Cabbage

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

There are many different versions of this traditional island dish, which is known as sopas mallorquínas. Spanish smoked paprika (pimentón) is distinctive and worth seeking out for its unique flavor.

I've always loved coleslaws, using them as side dishes for everything from oyster rolls to whole grilled fish. Far from the chopped green cabbage with flecks of carrot from our school cafeteria days, the slaw can be quite elegant.

Serve this zesty salad alongside grilled chili-rubbed chicken or steak, or grilled fish tacos.

To make things even easier, use a cabbage slaw mix. Serve with: Deli rice salad.

Braising the cabbage in cider gives it a light but distinct apple flavor.

Grated roasted beets lend interest here.

Begin making the coleslaw two days ahead and the whitefish one day ahead. Pour a Chardonnay or Pinot Noir with dinner.