Food for Family & Friends

There are few things more enjoyable than a get-together with friends and family but how do you get the ambience just right and cook food your guests will enjoy? Here you'll find inspirational ideas for table settings and more than 150 perfect recipes; everything you need to host stylish gatherings at home. An introduction looks at choosing tableware and linens, setting a table and using lighting and flowers to add decorative touches. The recipe collection begins with ideas for CASUAL BRUNCHES. Delight your friends with Granola, Nectarine and Ricotta Parfait or Smoked Salmon Kedgeree. Simple ideas for NIBBLES & SHARING PLATES include Spicy Cajun Mixed Nuts and a Warm Marinated Olives and Serrano Ham Platter. Simple STARTERS & SALADS to try are Stuffed Giant Mushrooms with Feta and Herbs and Twice-marinated Beef and Edamame Salad. EFFORTLESS MAINS include Coq au Leftover Red Wine; Slow-cooked Spiced Pork Belly with Apple and Fennel; and Gnocchetti Pasta with Chorizo and Seared Prawn. When you feel like pushing the boat out, try a recipe from SPECIAL OCCASIONS. Choose from Baked Salmon with Chilli and Herbs; or Roast Beef Rib-eye with Cafe de Paris Butter.
FEEDING A CROWD can be tough but keeping it simple is the solution. Try an Artichoke, Mushroom and Olive Pasta Bake with Provolone; or Fish Pie with Leeks and Herbs. Indulgent DESSERTS round off a meal to perfection - choose from Messy Strawberries Romanoff or Vin Santo TiramisA'. Finally, a chapter dedicated to Drinks gives recipes for cool cocktails, advice on choosing wine plus food and wine matching lists.