Joy of Melluci

Maybe a week after I decided that what I really need is a good basic cookbook like The Joy of Cooking to round out my pretty vegan specific collection, I received in the mail a copy of I Loved, I Lost, I Made Spaghetti by Guilia Melucci from our good friends at Hachette.

What can I say? My cookbook had arrived! Pancakes (check!), Eggplant Parmigiana (check!), Basic Frittata for an easy weeknight meal (check!).

Not only are Ms. Melucci’s tales of dating in NYC amusing and pretty glamorous, she weaves the most amazing and simple recipes with the stories (similar to the wonderful movie “Waitress” where the main character makes different pies based on her life) explaining how the dish fits the (ahem) guest and her feelings toward him.

Her tales of dating and mating and then dating again succeed where so many less talented writers have failed. Her details are specific. She seems a realist, but a happy one. She isn’t (too) hung up about being 40 and still single. One of the most memorable moments has her wondering why God has given her such sound domestic skills and such a lovely home but no one to share them with.

I’m convinced this book will be a sensation when it comes out in April.

How could it not? After such a dismal winter in the worst economy most of us can recall, Melucci will seduce every reader with her wit, her warmth, and yes of course, the food glorious food.

--Cynthia