Starter

The corn coulis also pairs nicely with pork tenderloin, shrimp, or grilled chicken. Active time: 35 min Start to finish: 45 min

Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 30 min

Active time: 40 min Start to finish: 1 3/4 hr

The riper the tomatoes, the better the flavor of this delicate consommé. To clarify it, we've used the traditional French method of creating an egg-white "raft," which attracts particles from the simmering broth and is then discarded. Though the consommé is served cold, it is not jellied.

Active time: 15 min Start to finish: 15 min

This is a delicious, low-maintenance alternative to traditional risotto.

Chalupas Poblanas de Pollo Look for tightly stacked tortillas in packs of 50 (they can be frozen). They are pressed tightly together to retain moisture and freshness and are available in Latino markets and some supermarkets. Delicious tortillas can also be mail-ordered from Maria & Ricardo's Tortilla Factory (800-881-7040). Other Mexican ingredients are available at Mexican markets and many supermarkets. Active time: 40 min Start to finish: 40 min

Active time: 15 min Start to finish: 25 min

Think of a plate of pancakes and maple syrup with sage-seasoned sausage patties: This dish has that same mix of satisfying, sweet-savory flavors. Start preparing the strata one day ahead; it needs to be refrigerated overnight before baking.

Serve these wings with the hot-and-sour coleslaw.

This recipe calls for sweet Gewürztraminer, but any other sweet white wine (excluding dessert wines) should do. This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less but requires additional sitting time.

"Usually I rely on cookbooks or magazines for recipes, but occasionally I develop one of my own," writes Kimberly R. Diamondidis of Germantown, Maryland. "A few years ago, I created this delicious, hearty soup as a new way to enjoy turkey."

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

Since the crust is made with purchased puff pastry, this delightful savory tart comes together easily.