7 Ways With Cayenne

Spicy Herb-Roasted Nuts

Maple syrup adds a sweet counterpoint to spicy cayenne in this addictive snack of almonds, hazelnuts, pecans, and walnuts. Use fresh or dried herbs, but make plenty. These nuts keep in the freezer for up to one month.

Recipe: Spicy Herb-Roasted Nuts

Cheese Twists

Puff pastry, grated Parmesan, an egg, and a few spices are all you need for this oh-so-easy-to-make appetizer. But it's the kick of cayenne that elevates these buttery twists into something special.

Recipe: Cheese Twists

Romesco Sauce

Typically served with grilled fish or chicken, this traditional Spanish sauce bursts with the flavors of roasted almonds, smoky sweet paprika, cayenne, red bell peppers, tomato, garlic, breadcrumbs, and olive oil. It's also a great condiment for sandwiches.

Recipe: Romesco Sauce

Beef Stew in Spicy Berbere Sauce

Ethiopian cooks favor a spice blend called berbere (made with cayenne, cumin, fenugreek, turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, and paprika) to flavor savory dishes. Put it on beef chuck roast for a simple stew that simmers to perfection in two hours.

Recipe: Beef Stew in Spicy Berbere Sauce

Smoky Beef-and-Bacon Chili

Fire roasted tomatoes, bacon, ground beef, beer, and spices simmer for 30 minutes to build a rich, complex chili that's even better the next day. Serve it with cornbread and all the traditional chili toppings.

Recipe: Smoky Beef-and-Bacon Chili

Goan Duck Vindaloo in Hot-and-Sour Cayenne Sauce

In India, the term Vindaloo is reserved for the hottest of curry dishes. But in this recipe, potatoes and a host of other sweet and savory spices help tame the heat. Substitute chicken breasts for the duck breasts if you like.

Recipe: Goan Duck Vindaloo in Hot-and-Sour Cayenne Sauce

Mexican Chocolate Pots de Crème

Deep dark chocolate goes South of the Border in this creamy dessert laced with a subtle bite of cayenne and the sweet lingering flavor of cinnamon. Start baking early in the day since this pudding-like dessert needs to chill for three hours.

Recipe: Mexican Chocolate Pots de Crème

More Quick and Easy Ideas

Check out other tasty ways to use everyday ingredients:

• 7 Ways With Peanut Butter featuring Chocolate-Peanut Butter Bars (left)
• 7 Ways With Salmon
• 7 Ways With Corn
• 7 Ways With Fresh Shrimp
• 7 Ways With Rotisserie Chicken