Broccoli and Cauliflower with Garlic and Oil

Often the simplest approach to vegetables is the best. And while most party-givers avoid the whole question of hot vegetables at a buffet, this festive Italian dish is both a visual and taste treat.

Fresh Black Cherry Cheesecake

Luscious is the perfect word to describe this no-bake dessert with its top cobbled with garnet red or pink-cheeked sweet fresh cherries. We like the dark cherries — Bing is a well-known variety. Use intensely gingered English-style cookies for the crust.

Orange and Beet Salad with Parmesan Curls

Paper-thin curls of Parmigiano-Reggiano accentuate the salad's nutty notes.

Grilled Shrimp with Vegetable Skewers

Succulent seafood and garden-fresh vegetables make an easy summer grill.

Couscous Timbales

One-Pot Beef and Noodle Simmer

Adding vegetables to stews is easy with frozen ones on hand. The freezer section of the store has combinations such as Chinese, Japanese, Italian and Californian.

Apple Vinaigrette

Coddled Eggs Florentine

Serve with a crusty baguette for a satisfying cold-weather meal.

Mustard Seed-Spiced Green Beans and Onions

Spiced with fragrant mustard seeds, these green beans pair beautifully with any kind of grilled meat. You can use yellow mustard seeds if you can't find black ones.

Grilled Chicken Sandwich with Caper Mayo

Nutritious and easy to make, this bistro-inspired sandwich is made with ingredients you already have on-hand: chicken breast, lettuce and tomato. Paired with a fresh, crusty baguette, it's perfect for lunch or dinner.