26 sweet spice nut recipes

Florentine triangle cookies with a buttery shortbread crust, candied cherry and pineapple topping with almonds, and a semi-sweet chocolate drizzle. A stunning holiday cookie.

Sweet red peppers simmered with paprika-stained onions, tomatoes, and a splash of red wine vinegar in this classic Russian lecho. Serve warm, cold, or at room temperature.

"SOUTH TO NORTH -- `Everything' Salsa Adds Zing to, Well, Everything." Jacqueline Higuera McMahan

Veal chow mein casserole baked with tomato soup, Worcestershire sauce, and bean sprouts, served over crispy noodles. A retro American-Chinese comfort dish.

Layered vegetable casserole with broccoli, zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers in a creamy ricotta sauce, topped with Parmesan bread crumbs and pecans.

Bright orange and red salad with romaine, fresh orange, radishes, red pepper, and onion in a cumin-cayenne lemon dressing. Indian-style five-minute side.

Crispy Indian-spiced vegetable pakoras of eggplant, zucchini, cauliflower, and mushrooms in a curry-coriander batter, served with a spiced mango relish flecked with star anise and cinnamon.

This colorful version of corn chowder features a medley of spices and fills the kitchen with aroma.

Layers of tofu ricotta, herb-sautéed zucchini, golden mushrooms, and spinach stacked between artichoke lasagna noodles in a rich spaghetti sauce. A hearty vegan lasagna for 8 that's loaded with vegetables and bakes up bubbling and gorgeous.

Vanilla is the secret ingredient in this cross-cultural sauce, which is also delicious served with grilled or roasted meats, poultry or seafood.