The Best of the Best: A Cookbook

The essential collection of RICARDO’s most loved, tested and perfected 5-star recipes.

Each of the 100 recipes in this must-have cookbook has earned its place as RICARDO’s best of the best—these are the foolproof favorites of RICARDO readers and the test kitchen team alike. Ranging from appetizers and sides to satisfying weeknight dinners, and from breakfasts and snacks to desserts, The Best of the Best includes both comforting classics and modern favorites. And every recipe guarantees consistent, achievable and delicious results every time.

Ricardo’s passion for gathering people around the table is fully reflected here, with ideas for hearty family meals, holidays and easy entertaining. Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned home chef, The Best of the Best will be your go-to when cooking for your loved ones time and time again. After all, the very best recipes are the ones that bring us together.

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs