The title of this cookbook was clever and intriguing enough on its own to warrant further investigation. After spotting the author, I was compelled to dig deeper. Author Jean Anderson is a former editor for Ladies Home Journal and respected cookbook author with an impressive list of credits. Of particular note, she co-authored of one of the best general reference cookbooks available, "The New Doubleday Cookbook."

In "Dinners in a Dish or a Dash," Anderson revisits a popular Ladies Home Journal feature, "Shelf Magic," but updates the concept to take advantage of today's fresher market offerings. The recipes still utilize some canned foods, but now the emphasis is on fresh, frozen and deli ingredients rather than the canned peas and processed cheese casseroles of yore. The collection includes meals that can be made quickly in one dish or pot, from salads to stews. And yes, casseroles are still alive and kicking.

Getting into busy cook mode will take some initial preparation, of course. You'll find extensive listings of recommended pantry basics including canned and bottled goods, dry foods, refrigerator and freezer items, and make-ahead staples, along with storage tips.

Those who have relegated their microwave ovens to the lonely duty of reheating leftovers may be interested in putting it to real use as a time-saving meal-machine with the special microwave meal section. The author recognizes the limitations of the microwave and provides recipes that capitalize on its strengths for casseroles, soups, and stews.

Helpful tips and notes pepper the recipe pages, and each of the 275 recipes is introduced with anecdotal comments and information. Many of the recipes include quite a number of ingredients, but the preparation instructions are quick and easy, often with variations for different main ingredients to suit different tastes.

This is one cookbook that deserves a place on the bookshelf of any cook who wants to make tasty meals in minutes. And who doesn't?