Wild About Greens

June 11, 2012
Atlas (Vegan Express) successfully elevates leafy greens beyond the salad bowl with this collection of recipes that will appeal to vegans and meat-eaters alike. Though she excludes cabbages and common lettuces, Atlas introduces a host of other dynamic greensâfrom the "bold" arugula, to the now ubiquitous kale, to the "peppery" watercressâand includes plenty of tips for buying and preparation. In addition to a host of recipes for salads, soups, and dips, Atlas shows how to incorporate a healthy portion of greens into "heartier dishes," as in quinoa with chard and chickpeas, a bean and escarole pasta, and a roasted eggplant curry. She also invites adventurous vegans to try their hand at green juices and smoothies, which utilize a broad range of ingredients, including apples, collards, chocolate (nondairy) milk, and spinach. Though each of the recipes stands alone, meat-eaters could happily pair their favorite protein with many of these dishes. Clear and simple instructions, combined with Atlas's conversational tone, make this guide to greens a valuable addition to any cook's bookshelf. Illus. & photos.

April 15, 2012

Greens are a side dish no more! Inspired by an overabundance of chard in her kitchen garden, Atlas created a full menu of over 100 internationally inspired dishes and dips starring cruciferous greens. A handy introduction includes the names, health properties, and flavors of all featured greens, as well as tips on buying, preparing, freezing, and dehydrating. Author of ten vegan and vegetarian cookbooks--including Vegan Holiday Kitchen and Vegetarian 5-Ingredient Gourmet--and the creator of vegkitchen.com, Atlas is known for time-saving recipes with simple ingredient lists; featuring recipes calling for about six to ten ingredients each, her latest book does not disappoint. VERDICT Full of enticing, healthy recipes like Kale Chips and Collard-Wrapped Yellow Rice and Black Bean Enchiladas, this cookbook will attract vegans, vegetarians, foodies, and adventurous dieters.--Elizabeth Hanson, Chicago P.L.

Copyright 2012 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.