Mario Batali's latest cookbook is organized by month, with an emphasis on what's in season. Despite the subtitle (Simple Family Meals) it includes a number of preparations that would make excellent special-occasion meals, including a Turkey Porchetta; Polpettona Ripiena, a stuffed meatloaf; Veal Shoulder Farsumagru; and Porcini-Rubbed Prime Rib. The recipes aren't terribly elaborate, however, so they won't take up large chunks of your time. There are also a number of pasta recipes that I'm planning to try, including one that pairs Italian sausage with kale and tomato sauce. But where this cookbook really shines is in the vegetable side dishes, including a vinegar- and herb-soaked carrot dish, served at room temperature; Romanesco drenched in a dressing of olives, capers, parsley, garlic and red pepper flakes; parsnips with horseradish and chives. Again, none of the preparations are time-consuming, but the flavors sound absolutely delicious. He rounds it out with some simple desserts. The one that I'm planning to try is apples baked with Gorgonzola and figs. ( )