You don’t even have to open up Marblespoon Tried & True to realize that Vera Newman’s talents extend far beyond the kitchen.

The cover art alone drives home a simple theme that echoes throughout the entire volume:  take good food, amp up the visuals with striking accessories, and poof! your entire meal is instantly elevated.  But even as Vera, a professional floral arranger and party planner, displays her tablescaping talents in this third book in the Marblespoon series, she believes strongly that impressive meals don’t need to be complicated.

“I really try to think about the lifestyle of a Jewish mother” explains Vera, whose four kids range in age from three to eleven.  “Some of us work full time. Some of us have a bunch of kids at home. We’re always carpooling and running to doctors’ appointments and dinner has to happen every night.”

Born and bred in Panama, Vera is a Detroit resident who has her finger on the pulse of what busy moms want – food that is basic, but not too basic, a little out of the box, but not too out of the box.  It’s a fine balance, but Vera makes it work, and with 150 new recipes in Marblespoon III, there are plenty of options, from simpler weekday fare to Yom Tov delicacies.

Particularly intriguing in this book are four pages of DIY recipes, featuring items that can make or break a dish, but that cooks may not normally stock or have access to.  Want to make fettuccine alfredo on a Motzei Shabbos but you don’t have heavy cream in the house? No worries, there’s a recipe here to make your own using just milk and butter, as well as others for multiple sauces, spice blends, buttermilk, and caramel, among others. It isn’t just that sometimes you just can’t get to the supermarket, notes Vera. For people who live out of town, kosher ponzu sauce or lemon pepper seasoning aren’t necessarily available in local stores.

Collecting pretty serving pieces isn’t your thing? Fear not – the recipes in Marblespoon III all have visual appeal on their own.

“When I think about a recipe, I try to think what it will look like,” says Vera. “I don’t want brown foods – I want colors and herbs, pretty things.”

Vera is also quick to note that while Marblespoon III is filled with pictures of the beautiful tableware that she loves to collect, home cooks can feel free to plate things in whatever way works best for them.

“Those presentations only happen when we have company,” says Vera.  “Most days we are simple and use paper plates. The pictures here are meant to inspire, and not to make anyone feel pressured.”

The 150 new recipes here span the gamut, and there are plenty of fish and dairy (and even meat!!) recipes that are perfect for Shavuos. (Miso-glazed sea bass, garlic bread focaccia, green apple fennel salad, London broil tacos, and knafeh trifle, if you want to know a few of my faves.)  With Yom Tov just days away and so many fabulous options, this latest member of the Marblespoon series is just what you’re looking for – tried and true dishes that everyone at your table will love.

I’m so excited to share three amazing recipes with you all — perfect for Shavuos and delicious any time of year!

Berry Cheesecake Crumb Cups Recipe

Crustless Cheesy Vegetable Quiche Recipe

Macadamia-Crusted Salmon Recipe

You can buy Vera’s new book, Marblespoon Tried and True, here!