Heart & Soul

This cookbook has been a staple of mine for more than 10 years now. While I rarely use it on a daily basis, whenever I have a special occasion, this is where I turn. From taking Dixie Caviar to work to fixing Pork Chops with Browned Garlic Butter Sauce for Mother's Day to baking Jalapeno Cheese Grits for Christmas breakfast, this cookbook always has something for me. And the personal stories that acompany many of the recipes are a delight to read. A truly wonderful addition to any cookbook collection and a great gift for others.

My husband is the main cook of our family, but I do try to cook sometimes - I am one that has to have a recipe, and that has to look at several before deciding what to cook. Both of us love this cookbook. It is one of our top 2 (The other is Gracious Goodness, which also happens to have originated in Memphis, put out by the Memphis Symphony.) All of the recipes we've tried have been great,and we frequently get asked for the recipe, especially for the prociutto wrapped asparagas, and I don't really even like plain asparagas but these are a treat! We bought a half dozen of these to give as gifts. The salads I've tried have also been great. Anyone who likes to cook would love this pretty and classy Southern book.

Of the many cookbooks I own, this is my very favorite. I have given it as a gift several times, and everyone I know who owns it agrees that it is great! The recipes are wonderful and most are relatively simple: common, easy-to-find ingredients, reasonably quick preparation, and things that just sound good! I entertain frequently, and this is the first book I go to for ideas. I've often been asked for recipes taken from this book. Additionally, the presentation of the book is pretty and fun--delightful stories and good cooking tips, along with lovely photos. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys cooking or seeks a gift for someone who does. You won't be disapppointed!