Cajun/Creole

Here, the rich, dark roux of a Louisiana-style gumbo is laced with carrots, parsnips, okra, and green beans, but feel free to substitute any vegetables you have on hand.

Inspired by the Cuban national dish moros y cristianos (Moors and Christians), this robust meal is complete on its own. Depending on your mood, serve strong, hot Cuban-style coffee or chilled beer.

Rather than use meat substitutes, we turned to pecans to give this gumbo its “meaty” heft and a hit of protein. As they cook, the pecans become tender and chewy while lending the sauce a hint of nutty flavor. Feel free to spice things up with extra Cajun seasoning and hot sauce.

The key to perfect coleslaw is a creamy base, a hint of sweetness, a touch of tangy vinegar, and, in the case of Cajun versions, a little kick from hot sauce or cayenne pepper.

A home-style dessert gets a tropical twist by baking spiced mangoes and pineapple beneath a crunchy crumble topping. Serve with non-dairy, vanilla ice cream.