Salpicón, tomato and mozzarella sandwich, collard squares, gingered salmon, and chicken with orzo make a fantastic dinner party, with minimal effort from the host. (Spencer Weiner / Los Angeles Times)
Gingered side of salmon is easy, and delicious hot or cold. Two sides will serve up to 20. (Spencer Weiner / Los Angeles Times)
The best potluck strategy is to lay claim to the main course, like this gingered salmon, which can be easy and most impressive. (Spencer Weiner / Los Angeles Times)
Salpicón, the Mexican salad made of shredded braised beef tossed with chiles and finely diced cucumbers, tomatoes, avocado and cheese, makes a very impressive main dish. (Spencer Weiner / Los Angeles Times)
Baguette sandwiches are heated in the oven or on the grill, then cut into slabs to create a one-handed meal. (Spencer Weiner / Los Angeles Times)
Cut small, these quiche-like collard squares are perfect hors doeuvres, but in big squares they are an excellent vegetarian entree. (Spencer Weiner / Los Angeles Times)
The recipe for chicken with olives and orzo can easily be doubled. (Spencer Weiner / Los Angeles Times)
