I do not have the first volume of this series, but I love “Book Two” and consider it a basic collection of good vegetarian recipes. But they aren’t recipes that will appeal only to vegetarians. So many of the recipes are for foods anyone and everyone will love, especially the soups. The Spiced Lentil Soup, Cream of Carrot Soup, Creamed Fresh Pea Soup, for example, are all irresistible and have become family favorites.

My favorite section is for pastas, and here again, there is much for everyone to love, from Spinach and Cheese Gnocchi to Spaghetti Alla Carbonara (without the bacon, meaning it tastes a lot like the wonderful Cacio e Pepe so ubiquitous in Italy). There is a whole chapter devoted to Mexican dishes and one just for Indian foods - both have delicious recipes you will come back to again and again.

The dessert chapter is so interesting, as it focuses on international treats.

My very favorite recipe in this book, making it worth the price of the whole book, is the Cheese and Tomato Pie. The author writes, “Call it either a quiche or a pizza, it is one of the most delicious pies around.” I call it the best deep dish pizza recipe I have found anywhere, and I make it again and again!

Suggested menus in the front of the book will help you plan meals. ( )

This is the first cookbook that I fell in love with. This book was magic to me. EVERY SINGLE RECIPE I tried came out fabulous. I loved reading how the author developed each recipe.

Appropriated my mom's copy when I got my first apartment. And was glad that I did, despite my carnivorous ways. ( )

Every bit as delicious as the original book! ( )

Suggested menus lead off & have enough variety that one does NOT say "uhhgg, bland!" Lots of Mediterranean style and just "style" Easily prepared, readable index. Brown print in a mid-size font on ivory shaded paper annoys an older cook I know, but worth squinting at! ( )