The Hostess Handbook: A Modern Guide to Entertaining

Zizka (Cook Color) has authored a lovely, all-encompassing volume on how to be a great host while still enjoying the party. In each chapter, Zizka supplies anywhere from eight to 18 recipes for inspiration, from party snacks to desserts. Among the offerings are crispy scallion pancakes with a dipping sauce trio, toothpick gnocchi with oregano breadcrumbs, vegetarian nachos, brisket and harissa-buttered carrots, and marbled matcha snickerdoodles. There are both meat and vegetarian selections, and cocktail recipes include instructions for nonalcoholic versions. Most of the recipes are accompanied by color photographs. Additional features of the book include lists of party supplies, a hosting checklist, and a guide to cleaning up after the party. Readers will appreciate Zizka’s practical approach to hosting; for instance, she advises to use a tablecloth if available—but no big deal if the tabletop goes naked. This relaxed ethos also extends to things like table-setting, seating charts, and lighting.