The only time we want to hear the phrase “What do you bring to the table,” is if it has to do with a holiday and you’re being asked to bring a dish. But, of course, bringing a dish to a gathering can come with its own stressors. Who are you cooking for? Is the dish you have in mind a “creative spin” on a family recipe or a traditional favorite? Are you just trying to make sure that, as the sole vegan in your crew, you’re not relegated to side dishes only? If you’re trying to decide what to bring to the function this holiday season and beyond, we’ve got you covered. We’ve pulled together a list of very black cookbooks– ranging from Ms. Patti’s soul food to Pinky Cole’s gentle push towards adding more plant-based foods to your life –to help make sure your contributions are always elite.