Cooking for the Weekend: Food for the Best of Times

I purchased this book several years ago, and use it more than ever now that I work at home. Some of the recipes are a bit more time-consuming than you will want to attempt for an after-work meal, but they are just the thing for socializing around the kitchen during the weekends. The book is nicely divided by seasons, so for example, if you're looking for a great Saturday night dinner in Summer, there are many recipe suggestions suited to the very best foods of the season. The Sunday breakfast/brunch ideas are all excellent. One of my year-round favorite dinners: Pork Chops with Bourbon-Maple Pan Gravy--a dish that receives rave reviews every time that I serve it! McLaughlin provides clear and thorough directions, and has an entertaining writing style throughout. This book is a must-have for anyone who ever entertains stay-over houseguests!

This is the first cookbook that every recipe has been fabulous, the first time I try it. The Crab cake sandwiches and the bean and corn salad have become staples around our house. I especially like the menu and season format for the recipes.