Smoked Salmon

Also very nice on toasted bagels.

To make the nori rolls in this recipe we used a bamboo sushi mat, available at Asian markets and some specialty shops. It's possible to make the rolls using a double thickness of aluminum foil instead of a sushi mat, but using a mat makes the process much easier.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Make this the centerpiece of an hors d'oeuvre platter that includes crackers, breadsticks, cornichons, and olives.

This sophisticated appetizer from Aqua in San Francisco is nice for a special occasion.

The cheese-filled salmon rolls are sliced into rounds for a lovely presentation. They make an elegant appetizer and would be delicious served with Pinot Noir.

These can be made one day ahead, then drizzled with the vinaigrette just before serving.

Look for wasabi powder in the spice aisle or the Asian foods section of the market.

Talk about deviled eggs: The decadent filling includes smoked salmon and salmon caviar. What to drink: A chilled dry rosé is refreshing; it also stands up to the sweet-sour components of this menu.

Fresh strawberries and cookies from the bakery round out the meal nicely. Pour a dry white wine or iced tea. Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Herbs and a touch of maple syrup accent this colorful breakfast dish.

Wondra, a fast-blending flour, is a supermarket staple that's ideal for thickening sauces and gravies. It is put to good use in this quick pasta dish.

A simple but elegant cold dish. The sauce can be made a day in advance.

Serve warm croissants and an arugula and Belgian endive salad with lemon vinaigrette to accompany this dish. Baked apples with brandied whipped cream complete the meal.

For a nice presentation, garnish the plates with thin cucumber slices, watercress sprigs and some radishes.