The Lazy Gourmet

The Lazy Gourmet: Magnificent Meals Made Easy ....actually, I'd prefer to call this the Relaxed Gourmet... is for those of us juggling so many aspects of our lives... work... family...friends...personal time....what is that?...I digress.  

The book is the brainchild of Robin Donovan & Juliana Gallin (check out their very cool and useful website ) and it's filled with the most marvelous... and truly inspired dishes.  Just because you don't have hours and hours to spend in the kitchen, does not mean you can't prepare spectacular meals.  Your guests will really rave about the "coolness" factor of whatever you serve them.    The recipes are so simple to prepare, yet give the impression that you've been slaving away.

It being the Holiday season as I finally write this, we often find ourselves scrambling to serve those last minute visitors.... once we realize that we've just said...."sure.... come on over!" and we realize that we need to feed them!

That appetizer to go with a bag of chips and a "libation"...(your favorite holiday beverage) ... White Bean, Mint & Parmesan Dip comes together in less time than it takes to hang up the phone!.  Do serve it in a prettier bowl than I did and whip up a double batch, it goes quickly.

The Rice, Barley, Lentil & Mushroom Pilaf, takes five minutes to throw together and while you're showering, dressing and tidying up (i.e. throwing things in a cupboard) the pilaf is simmering away, making your house smell divine.

I have lots of pages bookmarked.  Soy Ginger Cured Salmon ( a few minutes to prepare & two days in the fridge)  will blow everyone away.   Moroccan Chickpea Stew with Charmoula, Gemelli with Roasted Cauliflower, Tomatoes & Crispy Breadcrumbs and Spiced Chard with Quinoa & Currants all sound fantastic and healthy option for those who want to cut back on meat, and still feel satisfied.   It's a given that vegetarians will be in Heaven.

That said,  there are Spicy Crab Cakes and Pistachio Crusted Leg of Lamb with Spiced Yogurt Cilantro Sauce that have me drooling as I write.  Not to mention, chicken, beef, fish and seafood.

BOTTOM LINE:  This is one book you'll turn to often in 2012, making brilliant dishes in no time.