Beefy Corn Tomato Casserole

The tomato paste used in this recipe is a concentrated source of lycopene, with 28 mg per 1/4 cup (50 mL) compared with 3 mg in 1 raw tomato. It is also noteworthy that research indicates lycopene from cooked or processed tomatoes is more readily absorbed by the body, especially if cooked with olive oil.

Mexican Slow-Roasted Leg of Lamb

Slow roasting gives you exceptionally tender lamb and allows the Mexican flavours to permeate the meat. You can substitute 2 tsp ancho chili powder for the whole ancho pepper; just mix it in with the ground spices.

Cuban Pork Roast with Mojo Crillo

If we close our eyes, the memories of mojo — citrus juice sauce spiked with garlic and cumin — drizzled over spit-roasted pork are as alive as when we tasted it in Cuba. We've recreated the experience with a roast marinated in these ingredients and served with its own drippings. Cubans would use 1 cup (250 mL) sour orange juice from Seville oranges, but because they are impossible to find out-of-season in Canada, we have substituted lime and lemon juice. Be sure to use a roast with the backbone removed or ask the butcher to remove it for you. The slices are neater than if the butcher simply cuts between the chops.

Western Chili

All you'll need to make this classic dish is some ground beef, a couple of onions and some pantry staples (including a spoonful of cocoa powder, which adds flavour and a deep reddish-brown colour). Serve with your choice of sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro and, for nostalgia, chopped cucumber. For a more modern touch, swap out cucumber for chopped avocado.

Hearty Sausage Stew

Challenge: If you think it's only the kids who get impatient when they're hungry and supper's not ready, meet my husband, George. He has to watch his fat intake, so I aim to serve lightened-up but satisfying suppers. Solution: I've found a way to feed George and myself quickly with a few of his favourite ingredients. Start with sausages: he adores them but can't have too many. He also loves stew, so a sausage-flavoured chunky tomato stew makes an ideal supper over polenta or linguine. It's quick enough to keep him happy, and because I use only 8 oz (250 g) lean sausage for four servings, I don't feel guilty. The plus is having leftovers to reheat for lunch or freeze for him to have on evenings when I'm out.

Mediterranean Vegetable Pie

Empanadas

Smaller versions of these savoury stuffed pies from Spain and Latin American make ideal snacks for tapas-inspired parties.

Chicken Enchiladas

This rolled-tortilla casserole comes together deliciously with easy-to-find ingredients from the supermarket.

Baked Macaroni and Beef

This layered casserole is a snap to put together for a youngster who's able to handle the stove. If there are any leftovers, you can pack them in a container to reheat for lunch the next day.

Two-Layer Baked Pasta

Two layers of pasta with a red tomato sausage sauce and a white béchamel sauce make a visually interesting baked pasta that's easier than lasagna and perfect for relaxed entertaining.