As we learn more from organizations like the American Institute for Cancer Research, plant-based diets are assuming a larger role in promoting better health through natural ingredients. Fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthier fats found in nuts and seeds and smaller servings of meat have taken the spotlight on the "new American plate." It appears that a vegetarian diet has finally found its place in time and those of you who have visited the Cinnamon Hearts website know how much I admire and respect the recipes and food history presented by Nava Atlas, my favorite vegetarian author.
It can be challenging to create nutritious family meals that appeal to everyone at your table, including the picky eaters, but Nava Atlas has solved the dilemma with a collection of down-to-earth recipes reflecting the way families really eat in The Vegetarian Family Cookbook. Flexible, adaptable, and filled with ideas for creating wholesome foods which are more attractive to children, Nava's latest cookbook tackles breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snack time like no other vegetarian cookbook on the market.
Covering everything from family-friendly salads to comforting casseroles, the recipes take the reader through the day, from luscious breakfast smoothies and crunchy granolas, filling soups, light salads and snacks to the more substantial dishes of a main meal. Atlas draws on inspiration from regional and international cuisine to sensational sandwich fare for home or school, as well as energy-packed choices to sustain you through your busy day. She also takes the mystery out of cooking with soy and provides dozens of delicious whole-grain, low-sugar desserts. Most of the recipes include vegan substitutions for eggs or dairy products. The recipes vary in complexity but are aimed at the busy household, so most can be produced within a reasonable amount of time. Each recipe is complete with a nutritional analysis (dietary exchanges are not included but you can manage very well if you count carbs), along with great "Make It A Meal" menu suggestions.
Whether motivated by economic, ethical, or health reasons, a record number of Americans are now down-sizing their meat portions and emphasizing more fruits and vegetables in their daily meal plans. The Vegetarian Family Cookbook goes a long way to help make this an appealing, stress-free decision. Five full stars for this terrific cookbook!
Reviewed by: Marilyn Helton
