightly fuzzy green pods tickle your lips as you gently suck the beans into your mouth. Provide bowls for the empty pods. This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This recipe originally accompanied Fruit Salad with Poppy Seed Dressing

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Wheat berries, minimally processed grains of whole wheat, are sometimes marketed as hard wheat.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less but requires additional unattended time.

This jam has a good, concentrated flavor: The only liquid comes from the rhubarb and berries interacting with sugar and lemon juice. The quick-to-prepare jam also makes a nice filling for tarts.

Top toast points with this for an appetizer, or serve it as an accompaniment to grilled lamb, fish or chicken.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. When buying fresh coconuts, look for ones without mold (check the eyes) or cracks. Choose coconuts that are heavy for their size—a sign that they contain plenty of liquid, which keeps the flesh from drying out. The thin, clear liquid, or "coconut water," can be used in soups or for cooking rice. You can also drink it as is. If it tastes sweet, the coconut is fresh; if it tastes oily, the coconut is rancid and should be discarded.

Carciofi alla Romana Active time: 1 hr Start to finish: 1 1/2 hr

Russet potatoes are the classic choice for baking but also are best for frying. Because they’re high in starch and low in moisture, they make crisper fries. And don’t refrigerate potatoes for frying; the sugars that accumulate cause very rapid browning and the fries can turn bitter. Active time: 15 min Start to finish: 30 min

Add crunch to the meal by having rice cakes on the side. Sauvignon Blanc is a good choice to balance the flavors of the vegetables.

This recipe is an accompaniment for Chocolate Chestnut Torte with Chocolate Cognac Mousse. Active time: 25 min Start to finish: 1 1/2 hr