Gale Gand’s Lunch!

Lunch is an often-underrated meal, but in her newest book acclaimed Chicago chef and TV personality Gand gives it her full attention. Gand, writing with Matheson, starts out with simple, nutritious snacks like baked kale chips; crispy roasted chickpeas; and homemade banana chips. Gand’s “Sammies” include recipes for the a turkey reuben; Cuban sandwich; and lobster roll. Comfort food favorites like potato leek soup and chicken and dumpling dominate the Soup chapter, while internationally inspired dishes rule the section on appetizers like Thai summer rolls and grilled tuna with cucumber wasabi salsa. Gand’s main course salad options include the undeniably appealing slow-roasted salmon Niçoise salad. Also covered are vegetable salads and sides, fruits, desserts, and drinks. Gand delivers a solid collection of popular, if typical, lunchtime dishes with something for everyone. Agent: Jane Dystel, Dystel & Goderich Literary. (Apr.)