From a traditional family dinner to an elegant supper party, from a picnic or barbecue to a festive brunch--here at last is a cookbook that can help you plan the right meal for every occasion.

No need to spend hours searching for the ideal recipe--this book has them all. Whether it's hearty, traditional fare like glazed ham or sweet and sour meatballs, or international dishes such as beef Brazilian style, Russian salmon pie, or Moroccan jellied chicken, you'll find them here. The most popular recipes, combining the best of old and new, plain and fancy, familiar and exotic, are gathered between the covers of this book to offer you the widest possible variety.

Here are soups and appetizers, poultry and game, meat dishes, vegetables and salads, rice and pasta. What would you say to chilled avocado soup, taramasalata, Malaysian dindings duck, braised celery with peas, or eggplant and leek risotto? If you're planning a vegetarian meal, try the recipes for vegetable lasagna or minted tomato ratatouille. For an elegant barbecue, try seafood kabobs instead of hamburgers. Or how about asparagus or cider fondue for that Saturday night party?

If you're in a hurry, you'll find recipes for quick salads, sandwiches and omelets. There are also microwave recipes to help you achieve pleasing results in the shortest possible time.

Last but not least, there are dozens of recipes for mouth-watering desserts--from traditional rice pudding to iced Camembert tart, black currant and ginger cheesecake, or strawberry cream sorbet.

Clear, concise instructions and color photographs throughout provide the perfect guide. Whether you love cooking or simply regard it as a daily necessity, you will find this book an invaluable kitchen companion.