Nathalie Dupree Cooks Great Meals for Busy Days

TV cooking star Dupree's book offers even the casual cook hope that tasty meals can be made without too much trouble. But this is not a five-ingredients-or-less primer that relies on tuna fish or other canned staples. A well-stocked pantry is required to whip up most of the meals. ``Very Wild Rice Salad'' calls for wild rice, dried figs, pecans and cashews--and uses real wild rice, which requires an hour or more to cook. Preparation times for recipes are not included, though a clock symbol indicates those which may be partially prepared ahead. Dieters will adore Dupree's guacamole, made with shredded zucchini, while children will devour the amply sugared desserts, such as the Heath Bar cheesecake. Though sophistication is an avowed interest of the book, fresh pork roast with dried fruit, duck with orange and mint, and braised lamb with carrots are all examples of make-ahead dishes for entertaining that are not particularly inspired. More eclectic and intriguing are the two dozen recipes for vegetables and side dishes. Two-career couples who enjoy cooking for company will find ideas for plush menus that may be made in advance, but families with children to feed may find many of the dishes rather expensive and time-consuming. (June)