Castro Valley Library

The holiday season is here!  It’s full steam ahead with all of the shopping, entertaining and cooking so many of us do during such a busy time of year.  For some of us (like the young lady I helped at the information desk the other day), it’s our first time hosting the family’s holiday bash.  Others are “old hands” at this holiday entertaining thing, but they want new recipes for their upcoming parties.

The cookbook section in our library is one of the most heavily used sections.  Our cookbooks are shelved starting in the 641.5 call number range in the adult, children’s and new books areas.  Feel free to browse – and of course if you can’t find exactly what you need, ask a librarian at the information desk.  We’re always happy to help.

To get you started here are some great Holiday Cooking titles for you to check out.  Clicking any of the pictures will bring you to the library’s catalog entry.

Do you yearn for a holiday meal that’s not the typical turkey or ham?  Daisy’s Holiday Cooking gives your menu a Latin spin, and includes tips for easy entertaining.  (641.598 MARTINEZ)

This children’s cookbook talks a little bit about different holiday traditions around the world, basic kitchen safety, cooking tips, and a glossary.  Most recipes include a preface that tells budding young cooks about the holiday that particular recipe celebrates.  Countries and regions represented include Italy, Africa, Poland, Mexico, Japan, Vietnam, Russia and more. (J641.568 HOLIDAY)

Looking at the recipes in this book is making me hungry!  Menus for easy “down home” cooking are included for every month of the year.  Do you need ideas for Super Bowl Sunday?  Or maybe a new baby is coming home?  The Neely’s have ideas for you! (642.4 NEELY)

The editors of American Profile Magazine asked their readers to submit their favorite holiday recipes.  More than 250 cherished recipes and memories are included in this book.  (641.568 HOMETOWN)