Though they haven't unearthed any groundbreaking information, the authors—along with experts from the heart hospital the U.S. News & World Report
ranks as number one in the U.S.—provide a comprehensive and straightforward heart health manual and recipe collection. The first section is all about lifestyle, covering such topics as risk factors for heart disease, dietary habits and managing stress. Polin and Giedt, specialists at the Cleveland Clinic, provide the recipes, which account for the majority of this volume; they aren't particularly cutting edge, but they're easy and healthy, feature clear nutrition information and generally contain interesting and sometimes intense flavors. Entries such as Grilled Black Sea Bass over Summer Vegetables with Japanese Dressing; Red Snapper Taco with Mango Salsa; Grilled Chicken Breasts with Warm Balsamic Strawberries; Spicy Black Bean Cakes with Cilantro Yogurt could pass muster at most dinner parties. There are even desserts, including a Luscious New York–Style Cheesecake, which is made with low-fat cottage cheese and a sugar substitute, so while it may not taste quite like the real thing, it does give an option for a creamy sweet treat. Tips for stocking a pantry and suggested shortcuts make the idea of heart healthy cooking doable. (Jan.)
