December Thrifty - Week 3 #3 ~ Bailey & Joel : Good Parties & Comfort Table

Lee Bailey's Good Parties, published in 1986.  Both a cookbook and an entertaining book, as many useful ideas and hints are given by Mr. Bailey in addition to his delicious recipes. There are menus for various dining occasions along with glorious photos taken by the author.  Also included are game plans with timing of the dishes and advance prep tips.

The first chapter is titled Summer House and features many beach themed meals: an oven fish fry, summer salad lunch, a grilled outdoor supper and a fall Sunday lunch. The City is next with an enhanced and sophisticated palate. The menus include an elegant Saturday night dinner, a festive breakfast and a Winter seafood dinner.

A short chapter titled Winter vacation delves into vegetable purees and salads. The last chapter is "My Kitchen and Table". There are photos of Mr. Bailey's favorite glassware, pots & pans, appliances, gadgets, flatware and plates. I absolutely ADORE kitchen gadgets and pored over his collection and found I may lacking in a few things!

The Comfort Table, published in 2008.  The 125 dishes, including updated classics, are delicious and quick to prepare with easily available ingredients. The book opens with a quick list of tips for entertaining then quickly delves into the recipes.

The usual topics are covered from starters, salads & soups, entrées, desserts, etc. This book would be great for novice cooks or for the harried cook as the recipes are simple and easy to prepare. I bookmarked a few for those busy week nights.