Mysteries Cook Up Intrigue Along With Food

They’re called culinary mysteries. Described as a cross between Mary Higgins Clark and Betty Crocker, these crime books weave delightful stories of a caterer named Goldy Bear caught in the middle of suspense and drama.

Written by Diane Mott Davidson, the mysteries-cum-cookbooks are entertainingly titled “Catering to Nobody,” “Dying for Chocolate,” “The Cereal Murders,” and the latest, “The Last Suppers.” Davidson is working on her next book, “Killer Pancakes.”

Goldy seems to spend most of her time in the kitchen planning picnics, brunches and dinners. She solves mysteries while orchestrating mouthwatering meals.

A handful of delectable recipes are intermingled with the stories, such as Lethal Layers, Goldilocks’ Gourmet Spinach Soup and Monster Cinnamon Rolls. You’ll be tempted to try the recipes as soon as you finish the chapter.

When you’re done, of course, you’ll have to figure out which bookcase the books belong in: the living room, or the kitchen?

Here’s a guacamole salad recipe adapted from “Dying For Chocolate.” You won’t have to watch the clock on this one if you use packaged lettuce and pre-shredded cheeses. It’s served up pronto, and your family won’t leave one bit of evidence behind in their bowls.

It’s elementary, my dear Watsons!

Schulz’s Guacamole Salad

Adapted from “Dying for Chocolate” (Bantam Books).

Salad:

1 package shredded lettuce mix

1/4 cup shredded nonfat Cheddar cheese

1/4 cup shredded low-fat Monterey Jack cheese

1/2 cup chopped onions

8 cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup crushed corn chips

Dressing:

1 avocado, peeled, pitted, and mashed

1 tablespoon fresh or bottled lemon juice

1/2 cup nonfat sour cream

1/2 cup corn oil

1 tablespoon picante sauce

Combine salad ingredients except for corn chips.

Combine all ingredients for the dressing and mix well. Toss salad with dressing and sprinkle top with crushed chips.

Yield: 4 to 6 servings.

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