Comments: Honestly, who hasn't written a quick-and-easy-cookbook? Bookstore shelves are full of them. But Cat Cora has the chops – as combination Iron Chef and mom, she knows what it takes to produce real flavor fast.

The book is divided into four sections – fast, easy, fun (intended to get everyone working together), and phenomenal – each with its own appetizers, soups, salads, main dishes, sides, and desserts. Recipes in the fast chapter include Spicy Chicken and Peach Stir-Fry, Creamy Fettuccine with Sausage, and Chocolate Brownie Cupcakes; in the easy chapter, Watermelon Gazpacho, Thai Chicken Salad, and White Cheddar Corn Bread; in the fun chapter, Sunday Cheesesteak Sandwiches, Crispy "Fried" (baked) Chicken, and Lemonade Cookies; and in the phenomenal chapter, Mango Margaritas, Pomegranate-Glazed Cornish Hens with Wild Rice, and Italian Cream Cake.

Reflecting Cora's background and training, there are Greek recipes, Mississippi recipes, French, Italian, and other American recipes, and a hodge-podge of other regions and styles represented.

Cora says her book is all about flexibility. You should be able to use what you've got on hand without being afraid to substitute, learn how to cut down on cooking steps, and combine only a few ingredients in inventive ways, whether you're just trying to get dinner on the table or entertain guests.