Of Course It’s Good! Aggressively Delicious Meals Anyone Can Make and Everyone Will Love
Jessica Secrest. Page Street, $26.99 (176p) ISBN 979-8-89003-397-0
“I’m in the trenches of daily cooking for the people who live under my roof.... We need meals that are quick, easy, affordable,” writes Secrest, the home cook behind the TikTok account @applesauceandadhd, in her fun debut collection of unfussy weeknight crowd-pleasers. Secrest went viral for her self-described “aggressive tutorials” and attempts to maintain her signature sassy-to-belligerent tone in print via excessive italicization, all caps, and plenty of cursing. The comic effect doesn’t entirely translate, however, and may alienate those who aren’t already fans. Still, the recipes themselves are quick, flavorful, and consciously beginner chef– and child taste bud–friendly. “Fast and Furious” fare promises meals ready in 30 minutes or less, including sloppy joe fries and “lazy lasagna” made by layering frozen ravioli. The “Meaty Mayhem” chapter offers classics like pulled pork, while “Veggie Vendetta” features side dishes such as honey garlic carrots. “Pantry Raid” is full of clever suggestions for using up pantry staples, while the most out-there section, “Potato Tot Take-Down,” serves up six meals made with tater tots, including “taco tot bowls.” Throughout, Secrest offers judgement-free ideas for store-bought substitutions and tips for how to freeze and stretch dishes over multiple meals. Busy home chefs will be inspired. (Jan.)
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Reviewed on: 12/06/2025
Genre: Lifestyle

