Cooking for One: Scaled Recipes, No-Waste Solutions, and Time-Saving Tips

America's Test Kitchen presents a practical guide for solo diners seeking to eliminate food waste and simplify meal preparation. The volume contains over one hundred sixty recipes designed specifically for single servings, ensuring that ingredients are used efficiently without leaving half-empty jars or unused produce in the refrigerator. The text addresses the unique challenges of cooking alone, such as avoiding repetitive leftovers and managing limited pantry space. Each recipe includes a Kitchen Improv section to help readers substitute ingredients based on what is currently available. Icons clearly mark dishes that rely entirely on pantry staples or those that yield two servings for easy repurposing. The book emphasizes flexibility, allowing cooks to improvise flavors while maintaining the integrity of the dish. It also highlights one-pan dinners like Sheet Pan Sausages with Sweet Potatoes and Broccoli Rabe, which reduce cleanup time significantly. This collection suits individuals who want to cook nutritious meals without the burden of scaling down large batches or dealing with complex ingredient lists. It is less useful for those seeking elaborate multi-course dining experiences or recipes intended for large gatherings. The approach remains grounded in American home cooking traditions, focusing on accessible techniques and everyday ingredients like garam masala and cilantro.