RECIPES BEGINNING WITH 'm'

This one is quick (prep is only a few minutes), but it's best when you've planned ahead at least one hour to allow for the full-flavor marinating time. I’m so glad to see a container of this in my fridge, a hearty sandwich filling for vegetarian lunches.

Five minutes is all you need to take one pound of ground beef and turn it into meatballs. Since they bake in the oven, this recipe frees you from babysitting them on the stove. Add a dipping sauce and an easy appetizer is ready. Or add your favorite sauce and pasta/rice and dinner is all set.

Can’t go wrong with classic meatloaf. And this recipe is done start-to-finish in less than half the time of a regular oven-baked loaf.

Turn a can of chickpeas and some leftover rice into a delightful side dish in only 15 minutes.

Soft flour tortillas are super-handy to keep in the fridge and freezer. Add lettuce or whatever veggies, meats and cheeses you’ve got on hand, and you’ll have a satisfying meal in less time than it takes to order a pizza!

A perfect 'last taste of summer' salad that pulls together in minutes. This salad is best with fresh-from-the-garden tomatoes. Leftovers stay tasty for several days in the refrig.

Reprinted with permission from Modern Spice: Inspired Indian Flavors for the Contemporary Kitchen by Monica Bhide, (Simon & Schuster, © April 2009). Check out more of Monica's work on her website and blog, A Life of Spice. This is delicious in Monica's Green Chutney Chicken recipe also.

Thanks to my mother-in-law for this traditional family classic. Not only is it simple to prepare, it is the best filling I've ever eaten. Use Italian bread (day-old or stale is best) for outstanding flavor and texture.