THERE ARE FEW THINGS in this world more enjoyable than sitting down to a relaxed, uncomplicated meal with friends. And no one helps you do it better than Lee Bailey.
Beginning with his award-winning Country Weekends, Lee’s been sharing great ideas on how to cook and entertain with style—and a minimum of fuss. Now there’s Lee Bailey's Cooking for Friends, a new collection of recipes and menus that are all particular favorites of Lee’s and bound to become favorites of yours.
Lee loves renting houses with a group of pals, so it makes perfect sense to find him cooking for friends everywhere. He’s at home in New York, but he also takes this show on the road to some of his favorite vacation spots. He dubs this “vagabond cooking,” and what’s interesting about it is that by adapting his recipes to local ingredients, he’s come up with variations even more pleasing than the “originals.”
While staying on the Greek Isles, Lee put a spin on his classic recipe for nut-coated fish—using pistachios instead of pecans. Limes on Key West led to Avocados with Lime Vinaigrette and Lime Ice Cream. And the French flavor of basics available on St. Barth’s were inspiration for Crème Fraiche Pancakes with Hazelnut Honey Butter.
Lee’s also been experimenting with cuts of meat that are low in fat, quickly cooked, and easily served. His variations on roasted tenderloins—served with a do-ahead vegetable and followed by salad and dessert—make tasty and imaginative menus. As for desserts, Lee Bailey takes no prisoners. Think of Coconut Flan. White Chocolate Ice Cream. Brown Sugar Pie with Berry Sauce. And much more.

Of course, there’s a menu for holidays—the best time for entertaining friends. Lee’s a traditionalist, and he cooks up a classic: Roast Turkey with Pan Gravy, Corn Bread Stuffing, Sweet Squash Casserole, Tiny Green Peas with Dill Butter, and Cranberry, Orange, and Raisin Sauce.
All in all, Cooking for Friends is a fresh and up-to- date approach to eating and entertaining. What could be better—it’s the new Lee Bailey for the ’90s!
LEE BAILEY is the author of nine best-selling books about food and entertaining. He writes monthly columns for Food & Wine and USA Weekend, and he also contributes articles to other major magazines. He lives in New York City and Miami.