The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Recipe \Rec"i*pe\ (r[e^]s"[i^]*p[-e]), n.; pl. Recipes
   (r[e^]s"[i^]*p[=e]z). [L., imperative of recipere to take
   back, take in, receive. See Receive.]
   A formulary or prescription for making some combination,
   mixture, or preparation of materials; a receipt.
   [1913 Webster]

   2. a prescription for medicine. [archaic]
      [1913 Webster]

   2. a prescription for medicine. [archaic]
      [1913 Webster]

   3. a set of directions for preparing food from its
      ingredients.
      [PJC]

   4. a method or procedure for accomplishing a goal by defined
      steps; -- implying a high probability of achieving the
      goal; as, a recipe for success. Also used in a negative
      sense, as, a recipe for disaster.
      [PJC]