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By JEFF HOUCK

jhouck@tampatrib.com

Published: March 1, 2009

"Almost Meatless," by Joy Manning and Tara Mataraza Desmond (Ten Speed Press, $22.50)

Almost meatless? Isn't that sort of like being almost pregnant? The concept here: Meat is used as a complement to the dish, not the cornerstone. That way the dish is healthier for you and, um, better for the planet. (Cue the crickets chirping.) Still, the recipes look good enough for carnivores to enjoy as well. The Corn and Cod Cakes appear mighty delicious, as do the Fish, Bean and Avocado Tacos. Probably could have used some bacon on them, though.

"Petit Appetit," by Lisa Barnes (Perigee, $17.95)

Have you seen what your kids are eating at their friends' parties? Odds are the stuff they're chomping on between repetitions of Pin the Tail on the Non-Offensive Animal has enough salt, sugar and carbs to choke a donkey. This book helps parents steer the gatherings back to Healthytown with snacks, drinks and party fare that should keep the younglings happy, healthy and well-fed. The bookworms will love the Lemony Snicket Sauce. The Baby Bundt Cakes are a great idea, giving each kid his or her own delicacy. Come to think of it, why didn't our mom do this for us? (Cue the woeful, loss-choked sobbing.)

"Cindy Pawlcyn's Appetizers," by Cindy Pawlcyn (Ten Speed Press, $15.95)

Who is this Cindy Pawlcyn and why should we be eating her appetizers? She's a James Beard Award-winning cookbook author who pioneered wine country cuisine. This guide to apps before entrees is a feast for the eyes - we almost licked the page with the Duck, Olive and Fig Skewers. But it's also mighty handy, printed with a page-at-a-time spiral binder that stands upright while you cook. (Cue the deep-rooted regret at not having thought of it first.)

Jeff Houck

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