Canned Tomato

Cioppino is San Francisco's answer to bouillabaisse and, like that famous Provencal seafood soup, is made with a variety of the freshest fish possible. In San Francisco the mixture included Dungeness crab, which adds a unique flavor, but any regional crab will do. If crab is not available, substitute another shellfish. No clams? Try mussels. The point is to treat the following recipe as a guide and use whatever looks best in the market the day you make the soup.

Arroz Rojo In Mexico, this popular rice dish is usually made with vine-ripened tomatoes. For best results, use good-quality canned tomatoes or, in the summer, shop for tomatoes at a farmers' market if you don't grow your own. Simple grilled meats or tomato-sauced main dishes pair perfectly with red rice.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This Moroccan-style dipping sauce would also be delicious on grilled chicken or fish. Active time: 20 min Start to finish: 1 hr

The somen noodles called for in this recipe are a very thin Japanese wheat noodle. They are available in the Asian section of many supermarkets, at Southeast Asian markets and at specialty foods stores.

Offer this simple, hearty dish with a green salad, crusty garlic bread and a light red wine, like Beaujolais.