Two peas & their pod cookbook Favorite everyday recipes from our family kitchen

Family-friendly, party-friendly fare takes center stage in this latest from Lichty (Cookie Cravings), featuring recipes for breakfast through appetizers with appeal to a broad audience of all ages. One chapter is devoted to party dishes in which the guests assemble the entrée, be it waffles, pizza, or ice cream sandwiches. Many recipes include the option of buying prepared ingredients such as salsa, caramel sauce, and pesto, or making your own with a provided recipe. Following the kid-friendly vibe, there are only a few spicy items, though Lichty includes plenty of garlic, fruit, and vegetables. Many dishes rely on time-tested flavor combinations such as apple and caramel, tomato basil, and honey mustard. Recipe notes and brief sections on meal planning, entertaining, and grocery shopping provide additional suggestions for reducing kitchen stress. Sections on cooking with children and a list of "un-recipes" emphasize that a home-cooked meal can be quick, relaxed, and a great way to bond with family members. VERDICT For home cooks looking to expand their repertoire and/or host a low-stakes gathering.--Rebecca Brody, Westfield State Univ., MA