Book excerpt: The 1997 national award-winning cookbook offers over 500 mouthwatering recipes that feature fresh ingredients and ease of preparation. Over 100 color photographs and a fabulous entertaining section are profiled. Unique sidebars highlight common traditions associated with food (for example, the history of the birthday cake). The book is a winner of the Benjamin Franklin, Small Press, Tabasco, Mid-America Publishers Association, Writer's Digest, and several other design and content awards.