Shellfish

Allow 3 to 4 of the large shrimp per person. If only the smaller are available, you will need about 6 per person.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

At Vong in New York the lobster is rolled in paper-thin strips of daikon radish. Zucchini, which is much easier to find, is used here; its more flexible and easier to cut.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

A perfect crab cake is plump and moist with a crisp crust and has enough spice to accent, not overpower, the crab.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Good accompaniments to this Sicilian-style pasta are an arugula and fig salad, breadsticks, and gelato with amaretti.

An elegant first course from Club Gascon.

Bonnie Wilkens Metully of Cincinnati, Ohio, writes: "Having two very active teenagers means I've also had to learn how to put together an interesting dinner even on busy nights. I get inspiration from my favorite bedtime reading, an immense collection of cookbooks and food magazines. I also do a quick grocery run every day —usually because I've just read about a dish that I simply must try —but also because having a well-stocked refrigerator is the key to easier cooking."

Tarragon adds its distinctive anise-like flavor to this terrific main course.

These can be made one day ahead, then drizzled with the vinaigrette just before serving.

Parmesan isn't usually served with seafood pasta, but the cheese adds a nice richness to this linguine.

Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 40 min

These mussels, flavored with garlic-herb butter and baked instead of steamed, beg for some crusty bread to sop up the wonderful sauce. Try them over pasta, too. Active time: 20 min Start to finish: 35 min