Rustic Joyful Food: My Heart’s Table

Recipe developer Kartes expands on her eponymous Seattle cooking class in this heartwarming, previously self-published cookbook focused on bringing people together. Working from the premise that “to feed someone is to love them,” Kartes presents 140 simple recipes created from fresh local ingredients and inspired by her passion for food and family. She brings to the table such appetizers as brie bruschetta with seasonal fruit, as well as a rosemary bacon flatbread. A chapter on salads and side dishes feature a shrimp Niçoise platter with potatoes sauteed with bacon, as well as a cilantro-lime dressed cabbage slaw. Soups and stews include classic beef bourguignon and a French onion soup. Ribs, pasta, tarts, and chuck roast comprise main dishes, and there are six variations on hot dogs (including a Cuban Dog, sandwiched with ham and swiss, and a Southern Italian Dog with arugula, roasted garlic, and sun-dried tomato aioli). Cocktails including Blood Orange Whiskey and espresso-and-bourbon ice cream floats are creative libations. Bakers will find many recipes for sweets, such as pistachio orange shortbread cookies and a frangipane jam tart. Home cooks will enjoy a generous serving of creativity with an extra helping of support in this straightforward cookbook. (Sept.)