Young & Hungry: More Than 100 Recipes for Cooking Fresh and Affordable Food for Everyone

Dave Lieberman is a breath of fresh air to Food Network's list of 'celebrity' chefs. He has the unjaded enthusiasm of a newbie, the approachability that Tyler Florence tries to have but comes off as a bit insincere, and a genuine love of cooking that transcends both the electronic and written medium. None of the recipes in Dave's first book are impossible for the entry-level cook, and he does a good job of explaining cooking basics (what tools are a must-have and what to keep a running stock of in the pantry) and then delving into easy-to-make recipes that won't cost a fortune to make. While some of the fare is a bit college student-esque, most of the things I've made from this book are actually pretty good crowd-pleasers. The fact that Dave takes a Nigella Lawson approach to his book and its recipes - he has a very 'talky' style that makes it seem as though he's sharing his recipes with friends - makes it all the more laid back and refreshing. Can't wait to see what his next book, due in October, does to expand his love of fresh ingredients and great flavors while at the same time keeping things relatively simple and affordable.

I was so tired of trying to print out recipes from the food network website every time I liked something from Dave's show. I previewed this book from my local library, and loved everything I made. This is a must for any kitchen, and would make an excellent gift. I agree with the previous reviewer -- Dave's the man!

If you're a Rachael Ray fan, you'll like this book. I've had this book only a week and have already made several recipes and LOVED every one. Most recipes are quick, simple and use relatively few, everyday ingredients, not to mention totally yummy! The mini fudge cakes alone are worth the price of the book. A great book for cooks of any level.

Good stuff. This is a really appealing book that presents recipes in an easygoing way that makes the whole cooking process less intimidating. Lieberman's casual conversational tone is a welcome break from other cookbooks that assume too much and provide too few details on the basics. My only minor gripe is that I wish more recipes were pictured. That said, try the potato chip crusted salmon or his simple burger recipe--both were hits with my fiance.

You gotta love this guy. Young , charming...and the man can cook. He is about to have a new show on television but I haven't seen that yet so I'll just stick to info about this book. His food isn't generally the type that you spend all day slaving in the kitchen to prepare, so if you really enjoy the challenge of an elaborate, complicated recipe (which can be fun and gratifying in its own way), you won't find much of that here. From beet salads with goat cheese to fried fish and quick beverages, he focuses on food that befits his experience and background (he grew up cooking in his family's kosher kitchen and he went on cook economical, but gourmet, meals while at college). Most of the recipes would fit a standard American budget - and not one based on caivar and champagne, although there are some exceptions. By the way, if you need a good gift for the college grad, forget the pen and pencil sets, the briefcases, watches and other typical grad gifts for someone starting out in life. GIve them this instead and they'll REALLY impress visitors, clients and guests!