Adventure: Domaine Chandon Blanc de Noirs NV ($22)

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Spaghetti and meatballs, with sauce from a jar
Feeling lazy? No worries. You still deserve a taste extravaganza.

The easy choice: Make it a regional pairing and choose a Nero d'Avola from Sicily. One of Wesson's "favorite go-to wines" when he can't find anything else on a wine list, these medium-bodied babies made from an ancient grape "rarely disappoint." He adds: "It should be bound with the ragù. They should be sold as a pair. They're twins separated at birth."

The adventure: The twin has some competition - a Primitivo from Puglia. Made from the same grape as Zinfandel, Primitivos are "more medium-bodied wines that are wildly food friendly," says Wesson.

Easy: Cusumano Nero d'Avola 2005 ($12)
Adventure: Li Veli Orion Primitivo 2005 ($12)

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Spring salad with grilled chicken, chickpeas, loads of different vegetables, and feta cheese
Whether it's made of leftovers you've thrown together or it's something you've planned from the get-go, this salad calls for a wine that's light, refreshing, and modest in alcohol.

The easy choice: Fruity Sauvignon Blanc wines from New Zealand are "in an ascendant state right now," says Wesson, and you won't have to spend more than $15 for a delicious example.

The adventure: Try the same wine from a different part of the world. Sauvignon Blancs from South Africa are also coming into their own as "vinous stars." Raves our wine guy: "The best examples are essentially amped-up versions of what you get from New Zealand."

Easy: Giesen Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2006 ($12)