Top 10 recipes for the beginner (surviving in style), recipe index.
1. Egg
Omelette
The omelette is a classical French dish that transforms eggs into something both elegant and delicious. Ideal for lunch or a light supper, it is very versatile and can be made with all sorts of fillings. Lying plump and golden on a plate, the juices slightly running out, it is simply irresistible.
2. Soup
Cauliflower soup
One hearty soup should be in everyone’s repertoire. Cauliflower is rather unusual and a great favourite of mine. You can use other vegetables to make different soups in much the same way.
3. Pasta
Pasta with tomato sauce
Everyone loves pasta and it is an ‘absolute must’ recipe! It is a very quick and simple dish. It can be made rustic or refined by changing the type of pasta, and different sauces create a different dish every time.
4. Rice
Risotto
Risotto is a dish that should be cooked at home. It never quite tastes as good in a restaurant, because they usually partially pre-cook it. It is not difficult to make, but does take a little time and attention. The result however is sublime. It should become your ‘signature’ dish!
5. Chicken
Whole chicken roasted in its juices
This is the simplest way to prepare a whole chicken. By baking it in an oven bag, it cooks in its own juices and the flesh remains incredibly moist. The extra bonus: the washing up is minimal!
6. Beef
Roasted beef with spicy sauce
This dish is fit for a king. The sauce is rich and unusual and extremely simple to prepare. It is also a dish that tastes delicious cold the next day.
7. Fish
Whole baked fish
A whole fish looks marvellous and, I think, tastes better than fillets because it cooks in its own juices. The paper bag variation here is culinary theatre at its best when you open it in front of your guests. Choose a very fresh fish!
8. Vegetables
Roasted mixed vegetables
Transform vegetables into a dish that looks superb and generous and tastes exceptional. The flavour changes according to season.
9. Green salad
Mixed salad with a classic dressing
Learn this classic dressing and then choose the leaves for your salad. Fresh leaves and homemade dressing take a simple salad to new heights.
10. Sorbet
Raspberry sorbet and ice-cream
This is an extremely quick and simple dessert with a spectacular colour! Once you have tasted it you will understand why it is worth making your own rather than buying it. like and Sicily holds the same fascination for you, join me in my travels and sample the wonderful food of this ancient island.
