Starter

(BELL PEPPERS FILLED WITH CAPERS, OLIVES, ANCHOVIES, RAISINS AND PINE NUTS) This classic starter highlights many of the distinctive flavors of southern Italian cooking. Pour a rich Taurasi-Campania's best red wine-during the meal, or if you prefer something lighter, try to find a red Lacryma Christi del Vesuvio from a top-quality producer.

A favorite of my mom's and a bit of an ethnic twist! It tastes best if freshly made. Direction #5 is very important, otherwise the triangles will look pale and sickly. Also, don't roll the sheets. The puffs will not be as flaky.

You can prepare this brightly colored dip up to two days ahead.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

The fondue is the centerpiece of a casual dinner with the LaGuardias. They insist that whoever drops the most bread into the pot is stuck with cleanup duty.

Known as coca, this is the traditional street food of Palma. The name derives from the Latin verb coquere, which means "to cook". Shaped in a long oval or rectangle, baked in a wood-fired oven and sold in room-temperature squares, coca is usually eaten as a snack, but it can also be a great starter for a casual meal. Unlike its Italian counterpart, it is covered only with vegetables, never with cheese. There are sweet cocas and special holiday versions, too. When made with frozen bread dough, coca is a snap to prepare.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Easy to make and satisfying.

Traditionally, chiles rellenos are batter-coated and fried. This version is baked with a lighter cheese filling.

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