Carrot

If you choose to omit the sweetbreads, simply begin the recipe by sautéing the pancetta. (In that case, you may also want to purchase a larger veal or pork loin — going up to a 5-pound veal loin or a 6-pound pork loin.)

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Some advance preparation is required for these wings: The yogurt needs to drain for 2 hours and the wings need to marinate for at least 2 hours.

This hearty stew is great served over egg noodles. Bitter greens with a creamy Gorgonzola dressing would be a good side salad. Have sliced bananas and strawberries drizzled with honey and balsamic vinegar for an elegant dessert.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. Makes use of the microwave oven.

Despite its name, the "hot ajvar" called for in this recipe from Zov Karamardian, of Zovs Bistro and Bakery in Tustin, California, is fairly mild. If you cant find ajvar, a substitute can be made by pureeing a seven-ounce can of drained roasted bell peppers with two tablespoons of tomato paste and two tablespoons of purchased chili-garlic sauce, which is available at most supermarkets.

Pass hot pepper sauce and warm buttered tortillas to complete this easy dish.

Briefly cooking the spices brings out their oils and enhances the flavor. Before pureeing the soup, be sure the carrots are tender. Once the orange juice has been added, reheat the soup over very low heat.

"Before we got married, my husband, Gregg, and I were working at a small restaurant, and it kept us ridiculously busy," writes Anita L. S. Eberhardt of Beverly, Massachusetts. "Now that we have both left the restaurant business, we have a much saner schedule, although raising two kids certainly keeps us busy. My experience as a professional cook makes it easier for me to throw together a quick meal, which is good because I'm not a convenience-food mom: I try to limit fat and salt, emphasize fruits and vegetables, and use a minimum of prepared foods."

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Elegant batons of carrots, parsnips, and rutabagas make a pretty presentation. Serve this alongside roast pork, beef, or lamb. Market tip: If carrots still have the tops attached, make sure they are bright green and fresh-looking. Choose cream-colored parsnips that taper gently; this makes it easier to cut uniform pieces. Medium-size rutabagas (about the size of a yellow onion) are best; larger ones can be woody.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less. In France many swear by cooking these carrots in the pure water of Vichy, said to best bring out the vegetable's delicate flavor, but in truth the dish is delicious made with good water of any origin.

Purée de Carottes et Pommes de Terre Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 1 hr

Active time: 15 min Start to finish: 1 1/4 hr