Passionate Palate Pizzaz

The Passionate Palate is one of those cookbooks I've had for many years, yet have never cooked from. Here's the thing: it's not just a cookbook.

Now you probably say that about many of your cookbooks, but for this one, the statement is particularly true. Coming from Llewellyn Publications, home of so many unusual titles, The Passionate Palate: Recipes for Cooking Up A Delicious Life touches so many different areas of your potential delicious life that it's sprawling, and I wish it had been edited to be more consise.

That said, it's also intriguing and seductive. The opening line on the back cover says it all: "Wrap up in this warm, fluffy blanket of a book and start pampering yourself inside and out." There are more than 149 recipes and way too many alcoholic drinks. I perused the recipe index:

• Five Minute California Cheesecake
• White Russian Parfait Cake
• Sangria of the Gods
• Strawberry Daiquiri Pie
• Chocolate Chip Cookie Cake
• Cajun Popcorn
• Rose Sandwich
• Ham in Full Dress
• Mocha Hazelnut Scones
• Luxuriating Stew

The other thing that is captivating about The Passionate Palate is the advice on how to live the delicious life. Check this out:

• How to Tell If You're A Perfectionist.
• Single or Married - Take Yourself On A Date
• Happiness Is The Best Possible Therapy
• Honor The Why-The-Hell-Not Spirit of Summer!
• Eating Fruit Au Naturel
• Have A Serene, Happy, and Joyful Christmas!
• Ladies Don't Talk Like That
• Let God do what she's supposed to or...We Can't Always Control.

Get the idea? Passionate Palate is chock full of recipes and tips. It's more than an ample cup of cocoa to nurture your soul - and a bevy of recipes to go along with the nurturing.