Sensational Preserves

Spring is the time to plan for fall preserving, so Reader's Digest's May publication of Sensational Preserves is right on target. Over 250 recipes by British cookbook writer Hilaire Walden include such standards as Strawberry Jam and Ginger and Peach Chutney, along with pickles (Indian Pickled Onions), beverages (Tangerine Ratafia, with gin or vodka) and dishes to use them in (Pheasant and Elderberry Casserole). The clear text is further illuminated by David Gill's tempting color photos. (Putnam, dist., $24.95 144p ISBN 0-89577-840-8) Seattle cookbook writer Bharti Kirchner (The Bold Vegetarian) introduces 50 variations on a familiar theme in Vegetarian Burgers: The Healthy, Delicious Way to Eat America's Favorite Food, a May title from HarperPerennial. Inventiveness rules in these meatless concoctions, made from grains, beans, vegetables, nuts, seeds, tofu and soy. ($12 paper 144p ISBN 0-06-095115-X)