Starter

Delicious in romaine salad or on their own, these pecans are boiled in a spicy sauce, then deep-fried.

This bread uses a yeast starter, which enriches its flavor and texture. Be sure to prepare the starter one day ahead. Humidity makes the crust crisper, so the recipe calls for spritzing the oven with water; simply use a standard spray bottle and tap water.

Active time: 15 min Start to finish: 15 min

Active time: 45 min Start to finish: 45 min

Serve Champagne with this starter.

Serve this zesty dip with crackers or cut-up raw vegetables.

Like feta cheese, ricotta salata is made from sheep's milk, but it is milder and nuttier. Avoid prepackaged cheese if possible (most cheese stores will cut it from a wheel for you). It keeps for up to three weeks in the refrigerator. Active time: 40 min Start to finish: 40 min

This is from Tabla, where it is served with tamarind chutney and pappadams, the savory wafers that accompany most Indian meals.

Active time: 15 min Start to finish: 15 min

Fennel Braised with Garlic Many Jews of Ashkenazic descent do not consume legumes during Passover, and, of this group, there are those who consider fennel a legume.

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

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

For a sophisticated touch, crumbled goat cheese is sprinkled over the fennel and broiled until just beginning to brown.