Fry

Here's a simple, richly flavored recipe from Josefina Howard, owner of Rosa Mexicano restaurant in New York.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Here's an Asian - and very elegant - spin on the classic American crab cakes. A dry Gewürztraminer compliments the flavors of this appetizer very well.

A perennial favorite: soft melted cheese and pressed, buttery toast.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

For an especially quick and easy meal, buy prepared Chinese barbecued pork loin (3/4 pound will be plenty). This pink-tinged meat is available at many Asian supermarkets—or you may even be able to purchase it from your neighborhood Chinese restaurant.

Serve with: Steamed broccoli and roasted potatoes. Dessert: Baked apples.

Pomegranate seeds add crunch and tang to this fennel salsa, which makes a perfect accompaniment not only to these pork chops but also to lamb.

The predicaments of six kids growing up under one suburban roof were the cornerstone of each Brady Bunch episode. In "The Personality Kid," which first aired in 1971, Peter thinks he's dull and goes looking for a new image. Trying on Humphrey Bogart for size, he asks Alice what's for dinner. "Pork chops and applesauce," Peter repeats à la Bogart. "Ain't that swell." His parents and Alice make lighthearted fun of Peter's new accent. Active time: 50 min Start to finish: 1 1/2 hr

While in Costa Rica, Boston chef Steve Johnson was inspired to make fish cakes from leftover red snapper and boiled yuca. The combination takes clever advantage of the vegetable's starchy character, which binds the cakes together while allowing the flavor of the snapper to come through cleanly. We prefer to use frozen yuca, which has a better consistency and is easier to prepare.

Sheila Stein of Woodbury, New York, New York, writes: "We've eaten several times at La Viola of Syosset. Their chicken française is excellent. Could you get the recipe for me?"

You can form the sweet-potato pancakes up to six hours ahead, leaving only a quick frying before serving.

Cooking chicken breasts on the bone keeps them exceptionally juicy.

Unlike oven-baked versions, griddle-cooked scones get a wonderful golden crust, which is a delicious contrast to the soft, tender interior. Active time: 35 min Start to finish: 35 min