Watercress

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This soup is also wonderful hot.

This three-in-one dish (chicken, rice, and soup) originated in Hainan, a tropical island off China's southern coast, and has become a culinary staple in Malaysian culture.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Vinegar and mustard give the dressing in this salad an assertive flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the beets.

This midsummer fare is adapted from a dish I enjoyed at 192, our favorite wine-bar-restaurant in London's Kensington: its inspiration is, I am sure, from Spain. You can buy a whole chunk of chorizo sausage — or a string of smaller ones — to slice yourself. Most good gourmet stores stock chorizo (mild or spicy), and many supermarkets do, too.

Fresh strawberries and cookies from the bakery round out the meal nicely. Pour a dry white wine or iced tea. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Also try the flavored mayonnaise on roast beef or ham sandwiches.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 30 min

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

The vinaigrette for this salad benefits from standing for 1 hour to let the flavors of the thyme and garlic develop.