I’m writing this on a temperamental spring day, with four seasons in one day already. I was already looking forward to the settled long days and warm nights of summer before this book arrived on my desk. Now I can’t wait for the summer season to begin, and this cookbook is just the thing for the season.
With recipes by Sarah Tuck and Claire Aldous and stunning photography by Josh Griggs and Sarah Tuck, this book is as gorgeous as the recipes are delicious.
The first section is ‘come for a drink’ with some drink suggestions and nibbles that will inspire your next gathering… I can’t resist the Whipped Avocado with Silken Tofu, Lime and Jalapeno, the Chicken Katsu Sliders, or the Mushroom Arancini.
The second section is ‘stay for dinner’. I think my favourite recipes are in this part of the book, although that could be debated as the entire book is so tempting…There is an inspired selection of pizzas, and I love the Baked Spanish Rice with Chicken and Chorizo and the Lemongrass and Garlic Roasted Pork Belly.
The third section in the book has us firing up the barbie. Is anyone for Steak Tacos with Charred Pineapple Salsa, or Beer Can Chicken with White Barbecue Sauce?
You can’t go past a great salad, and the next section has plenty on offer. My favourite is the Eggplant, Spinach and Couscous Salad with Lemony Yoghurt Dressing.
There is an entire section devoted to ‘Burger Mania’ and some inspired desserts to finish off with…Summer Fruits in a Lemongrass and Citrus Syrup, or a Macadamia Caramel Tart, anyone? There are also treats to fill the tins, and fabulous sauces and condiments.
The recipes are easy-to-make and taste great; the photography will make you hungry before you begin cooking. The perfect recipe book for the summer season.
Reviewer: Iain McKenzie