Free Pasta, Risotto, and Rice by Robin Miller

Acknowledgments
    Creating a cookbook involves a lot of people, and I pray that I’ve covered everyone. Bonnie Tandy Leblang, my talented and savvy agent and manager, I’d never forget to thank you because you hold my hand through every process, book and otherwise. Thanks for introducing me to Andrews McMeel Publishing, and for encouraging me to join the AMP family (one you already knew well). It’s one of the best moves I’ve made. I also love brainstorming with you, because you consistently offer insight and wit. Thanks for helping me turn this cookbook into something I can be deeply proud of. Kirsty Melville, president and publisher, from the moment we first spoke, I knew I was in excellent hands. Your talented staff at AMP turned my recipes into one beautiful piece of work. Jean Lucas, my editor, there must be a better word I can use to describe you (beyond simply “editor”). Superhero? That’s what you were to me. What I especially loved about working with you was that you included me in every decision and detail, no matter how minuscule. And I loved picking your kids up from school; seeing another mom race all over town made my crazy life seem normal. Ben Pieper, my awesome photographer, what fun it was to work with you. The cover shot and photos throughout the book are delectable, thanks to your expertise behind the lens. Trina Kahl, food stylist extraordinaire, jaws are about to drop everywhere. Your stunning food styling will cause palates to quiver with excitement. The food is pure art, and you have a gift. Daniel Trefz, assistant food stylist, the pictures speak for themselves. Thank you for helping to make my food look mouthwatering. Julie Barnes, art director, you’re a joy to work with, you’ve got a spring in your step, and I cherish your creative contribution to this dazzling book. Holly Ogden, designer, I love the pages; your sense of style made this cookbook clean and classic and exactly what I was hoping for. Sarah Dilks, thank you for the beautiful job you did with hair and makeup; natural and nice, and perfect for a cookbook. I’d also like to thank John Carroll, Carol Coe, and Dave Shaw for your efforts—I believe this is my best book ever, thanks to all of you.
    Joanne Hayes, you deserve a gold medal for analyzing nutrition for these 500 recipes (actually more than 500, counting those we tweaked). Although we communicated only through e-mail, I could tell that you were always smiling. You just have that vibe.
    Mom and Dad, thanks for supporting every new project I pursue. Mom, my passion for cooking and sharing food with family and friends comes from you. The best conversations happen over a meal, no doubt. Dad, you’re my role model for drive and enthusiasm, and your tireless encouragement keeps me going through thick and thin.
    To my three boys at home, Darrin, Kyle, and Luke (and Hank, if you count the puppy), thanks for tasting countless creations, giving feedback, and keeping your elbows off the table. Kyle and Luke, you should know that it warms my heart when we walk in the door after school and you say, “Mom, what is that delicious smell?” I write recipes every day because I love it, but I create meals because I love you .
Introduction
    It’s 5:00 PM. Everyone’s hungry. It’s takeout or fakeout, meaning grabbing a processed meal from the fridge or freezer and giving it a zap in the microwave. Might there be a third option that doesn’t include heaps of calories, fat, and salt? Right here in Robin Takes 5 you can find 500 delicious options to quickly prepare for yourself, your friends, and your family with just five fabulous ingredients. Robin Takes 5 is a must for all of you busy folks out there—singles, couples on the go, workaholics, empty nesters enjoying new freedom, and active families with munchkins running rampant in the house. Knowing that you can enrich your day with a healthy, satisfying meal made with five ingredients in about twenty minutes gives all of us a