Oven Bake

Start this romantic supper with Russian caviar and ice-cold lemon vodka. The main course is a simplified but impressive interpretation of the Russian fish pie known as kulebiaka, which the French call coulibiac. Offer Champagne with the entrée, and finish the meal with babas au rhum from a French bakery to complete the cross-European elegance.

You don't have to cook the lasagna noodles first - just assemble the dish, cover and bake.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

For a particularly light and crunchy coating we used panko (coarse Japanese bread crumbs) on these crab cakes rather than regular bread crumbs. Panko is increasingly available in this country, not only in Asian markets but also in seafood shops.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Baked Chicken Breasts with Mushrooms and Artichokes in Sherry Sauce

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

(with Caramelized Onions and Gorgonzola Cheese)

Serve with: Tartar sauce, potatoes au gratin, and a spinach salad with cider vinaigrette. Dessert: Chocolate pudding.