Potlucks tend to be a love it or hate it experience for most people. (At my old temple, we used to have a monthly potluck which I enjoyed, but there were always a pack of complainers!) Creating different recipes for the same group can definitely be challenging and if you’re looking for something new, The Third Thursday Community Potluck Cookbook is worth a look.

Written by Nashville caterer and blogger, Nancy Vienneau, it’s chockfull of seasonal favorites. There is a southern slant to the book and many of the recipes will have to be adapted for the Jewish kitchen, but I did like the overall feel. Encouraging cooks to use in-season ingredients and make the most of their garden’s bounty is a great idea.

Nancy’s group is casual and it includes a diverse group of attendees who’ve been coming together for five years. The only requirement is to have a love of food and friends and be willing to share. The recipes are fresh and flavorful, with an emphasis on whole foods—not the mixes, boxes, or canned soup that most potluck casseroles are comprised of. It’s much more upscale than a potluck is expected to be, which is a refreshing change!

My favorites were the desserts (what else is new, right?) I found the Brown Butter Honey Cake interesting. Made with multiple dairy products, it’s so different from what I consider a honey cake to be. I’m used to the the classic, parve treats found in Jewish cuisine.

In addition to the sweets, there were good ideas for salads and something called black raspberry chicken that I’d really like to make when the barbeque season returns. I did skip over a bunch of pork dishes, but that’s to be expected with any southern cookbook. (Obviously, I knew what was inside; there’s a huge ham on the book’s cover!)

Most pages include full color photos which is a big plus. If I see a visual, I’m much more likely to try it. In addition to the recipes, there are tips for creating food gifts such as jams, sugars, and baked goods.

I don’t think The Third Thursday Community Potluck Cookbook will ever become a staple in my kitchen, but it was a fun, fast read that I enjoyed, and would definitely help anyone who’s in a potluck rut. I give the contents 3 out of 5 stars and the title 1 star (too wordy and not eye catching).

I received a complimentary copy from Book Look Bloggers in exchange for my honest review.