A combination of cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper gives these chai cookies a taste reminiscent of Indian spiced tea. The fine texture of powdered sugar helps them retain the characteristic shortbread crunch.
Cabbage cooked in bacon drippings and seasoned with garlic, red pepper flakes and caraway seeds makes a cozy nest for smoked Polish-style sausage in this homey, hearty and satisfying supper.
Coconut milk and lime juice seasoned with ginger root and cayenne pepper create a spicy broth for this Thai-inspired soup with strips of white chicken, cilantro and chopped scallions.
Hearty Italian sausages sauteed with garlic and red pepper flakes are simmered with tomatoes and cooked with vodka and cream to make a rich, spicy sauce. Toss with penne and fresh parsley to serve.
In just a matter of minutes you can whip up this simply splendid dish of pasta and olive oil, heady with garlic and seasoned with parsley and red pepper flakes. Finish with a generous coating of melted butter and serve warm.
Easy side: Toss together romaine lettuce, freshly cracked pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese; toss with your favorite bottled Caesar dressing. Sprinkle with croutons.
Another pretty dish. Tomatoes, green pepper and zucchini are sauteed until tender and their flavors have mingled. Rice and water are stirred in and everything is cooked until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is fluffy.
When your garden is full of fresh veggies, this is the recipe to reach for. All you need is a salad and you have a terrific late-summer meal.--Debbie Jones, California, Maryland
Substitute chicken for pork in this dish, if you prefer. Pink beans are similar to pinto beans, but smaller; if you can't find pink beans, substitute pintos. Add cheddar corn bread and orange slices to round out the meal.
This is a quick and easy curry stir-fry made with chicken, zucchini, red bell pepper and carrot. Coconut milk and curry paste make an irresistible sauce. No need to go out to eat, as this dish is ready in about 20 minutes!