Scottish shortbread, or petticoat tails as it is also known, is a delicious buttery treat that is very easy to make. It can be bought in tartan tins at Christmas time, but why not make it yourself? It is a lovely gift to give a friend or to have on […]
Photography by Sophie Harper A Christmas tradition in our family is to enjoy a glass of Pimm’s while we open our presents before lunch on Christmas Day. It is a delicious and refreshing drink to have in the summertime. We always have my tasty cheese biscuits with the Pimm’s. Pimm’s […]
Fruit soups are popular throughout Eastern Europe, the Baltic States and Scandinavia. A cold soup made with stone fruits is a delicious seasonal treat and very refreshing on a hot day. I serve one most years as part of our Christmas lunch. Pears, rhubarb and all types of berries can […]
Pasta e ceci is a rustic soup of chickpeas and pasta from Tuscany. It is a simple and sustaining dish that is easy to prepare and really very good. You need to remember to soak the chickpeas overnight as tinned ones won’t work in this recipe. The liquid from cooking […]
An Italian pasticcio is a baked dish of vegetables, meat or pasta that is bound together with béchamel sauce, eggs and cheese. It can either be turned out like a pie or served straight from the baking dish. This tasty version contains well-cooked green beans and is based on a Marcella […]
Burbunya pilaki is a popular Turkish dish of fresh borlotti (burbunya) beans stewed in olive oil with vegetables. Borlotti beans are pretty pink speckled beans that lose the markings when cooked. They are similar in taste to chestnuts and are very nutritious. Dried or canned borlotti beans can be used […]
This Turkish carrot and yoghurt dip or salad (yoghurtlu havuc) is easy to make and delicious when freshly made. Serve it with Turkish bread and other dips and meze dishes to make a delightful meal. It can also be served as a side dish with grilled or roasted meat. Photography […]
This is my friend Gabi Radinger’s recipe for mixed bean salad using canned beans and a tasty dressing of pumpkin seed oil and apple cider vinegar. It is quick and easy to make and perfect for a barbecue or to take on a picnic. I always keep a couple of […]
Sformato is an Italian baked dish usually made with vegetables and eggs and similar to a soufflé. It can be cooked in a mould and turned out to serve. This version has ricotta as the base and is quite a delicate dish and quick to make. It is lovely for […]
Minestrone is a vibrant vegetable soup from Italy. I love having a pot of it in my fridge for a quick and nutritious meal. Throughout Italy there are many regional and seasonal recipes for minestrone. This one comes from Genoa in Liguria and is served with basil pesto which is […]