Grilling

Don't let the name fool you. This chicken is sweet from the honey, but it's also very spicy from a jalapeño chili and plenty of black pepper. Frosty lager beer and orzo salad are cooling accompaniments. The chicken needs to marinate for at least four hours, so begin preparing it ahead of time.

The combination of anise seed and basil in the following recipe may seem unusual, but it enhances the faint licorice flavor in basil.

A high-protein dish loaded with flavor. Purchased sorbet makes a nice dessert.

Gorgonzola cheese flavors this hearty main course. Serve with a chilled Beaujolais.

An easy side dish with flavor from green onions, parsley, oregano and Parmesan.

This spice rub is also great with chicken. Team the steaks with a salad of boiled green beans and quartered radishes, and offer some favorite beer.

Tahini, a creamy sesame seed paste, adds a new twist to the dressing for the salad.

This entrée is excellent for summer entertaining. It's even better — and easier — if you place the meat in the marinade a day in advance. Accompany with steamed white rice to catch the juices.

Whole-wheat pasta is a flavorful alternative to pasta made from white flour. The tan color is particularly attractive when set off by cheese-in this case ricotta salata or feta.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Offer with lots of hot tortillas and cold beer.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.