Cookbooks with a tight focus and manageable size can be easy to snuggle up to. Here are some smaller books that would make lovely holiday gifts. Subjects vary but each book boasts beautiful photos and imaginative recipes. We also offer two suggestions (one inexpensive, one fancy) to wrap them with. These books are sold at (or can be ordered from) area booksellers; we also found all online.
“Antipasti: Fabulous Appetizers and Small Plates,” by Joyce Goldstein (Chronicle, $19.95)
What it is: A Mediterranean cooking expert offers a bounty of authentic, mouthwatering appetizers from Italy.
Wrap it with: a loaf of Italian bread or high-quality extra-virgin olive oil.
“Chocolate & Vanilla,” by Gale Gand (Clarkson Potter, $22.50)
What it is: The Chicago pastry chef/restaurateur divides your time between chocolate and vanilla desserts.
Wrap it with: a package of Dutch processed cocoa or vanilla beans.
“The Farmstead Egg Cookbook,” by Terry Golson (St. Martin’s Press, $16.95)
What it is: A chef who raises hens in her suburban back yard puts those eggs to work in recipes for every course.
Wrap it with: adozen organic eggs or set of four egg cups.
“Beautiful Breads & Fabulous Fillings: The Best Sandwiches in America,” by Margaux Sky (Rutledge Hill Press, $24.99)
What it is: Chicago native-turned-California sandwich queen shares imaginative recipes, including the breads, the spreads and more.
Wrap it with: a cutting board or 1-pound wedge of imported cheese.
“Truffles: 50 Deliciously Decadent Homemade Chocolate Treats,” by Dede Wilson (Harvard Common Press, $12.95)
What it is: Learn to make a parade of chocolate confections, easy to advanced, and turn your home into a candy emporium.
Wrap it with: a bar of premium dark chocolate or a digital candy thermometer.
