Two’s Company, by Bev Bennett (Barron’s: $14.95, 195 pp., illustrated.)

Author Bennett astutely points out that in today’s society the majority of people dine alone or in pairs, yet “you’d scarcely know it, to judge by the innumerable cookbooks with recipes designed to serve four, six, eight or the entire block.” “Two’s Company” is her answer to cooking for one or two with a touch of simple elegance.

The book’s recipes are arranged seasonally to take advantage of fresh ingredients, with each entree accompanied by a salad, vegetable or starch. Most can be prepared in an hour or less (a boon for those who work). The introduction includes a list of kitchen items the author finds most useful and some tips for following the recipes.