Anderson revives the art of entertaining in this unthreatening collection of simple but elegant dishes, following her successful The Perfect Recipe
(which won a Julia Child Award), Cooksmart
and How to Cook Without a Book
. She focuses on moderately easy, stick-to-your-ribs, crowd-pleasing dishes that can be made in bulk (for up to 20 people). Categorizing her recipes by occasion, she offers dishes like Buttermilk-Honey Fried Chicken Fingers, or Sausage and White Bean Soup for an informal "Kitchen Gathering," and Easy Baked Risotto, and Butter-Roasted Lobster Tails for ooh-la-la blowouts "In the Dining Room." For an "Outdoor Affair," Shish Kebabs and Sear-Ahead Steaks or Salmon do nicely, while "Breakfast for Company" consists of dishes like Orange Cream Cheese Strata with Cranberries and Walnuts. Recipes for appetizers, soups, salads, side dishes, breads, desserts and even drinks fill in the gaps, while Anderson helpfully answers anticipated questions for each recipe: When should I serve it? Any shortcuts? How far ahead can I make it? What should I serve with it? What about leftovers? Throughout, Anderson's easygoing tone and reassuring attitude will relax any nerve-jangled host or hostess. This is not a book for master chefs, certainly, but it delivers solid dishes sure to impress the average dinner party crowd. Photos. (Sept. 14)
