The Bon Appétit Test Kitchen

Mixed-olive tapenade is available in the refrigerated deli section of many supermarkets. Use a version that is chopped, not smooth.

Black pepper potato chips (use kettle-cooked, which are sturdier) are a surprising and delicious base for this starter.

Use a rolling pin or meat mallet to crush the fennel seeds. Fresh mozzarella can be found at many supermarkets and at specialty foods stores and Italian markets.

Serve this quick flavor-packed steak with sliced avocado, orange, and red onion. Canned chipotle chiles in adobo sauce are sold at supermarkets and Latin markets.

This colorful main course delivers authentic, long-cooked Southern flavors in a short amount of time.

These light pancakes are a great brunch entrée.

Give everyday chicken cutlets a delicious lift with a tangy-savory combination of fresh tarragon and capers. If you don't have a spice mill, a coffee grinder works, too—just be sure to wipe it out before and after using.

This super-quick dessert can be served right away, or covered and chilled for up to four hours. (If you're making the parfaits ahead, let stand at room temperature one hour before serving.) Mascarpone (Italian cream cheese) is sold at many supermarkets and at Italian markets.

Falafel makes a great appetizer when paired with hummus for dipping. For a quick meal, serve atop a salad or inside pita bread with lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of tahini.

Briny olives and sweet golden raisins work in tandem to bring balance to this simple, delicious one-pan fish dinner.

Light and fresh, this pasta dish is brightened with a squeeze of lemon juice. A V-slicer is the ideal tool for thinly slicing the fennel. For an even healthier option, try using whole wheat pasta.

Very versatile and not too sweet, this fruit tart is perfect to serve at breakfast or brunch or with wine and cheese after dinner.

Here's a new take on breakfast.

Aromatic caraway seeds lend a delicate nutty flavor to the chicken and balance nicely with a side of tart, sweet shredded cabbage.

These are great for sandwiches. Just split them in half, slather with some Dijon, pile on thinly sliced ham, and add a lettuce leaf.