Tomato Clam Chowder

Chock-fiill of potatoes, clarns and spinach, this tomato soup has a fresh Italian flair. Ursula Valiquette of McLennan, Alta., says that homemade soup makes a nutritious, fast meal when you come home late from work or are in a rush to attend a meeting.

Garden Minestrone

Frozen spinach is a handy standby ingredient you can use instead of fresh. Since Melissa needs to avoid dairy, she can top the soup with crunchy croutons, but a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or a swirl of pesto would be heavenly, too.

Garlic Mussels

ON THE TABLE IN 20 MINUTES

Meatless Polpette in Tomato Sauce

Polpette, or Italian meatballs, are fantastic with a side of sautéed rapini or other leafy greens. Or serve with cooked pasta, quinoa or rice.

Vegetarian Chickpea Burgers

These are similar to falafels but are not deep-fried. You can refrigerate them for up to 8 hours before cooking.

Balsamic Vegetables

Before: The original recipe has 1/4 cup (50 mL) olive oil and a whole tub of feta cheese. After: This lightened-up version increases vegetables and tosses them with balsamic dressing. Grilling instructions are added for summer months.

Grilled Eggplant with Provolone Cheese

Grilled Steak Salad with Sugar Snap Peas & Asparagus

Grilled Sausage, Pepper and Bocconcini Pasta Salad

Diane's Stuffed Shells