cover image The High Performance Vegetarian Cookbook

The High Performance Vegetarian Cookbook

Susan M. Kleiner. MacMillan Publishing Company, $15 (256pp) ISBN 978-0-02-861014-6

The authors, registered dietitians, share knowledge and views on how a diet based on fruits, vegetables, grains and beans can lead to and sustain good health. While the title seems to target vegetarians whose interest is piqued by the attention currently given to high-protein (and often low-carb), high-performance eating plans, the recipes are not protein-packed. The focus is on the wealth of disease-prevention benefits, including some protection against cancer and heart disease, that accrues to those who follow a well-balanced vegetarian diet high in carbohydrates and low in fat. Fat contributes a minimum of calories in such unusual and tempting recipes as Spicy Caramelized Parsnips; Carrot Blinis; and Gingered Asparagus. For readers with a sweet tooth, there are reduced-fat versions of such old favorites as Carrot Cake, moistened with egg whites as well as canola oil and grated carrots, and Cherry Cheese Strudel, constructed with fat-free ricotta cheese and phyllo dough. For those new to vegetarianism, there is helpful information about putting together smart meal plans. Equipment recommended for outfitting the ""high-performance vegetarian kitchen"" is no different from what would be found in any basically stocked kitchen. (Apr.)