Salad

Active time: 15 min Start to finish: 15 min A wonderfully versatile salad that can be served with almost any main course. The vinaigrette is zesty and fresh, yet it's mild enough to work well with a variety of flavors.

Packaged Near East tabbouleh mix, available at most supermarkets, is a good source of bulgur, but we don't use the accompanying seasoning pouch. Bulgur-wheat berries that have been steamed, dried, and then cracked- is also found in natural food stores.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Here's a colorful make-ahead starter that's perfect for entertaining. Serve this bistro tradition-called assiette de crudité-with a baguette and butter.

(Sushi Rice Salad with Avocado, Cucumber, and Scallions) Sushi fans will recognize this salad as a California roll unrolled. For those who want to include one of the classic ingredients, surimi (also known as mock crab legs), we've given an amount, but the salad is also delicious without it.

Toasted pecans and shaved Parmesan accent this lovely starter.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This dressing is great for turning mixed greens, steamed broccoli or asparagus spears into a delicious salad.

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

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

An Asian take on pasta salad. Soba, or Japanese buckwheat noodles, have a brown-gray color and nutty flavor.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.