Book, “Pimento Cheese: The Cookbook” by Perre Coleman Magness

50 recipes, from snacks to main dishes inspired by the classic Southern favorite.

No party, picnic, or tailgate is complete without the southern favorite that is taking the north by storm—pimento cheese. Now, the creator of popular blog The Runaway Spoon has written the definitive work on the joys of making and cooking with pimento cheese—and not just the kind you spread on crackers. You'll find recipes for spicing up the basic, no-frills version, but also recipes that incorporate those brilliant flavors into dishes for every time of day and special occasions.

With 50 recipes and full-color photographs throughout, you can start with a breakfast of Pimento Cheese Popovers stuffed with scrambled eggs, or plan a nice brunch served with Pimento Cheese Waffles with Pimento Syrup and Bacon. Invite the neighbors over for Pimento Shrimp and Cheddar Grits or Cheddar Gnudi with Pimento Romesco. And serve it all with some Pimento Cheese Green Beans on the side, or make Pimento Cheese Tomato Pie to bring to your next potluck.

Authoritative, creative, and amusing, and peppered with anecdotes and lots of useful hints and tips, Pimento Cheese explores the myriad ways to prepare this humble—and essential—Southern staple.