Fish

Nothing is more basic to French olive people than tapenade, the simple and delicious Provençal caviar eaten with toasted bread. It can be flavored with garlic, bay, thyme, mustard, and even rum or Cognac. Here, it is done the old way.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. The chef at Cafe Diablo uses 6- to 8-ounce local trout fillets from Road Creek Trout Farm. We have adapted the recipe for smaller fillets.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Whole roasted salmon always makes an impressive main course. Be sure to have the salmon cleaned when buying it. Begin preparing the fish the day before the party. Serve Champagne to keep things festive.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

An elegant salad that would add a sophisticated touch to any Thanksgiving menu.

Jason Gareffa of Los Angeles, California, writes: "Pursuing a career in acting keeps me tremendously busy. Between my improv comedy classes, performances, auditions for film and television roles, and gigs as a DJ for weddings, I don't have a lot of extra time on my hands. But good food is important to me, especially since I need a lot of energy to stay on the go. So over the years, I've started experimenting in the kitchen. Now the other members of my improv group even like to come to my 'wrap parties' to taste my creations."

A salad of baby greens and citrus is a nice accompaniment, and so is rice pilaf studded with chives. Spoon sugared sliced strawberries over scoops of strawberry sorbet for a happy ending. This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Active time: 1 1/4 hr Start to finish: 2 1/4 hr

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

(Italian Parsley Sauce)