Always the bridesmaid, never the bride. This has long since been the status of vegetables. They are so often the overcooked afterthought to the 'meat and two veg' equation. They have been there, the silent wallflowers, while something meaty is always in their way, stealing the spotlight.

Well, not anymore.

Authors Pippa Cuthbert and Lindsay Cameron Wilson bring their culinary expertise to this often-overlooked but essential food category. This book offers a wide selection of dishes that will satisfy anyone who loves good, fresh food.

From main courses to side dishes, soups, salads, snacks and extras-these dishes will make your tastebuds pop, with something to please every palate:

Also included are tips on cooking vegetables, preventing spoilage, and storing.

The authors promise, "You won't be expected to have a commercial stove or turn asparagus juice into foam. No, this is hearty, honest cooking designed to please any palate.

"Finally, the vegetable is getting married."