Sally Vaughan-Johnston is a professional chef, food writer and food stylist. This is her third collaboration with the ladies of Best of Bridge -- a stellar collection of recipes that will be treasured for years to come.

What is the Best of Bridge?

In 1975, at a weekend getaway, eight women friends had an idea: Since a consistent highlight of their decade-old bridge group was the food they prepared and enjoyed together, perhaps they should think about writing a cookbook. This spur-of- the-moment notion was the impetus for The Best of Bridge, which went on to become one of the most successful brands in Canadian publishing, with more than three million books sold.

Written in a welcoming style, the recipes are easy to execute, yet produce "gourmet" results. Their unique approach, which includes jokes to keep cooks smiling, has ensured a faithful following. The Best of Bridge recipes are staples at potlucks across the country, and the generation of children raised on them is now cooking for themselves. "We get lots of mail from people looking for specific books to give to their adult kids," the Ladies report. "They want to make dishes that were always served at family celebrations. Our recipes have become part of their domestic traditions."

As the Ladies would say, "You should have these books. We've tested, tasted and revised. We promise you'll love every recipe."