From the common to the somewhat obscure -- everyone is looking to incorporate more leafy greens into their diets.

This comprehensive book is a reflection of the groundswell of enthusiasm there is out there for healthy eating -- leafy greens in particular. Kale led the charge and now consumers are looking for new alternatives to these inexpensive, nutritious and versatile ingredients.

Dozens of varieties of leafy green (67 to be exact) are featured, each with a photograph for easy identification -- from popular ones like spinach, to the trendy such as kale and collards, to the obscure like mizuna or purslane, which may only be familiar to foragers, avid gardeners or world travelers. But the world is getting smaller every day and our grocery store selection larger, so it's probably just a matter of time before you see these at your local grocers.

All the greens are listed alphabetically, and each listing contains:

• Scientific and alternate names, and types
• Historical information including fascinating folk remedies
• Nutritional information as well as tasting notes
• Recipes that correspond to the particular green
• How to buy, store, prepare and cook the green
• Measures & substitutions, equivalents
• Intriguing and entertaining sidebar boxes.

Susan has created 250 outstanding vegan recipes -- a wide and wonderful variety which can be enjoyed as main dishes, sides and even breakfast. Smoothies are the perfect way to incorporate more greens into your diet. The humble Brussels sprout is elevated to a whole new level in Brussels and Yukon Hash, dandelion is dandy in Penne Boscaiola and Napa simply shines in Grilled Kimcheese Sandwiches. Explore greens from other parts of the world that are now grown in North America -- Yu Choy in Yu Choy with Saucy Shiitakes and Baby Corn, or taro leaves that perfectly complete the recipe for West Indies Pepper Pot Soup.

So stretch beyond your typical cooking routine and tap into a healthier, more interesting way of eating by simply incorporating more greens into your kitchen.

Susan Sampson is a food writer based in Toronto. Susan was born in Budapest, grew up in Toronto's "Goulash Archipelago" and worked for three decades as a newspaper journalist. In the Toronto Star's Test Kitchen, she stirred the pot as an editor, columnist, news and feature writer, recipe tester and product reviewer. Susan was given a Cordon d'Or -- Gold Ribbon International Culinary Academy Award for 12,167 Kitchen and Cooking Secrets. She is also the author of The Complete Leafy Greens Cookbook.

Susan Sampson's profile page

Since Nana said you should eat your greens, then this is the book to begin with: 67 greens include the well-known plus sorrel, grape leaves, perilla, turnip greens, and more... Beverages and health drinks are covered too... A good collection.

Gothic Epicures, Food and Drink Books in Review