Start with an exciting plot, mix in lively illustrations, and top it all off with the delicious recipe. That’s the formula for these fresh foodie reads.

The barefoot Contessa created the potato latkes recipe in Goodnight Bubbala, a parody of Goodnight Moon that features a surprise family party at bedtime. “Ina tested the latkes at least 12 different ways,” says author Sheryl Haft. “The result was perfect: Creamy and textured on the inside with shreds of potato on the outside.” The book features a Yiddish glossary, and the illustrations, by Jill Weber, are another treat: “She depicts the rabbit family with exuberance, warmth, and humor,” Says Haft.