Like the first River Cafe Easy cookbook (also lovely), there's not much to read, because the recipes are so short and straightforward. Such simplicity combined with full-page photography makes one want to whip up something like taglierini with clam and zucchini at a moment’s notice.

London River Cafe is evidently a great place to eat and a favorite of Gywneth Paltrow! Didn't go there though...

If I had to own only one cookbook, this would be it. A bit of a bold statement, I know, but not only are the recipes wonderful, but they are simple, all about the ingredients and archetypes of Italian cooking. Oh and the photos are superb.