Sometimes I read reviews where the book was only given one star and I think to myself, could it really have been that bad! Well, I bought this book because I am a vegetarian, have been one since about the age of five, so it isn't like I don't know what I'm talking about. I was so excited when I brought it home. Wow! 1000 recipes! I looked in the index and the names of the dishes really did inspire me to believe they would be exquisite. They are the most bland tasting dishes I have EVER eaten in my life. Spices do exist (and I don't mean salt), anyone can throw a can of beans on some rice and call it black beans and rice. I highly recommend Molly Katzen, Moosewood, Laurel's Kitchen. Don't waste your money on this book. I couldn't even eat the meals after about 3 bites. What a waste.