Fish

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This Basque dish is essentially a fish pâté or pudding, called budíns in Spain.

Porrusalda, or leek soup in Basque, is a very traditional dish. It includes pumpkins, an interesting component in a soup composed of both Old World (carrots, leeks) and New World (potatoes, pumpkin) ingredients.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

The fresh flavors of fennel and orange make this simple fish dish shine. You can serve it alone or with a helping of rice.

We like to team this with red and green cabbage coleslaw, pickled onions and carrot sticks-as well as a pint of ale. Have lemon ice cream cones for dessert.

It's hard to get consensus on the definition of scrod. According to well-known Boston chef Jasper White, most New Englanders would agree that it's baby cod weighing under two pounds. However, some say that baby haddock and pollack are acceptable. Others contend that the kind of fish isn't important, but the manner of preparation is: If it's not broiled with the breadcrumbs, it's just baby cod. The Parker House hotel in Boston claims to have invented the dish. Here's our rendition; we serve it with broiled tomatoes.

Sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, capers and thyme add Mediterranean flavor to the fish.

(Savory Sandwich Torte) A variety of fillings can be used in this savory sandwich torte, often served on special occasions in Sweden.

Two New Orleans favorites — catfish and pecans — team up in this terrific dish from Upperline Restaurant.

Wondra, a fast-blending flour, is a supermarket staple that's ideal for thickening sauces and gravies. It is put to good use in this quick pasta dish.

A satisfying all-in-one main course. The fatty acids in salmon make this recipe particularly healthful.

Have more French bread on hand to serve with this colorful main course. A dry white wine is a good match.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Classic French tapenade is a spread of black olives, capers and anchovies, among other ingredients. This version has green olives instead of black.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

For accompaniments, buy your favorite potato salad and steam some zucchini. Have lemonade and brownies afterward.

This one is delicious made with shrimp and/or scallops, too. If using lobster, garnish the plates with the empty shells.