A Go-To Guide for Beautiful Snacks, Intimate Gatherings, and Inviting Feasts
April 5, 2021
Worcel (Platters & Boards) returns with a charming guide to entertaining that’s as much about atmosphere as it is about cooking. “To help you end up with a visually cohesive, themed party vibe,” Worcel organizes things into two parts: Building a Spread—“platters, boards, and servingware... grouped together by a common theme”—and Recipes, Boards & Tables. She encourages readers to skip around as needed, finding a recipe in part two, then consulting the first for presentation; if the Smoky Carrot Bloody Mary is on the menu, for instance, one might peruse the glassware section in part one for a suitable vessel. With the recipes organized by theme—“Keeping It Casual,” “Interactive,” and “Holiday Showstoppers”—Worcel makes it easy to choose the motif. The Standard board’s spicy cantaloupe jam and pickled zucchini ribbons is a simple option, while those looking for a more involved endeavor could check out the instructions for a Pierogi Dumpling Party. Heading into the holidays, the salted pecan tart would be a great complement to a sweet spread. Smartly organized and thoughtfully written, this will appeal to aspiring and experienced party hosts alike. Agent: Cindy Uh, CAA.
May 7, 2021
Following up on their guide Platters and Boards, here the authors move on to tables and spreads, presenting a variety of approaches to building a spread and the importance of establishing a focal point. Besides the art of styling, the book also covers tablescaping (setting themed dining tables in decorative ways for special events) for casual get-togethers as well as holiday spreads. Each option includes flavor combination ideas, suggestions for optional drink pairings, styling notes, and a sidebar with tips on offering substitutions. As in the authors' previous book, their rich photographs are a particular highlight and will guide home cooks as they recreate snacks and spreads. There are ideas for various occasions (girls' night, a baby shower) and options catering to vegetarian and vegan diets. Highlights include a dumpling party, which can be created with the help of the entire family, as well as a customizable autumn oatmeal spread. VERDICT Ideal for party planners, this cookbook offers a score of ideas. A useful addition for libraries looking for more books on entertaining.--Barbara Kundanis, Longmont P.L., CO
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