European

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

A classic lamb preparation from the Temple House in Ballymote, Ireland. Mint adds a nice touch to the puree.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

In the United States, mincemeat pies tend to be the size of regular pies, but this recipe yields the more diminutive British-style tartlets. If desired, top them with a dab of hard sauce, made by mixing softened butter with powdered sugar and a little brandy.

This soup is related to brotchán foltchep, a classic leek and oatmeal soup (also known as brotchán roy) that combines leeks, oatmeal and milk. This version is thickened with potatoes instead of oatmeal and flavored with chicken stock instead of milk. Serve it with savory whole wheat scones or slices of brown soda bread.

Crusty bread and a salad complete the meal.

(Gruyère Cheese Puffs)

Similar to the whipped feta spread at Papagus Greek Taverna in Chicago.

(LES SCOURTINS AUX OLIVES DE NYONS) Jean-Pierre Autrand of Les Vieux Moulins in Nyons, Provence, shared the family recipe for these crisp, salty-sweet cookies.

A variation of this recipe is made by adding 4 to 6 anchovy fillets to the topping. In Rome, it is called pizza alla napoletana. In Naples, where all pizza is alla napoletana, it is called alla romana.

Northern Italian cooks use peas often; in this side dish, the vegetable gets a boost from the Italian bacon called pancetta. If it is unavailable in your area, finely chopped regular bacon can be substituted.