Book Review: The Complete Small Plates Cookbook (With Recipes!)

by | May 8, 2023

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Headshot, Donna Sanders, Food Editor

Been to a restaurant lately? If you have, you have probably seen a “Small Plates” section on the menu. But, have you ever tried to make one?

The Complete Small Plates Cookbook by America’s Test Kitchen not only gives you recipes, but lessons regarding the different categories of small plates, how to create menus, cooking strategies, how to serve these little ditties, menu suggestions and so much more. Easy!

As one who enjoys eating and entertaining I figured why not give the book a quick look? I really had no expectations, after all is it just another cookbook and I have so many.

Well…. I was wrong.

From the minute I opened the package I was hooked. Touching the cover — I know that sounds weird — was an experience alone. It’s not a hardback or a paperback, but something in-between that has an amazingly soft feel with a positive energy compelling me to really take a good look.

The table of contents is broken down into categories you are looking for: nibbles, little bites, and heartier bites. Takes the guess work out. As a bonus, each recipe goes into detail about why the recipe works. Kind of interesting because it pairs ingredients together that you may not have thought of.

Let’s take it one step further. Have you ever wondered what would go great with the dish you are cooking? They’ve got you covered. Each recipe provides dishes that complement the small plate of your choice.

Bottom line, The Complete Small Plates Cookbook offers twists on our old favorite recipes and will introduce culturally diverse and unique foods for your taste palate.

HIGHLY RECOMMEND

Check out this amazing Fingerling Potato Salad With Sun-Dried Tomato Dressing and Whipped Feta Dip to get a taste of what The Complete Small Plates Cookbook is all about!