Desperation Dinners!

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Summary: A 5 o'clock Life-Saver for busy moms
Review: I have three children aged 5 and under. This has been the one book that has absolutely revolutionized my life in the kitchen and out. I do not mind to cook at all, it is just the planning that drives me crazy! This book has guided me in stocking my pantry with the necessary foods so at 5 o'clock I can glance through "Desperation Dinners" and have at least 5 dinners that are easily prepared in 20 minutes, or in my case about 30 minutes because there is always someone that needs juice, a potty trip or just extra love during the cooking process! I recommend it to anyone that needs a break in the kitchen. I have made 10-15 different recipes and have not been disappointed yet.

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Summary: A busy mom/student/employee from Houston, Texas
Review: My busy schedule doesn't allow me enough time in the kitchen to make fabulous meals, or so I thought. This book has great meals people really eat It is quick and it tastes great. I now plan my meals weekly from this book!

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Summary: Quick and easy recipes, true- but they taste good, too!
Review: I have never been accused of being a cook. I'm not necessarily opposed to the idea, but I've just always been inept at making things taste like I think they should. "Desperation Dinners!" (which I received from my husband-- hmm, was that a hint?) has given me renewed confidence. The simplicity and 20 minute preparation times are wonderful assets but my greatest thrill has come from actually being really pleased with the flavor of so many of the dishes. I recommend this book to not only busy people but anyone who has become intimidated by other cookbooks because of a "fear of failure."

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Summary: WHAT A GREAT DISCOVERY ...
Review: These are really tasty meals you can get on the table in 20 minutes or less using basic staples ... makes a simple dinner easy. Had the book 3 days, made 3 different things ... all got a "10" ... so easy to get rave reviews

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Summary: Cook Great Meals in 20 Minutes or Less!
Review: I have a confession to make; I love cookbooks. They constantly give me inspiration and great ideas on what to make for special occasions. "Desperation Dinners" is different. It is a book that you can use everyday. Most recipes are a meal unto themselves, the rest only need bread or a side dish to round them out. Not only are the recipes excellent and diverse -- French Cassoulet, Individual Meat Loaves, Corn Chowder, and Fresh Summer Tomato Sauce for example -- they are all complete in 20 minutes or less.This time includes the chopping, dicing, slicing, and opening of cans. None of the recipes require special gadgets or appliances and most can be made on the burner with one pan. The authors are both working mothers who write a column together every week called...you guessed it... "Desperation Dinners!" They are busy just like you and me, and their solutions to the "What's for Dinner?' question are incredibly delicious.

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Summary: A winner for busy people
Review: I'm late to this cookbook, as it's been out for some time. I think I was put off by the "Desperation" in the title--desperation and food together does not appeal. Title aside, this is a wonderful cookbook that IS quick. It's a security blanket for me--to have a cookbook with decent meals that I can prepare in 20 mins or so. I use fresh ginger, garlic, etc. instead of the bottled they suggest, but I think it's worth it in taste and it doesn't take much extra time for me. Recipes I have enjoyed include Jamaican macaroni, Deceptively simple fish, Real-life lasagna, pepperonata with sausage, BBQ shrimp on spicy rice, and the black bean soup. My life is not so rushed that I would ever resort to using canned chicken in a recipe (there aren't many of these, and you can always substitute). I'd also recommend going for low-salt varieties of canned tomatoes, for example, as a can of diced tomatoes and a can of chicken broth can really ratchet up the salt content of some of these recipes. Highly recommended for those who enjoy having a nice meal, but are short on time. I use this cookbook all the time, and I have a shelf full of cookbooks. It's a winner.

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Summary: My Most Used Cookbook
Review: I've never felt compelled to write a review on Amazon, but this book is worth it. Of my massive collection of cookbooks at home, this one is by far the most used. I've made at least 20 of the recipes, and none of them has failed me. My brother in law told me that the pasta dish I made from this book tasted like "restaurant food." A friend from work asked me for so many recipes (mostly after peering over my lunch containers) that she finally ordered the book. My step mom and I both cook from this book frequently and report back to each other on which recipes to try next. I've recommended this book to countless people, and everyone has loved it. The recipes are incredibly fast and they all taste great. If you're going to invest in a quick cooking book, make it this one!

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Summary: Good and good tasting Recipes quick!
Review: My neighbor gave me this book when she was moving a couple of years ago and I moved shortly after so it satayed packed away in a box along with several other cook books until just recently. Tiring of stopping for fast food or making the same quick meals like spaghetti or tacos, I figured I'd give this one a whirl.

I've typically found that in many of these books that promises quick, good meals in 30 minutes or whatever, that it generally takes you longer. I don't know whether the authors are just cooking under optimal conditions or I'm just slow. I suspect it's a bit of both. Still even at 40 minutes or so, Beverly Mills and Alica Ross whip up some very hearty meals always with ingredients that are either in your pantry or easily found at the grocery store. No scouring exotic gourmet food stores with this book.

The book is arranged by section starting with soups, then moving on to stews, Skillet meals, salads, Entrees, Veggies, etc...All very well formatted although unfortunately no color photography. The recipes range from typical American fare like hamburgers and baked chicken to Asian, Mexican, and even Caribbean dishes. My family really enjoyed the chicken Fingers Parmesan, easily made with refrigerated or frozen chicken fingers. I also love the Potato corn chowder that was very rib sticking on a cold day. The selection of salads is very strong too with some excellent seafood, pasta, and traditional salads.

Desperation Dinners is a solid cookbook. It's the kind you will probably find a half dozen receipes you really like and will make over and over again.

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Summary: tasting easy recipes for the non-cooker
Review: This is my favorite cookbook.This book helps me quickly prepare dinner - mealtimes are not a hassle, nor difficult! I make most of our dinners from this book - the meals are delicious and healthy. Highly recommended for busy families - this book is wonderful.This book is truly a gift to share with others. Just like my new beverage of choice that replaced my morning brew. Its called s oyfee and taste so wonderful with no caffeine or acids. Organic and made from soya! Bye bye acid stomach and hello healthy tummy! Google it under "acid free coffee"

My husband and I have each lost about 10 pounds without even trying (and that's in spite of eating desserts on occasion, too). Most of all, we are less frantic, and have more time to relax and enjoy being with our kids. OH, and the food is great!


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Summary: Great cookbook!!!!
Review: Before we had a second child I rarely cooked.Another child changed all that.A friend w/5 kids suggested this cookbook to me.I can't say enough good things about it.Have given several of these cookbooks as presents.My family likes these recipes even my picky 11 yo daughter.Plus the recipes are relatively healthy!!!!