Beets can be a divisive subject at the dinner table. They have somewhat marmite charm to them. Some love them. Some loathe them. I have catered for both camps and even with the most perturbed of beetroot eaters have managed to turn them round to enjoying them with this salad. Roasting beets brings out a natural sweetness in them reducing their earthiness whilst still maintaining their flavour.
Read MoreI love the nuttiness of acorn squash, but you could use butternut squash, onion squash or crown prince squash too. Tropea onions are long torpedo-shaped onions traditionally from Italy. When roasted they are beautifully sweet and soft and work wonderfully with the salty creaminess of the Grana Padano Riserva.
Read MoreIf ever I am hosting a dinner where I know I need to impress this is always a dish I think about. Although the components are simple; squash, mozzarella, blackberries and pesto, there is something so incredibly moreish and delicious about it that I am rarely without ‘oohs’ and ‘ahs’ when serving it. It is plate lickingly good as well as beautiful which is the perfect dinner party material in my book. We often think of juicy tomatoes when using mozzarella but blackberries are the perfect match too, bursting in the mouth with fresh juiciness.
Read MoreA true plate licking worthy side dish with crispy potatoes, crunchy roast broccoli and a creamy, smoked garlic yogurt. I love to serve this as a side or even star of the dinner table and the left overs make for wonderful bowlfuls too.
Read MoreJanuary is cold and grey but her table is not. Like a phoenix from the ashes citrus brings colour back to the kitchen in the form of Meyer lemons, naval oranges, chirpy satsumas and my favourite – blood oranges. The blissful paring of bitter leaves and blood orange is no secret and this salad
Read MoreThis recipe calls for a kick of chilli and I find the coolness of yogurt works very well. The coriander-almond oil is similar to a pesto but rougher and looser in texture. Coriander is fantastic with the spices but if you aren’t a fan basil or parsley will do.
Read MoreWhen it comes to squash there is little I do not love. I’ve a soft spot for all of them; Butternut – especially with sage, Delicata – sweet and delicate as her name suggests, Gem – small and humble, Onion – wonderfully soft and buttery and very very good spread on toast with a little garlic and black pepper. Needless to say my ‘ode to squash’ could go on
Read MoreA bright and beautiful winter salad with roasted chestnuts and crunchy almonds. Delicious as a side or by the bowlful.
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