Toast

Caponata is a Sicilian antipasto; its bold flavors usually include eggplant, anchovy, olives, and capers. We call our version a "caponatina," because we've finely diced the ingredients for a more refined hors d'oeuvre. Active time: 45 min Start to finish: 1 hr

To make this easy appetizer even easier, substitute store-bought roasted red bell peppers for the home-roasted ones.

These five-ingredient sardine toasts make the perfect party snacks to pass around during cocktail hour.

These bruschette from the cookbook Simple to Spectacular by Jean-Georges Vongerichten and Mark Bittman (Broadway Books), look both simple and beautiful. Each is topped with an array of mushrooms—shiitake, cremini, and chanterelle —that is set off by fresh tarragon. Active time: 30 min Start to finish: 45 min

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This recipe was created to accompany Chilled Tarragon Tomato Soup with Vegatable Confetti . Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Active time: 15 minutes Start to finish: 1 1/4 hours

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

A terrific appetizer for parties.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Active time: 40 min Start to finish: 1 hr

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.