International

Mashed roasted squash (calabaza)

Squash cubes are roasted until soft and caramelized and, while hot, mashed. Butter, salt, pepper, herbes de Provence and cream are stirred in to complete this lovely side dish.

Cook time: 20

Servings: 2 people

Garlic butter corn and green beans

A tasty and colorful side dish that cooks in 15 minutes. Pair it with grilled meat or seafood, or roasted chicken or turkey.

Cook time: 15

Servings: 4 people

Chicken and sausage rice (arroz con pollo y chorizo)

Cut-up chicken marinated in sour cream, slices of chorizo, vegetables, rice and broth simmer together to make a tasty one-bowl meal. Easy enough to cook on a weekday and, at the same time, fancy enough to serve for a not-so-ordinary occasions.

Cook time: 45

Servings: 6 people

Onion gravy

Lots of onion, a dark roux, the best vegetable broth and a drizzle of Worcestershire sauce. These are what it takes to make the tastiest onion gravy. Serve with meat, chicken or just plain mashed potatoes.

Cook time: 22

Servings: 3 cups

Pork, sausage and beans

Pork strips browned with paprika, salt, pepper, chipotle and cayenne, and slices of Spanish chorizo are simmered in broth before a can of baked beans is added to make a delicious stew.

Cook time: 50

Servings: 4 people