The American household is shrinking, with nearly 60 percent of the population living alone or with just one other person. Most cook at least one meal a day at home, and yet most cookbooks and food articles operate in a “serves four” mode. That’s why I hope you’ll welcome this completely revised second edition of Serves One, filled with more than 120 appealing recipes plus tips on shopping, kitchen equipment and staples for solo cooking. The typical Serves One recipe calls for only 10 minutes of active prep time and many are all-in-one meals requiring minimal cleanup--main-course salads, simple stir-fries, fresh takes on pizza and pasta, savory soups and inventive sandwiches.

A meal for even the busiest days, Sizzling Shrimp with Garlic cooks in less than five minutes and can be eaten right out of the skillet, with chunks of bread to soak up the garlicky juices. Another night, you might sit down to savory Chicken and Olive Ragout or Chickpea and Tuna Salad. If you’re feeling under the weather or out of spirits, Soothing Tortellini-Broccolini Soup delivers on its name.

All of these recipes are designed to nourish the soul as well as the body. I believe strongly that taking time for a homemade meal is a way of pampering yourself. Freshly made foods taste so good and, when you use fresh produce and other wholesome ingredients, they’re better for you than other alternatives.

I think readers will be pleasantly surprised at the ease and speed of cooking for one. After all, there’s less of everything—smaller quantities of ingredients, less chopping and, quite often, shorter cooking times. Stock up on shelf-stable items such as canned beans, grains, and condiments so you can improvise a meal on the spur of the moment. But when it comes to perishables, it’s best to “think small,” buying only the fruit, veggies, and dairy products needed for the next few days.

I also recommend treating yourself to primo ingredients. You can splurge a little, affordably, when you’re cooking on a small scale. Take home a good steak, an exquisite cheese, beautiful microgreens. And, even though you’re using just a little, a really good olive oil or balsamic vinegar can lift your meal from ordinary to amazing.

Featured Recipes: Sizzling Shrimp with Garlic
                                  Soothing Tortellini-Broccolini Soup