I have two World Community Cook Books that I think everyone would benefit by using.  The books were commissioned by Mennonite Central Committee to promote global understanding.  Simply in Season, (Lind & Hockman-Wert) promotes understanding of how the food choices we make affect our lives, the lives of the farmer /producers and the lives of others. Extending the Table  (Schlabach) promotes global understanding and celebrates the variety of world cultures.  Individuals share personal stories of those living in other cultures that will enlighten you about the realities of life and enrich your understanding of world cultures.  Both of these books are in the style of Less with More; a book/lifestyle that recommends how to utilize what we have to best advantage.

Simply in Season lists produce available by season and shares information about each fruit and vegetable: Description, Selection, Storage and Handling, Preparation, Serving Suggestions, and Nutrients.  Additionally the book features recipes utilizing the produce season by season.  This is a great reference especially for those fruits and veggies that you are unfamiliar with.

A recipe from Simply in Season, the Salad section:

Belizean Potato Salad, serves 6

Cook in salted water, then cool:

2 c potatoes, peeled and diced

1 c carrots, sliced

1 c peas

Combine with:

1 c cabbage, thinly sliced

1 c onion, diced

1 c mayo (or slightly less)

salt and pepper.

Chill several hours and serve on bed of lettuce garnished with parsley.

From Extending the Table, beverage section:

Tropical Fruit Shake, serves 4-5

Fill blender 2/3 full with any combination of fruit

strawberries, bananas, oranges, cantaloupe, papaya, peaches, pineapple, mangos, berries, watermelon, tomatoes and avacadoes

Add water to cover (or slightly less) and blend.

Add

several ice cubes

sugar to taste

lemon or lime juice to taste (optional)

Blend

Variation:  Add 1 1/2 c fruit and 3 cups milk, omit lemon juice and ice and blend till creamy.

Note:  In many parts of Latin America the blender is a sought-after household appliance.  It quickly liquefies fruits that people can then sell to their neighbors on hot days.  It also simplifies the task of pureeing cooked beans.