Totally Vegetarian

June 16, 2008
This all-purpose vegetarian cookbook from the host of the PBS series Delicious TV's Totally Vegetarian
offers about 200 accessible recipes—from appetizers (Fried Polenta Squares; Roasted Eggplant Caviar) to “sweet finishes” (Maple-Baked Pears; Nutty Shortbread Cookies; Banana-Chocolate Chip Cake). Fiore's reassuring voice makes even the (somewhat) complicated dishes seem doable; lots of variety in the ingredients and flavors make the book a handy resource for vegetarians in need of daily ideas. Some of those ideas fall into the obvious: of course there are recipes for Lentil Stew and Seared Tofu, and a few too many rely on mock meat and fish products. But there are plenty of innovative dishes along the lines of Black-Eyed Pea and Arugula Salad with Honey Vinaigrette, and Rosemary-Roasted Winter Vegetables for anyone wanting to stay interested in meat-free cuisine—as well as helpful adaptations to inspire vegans, too.