Mediterranean

A well-stocked pantry is among a cook’s best allies, and mine always contains a jar or two of roasted red peppers. With the peppers and a few staples and seasonings, I can quickly whip up a dip or sauce to shine a little light on almost any winter meal. Salsa Romesco, originally from the Catalan region of Spain, is an enticing all-purpose sauce I use to dress up a variety of simply prepared meats, fish, and vegetables -- even scrambled or fried eggs.

A well-stocked pantry is among a cook’s best allies, and mine always contains a jar or two of roasted red peppers. With the peppers and a few staples and seasonings, I can quickly whip up a dip or sauce to shine a little light on almost any winter meal. Feta and red pepper dip, something I make almost reflexively when guests are coming, takes just five minutes to whip up.

A well-stocked pantry is among a cook’s best allies, and mine always contains a jar or two of roasted red peppers. With the peppers and a few staples and seasonings, I can quickly whip up a dip or sauce to shine a little light on almost any winter meal. Muhammara is a tart-sweet-spicy-earthy dip from the eastern Mediterranean. It is worth seeking out pomegranate molasses for the Muhammara, but you can substitute a mixture of 1½ tablespoons regular molasses and 1½ teaspoons fresh lime juice.

We reduced fat by coating the eggplant with egg whites instead of whole eggs and baking, rather than frying, the slices for a lighter version of this classic.

Purchased tabbouleh spooned onto whole romaine lettuce leaves is ideal with these Mediterranean-inspired sandwiches. Follow with baklava and fresh grapes. 

Quintessential Greek flavors—feta, lemon and dill—combine perfectly in this hearty salad. To complete the Mediterranean mood, try pairing it with a Greek Retsina or a Portuguese Vinho Verde. 

Because of its shape, orzo can do nearly anything rice can do, and if you’re a pasta lover, you might say orzo does it better. Saffron and fennel are two characteristic flavors in many Mediterranean dishes.

Best served at room temperature or lightly chilled, eggplant purees can fill many roles -- appetizer dip for toasted pita or fresh vegetables, anchor of a meze platter, relish to dress up simply cooked meat or fish, or hearty vegetable side dish.