Together: Memorable Meals Made Easy

“To be in a loved one’s presence... that’s what life is truly about,” writes celebrity chef Oliver (Ultimate Veg) in this glib collection of recipes intended to be enjoyed with others. After a touching dedication to the U.K.’s National Health Service workers, he conveys his book’s aim: “Think good old-fashioned dinner parties, celebrations... or just getting your nearest and dearest over for that wonderful end-of-the-week meal.” But what follows is more of a haphazard assemblage of dishes and Pinteresty photo collages with captions such as “Recipes that can embrace a whole rainbow, in a comforting way, are a delight.” Chapters are organized as menus, and aesthetic considerations, such as grilling potatoes “until [they’re] beautifully bar-marked,” abound. In a bid to offer comfort food, Oliver hews heavy: garlic knots with a cream cheese filling pair with rice and beans, and breaded chicken cutlets go with pesto, while a Bundt cake with veggies and cheddar, Hasselback potatoes with sausages, and a fennel gratin with more cheese are sides to accompany an “epic” roast. The aptly named Eton mess (a “megamix mish-mash”) is one of several gloppy desserts. While there’s much to gather over, these recipes are casting about for a cohesive theme. (Nov.)