Shopping List 1 1/2 cups black-eyed peas: $0.70 2 bunches collard greens: $5.00

2 strips bacon (pro-rated): $1.50 Pantry items: Olive oil, dried chile, garlic, bay leaves, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, rice. Total cost (for 4 portions): $7.20

I make these black-eyed peas with herbs all year round, but on the first of the year they're a must. With rice and greens, you have a complete modest meal (or inexpensive sides for an inexpensive pork shoulder, if you're expecting a carnivorous crowd). Cornbread, which practically makes itself, is another good addition.

Bunches of collard greens vary so wildly in size that I've specified two, but if you find a large bundle then one should do. (To head off any questions about my shopping list—I eat nice bacon, and it isn't cheap.) Although I didn't grow up eating black-eyed peas and greens on New Year's Day, and I'm not superstitious, I have to admit that the years since I've adopted this tradition have been especially sweet. Why not try it yourself?

Black-Eyed Peas with Herbs