The Lemonade Cookbook: Southern California Comfort Food from L.A.'s Favorite Modern Cafeteria

Alan Jackson, the man behind the successful Los Angeles-based food chain Lemonade caf%C3%A9, shares his take on SoCal comfort foods in this bright and cheerful collection. With recipes like these, it is easy to understand why his cafe is so popular among locals: corn chowder, beef stroganoff, mac and cheese, chicken chili, and basic chocolate chip cookies are never-fail classics, and the lion's share of the cuisine. Jackson also offers inventive riffs like roasted parsnips with pecorino cheese and a farro and spaghetti squash salad with pomegranate vinaigrette. There are also thoughtful applications for leftover buttermilk baked chicken, beef short ribs, and chicken basque%E2%80%94three dishes that require more preparation but are surely worth the effort. Virtually all of his recipes are well thought-out and clearly explained; novices as well as pros will find something that's worth a try. Fans of Ina Garten's simple approach to tasty food will savor this attractive and accessible collection. (Nov.)