French Food at Home

What a gift for those of us with neither the time nor the patience for classical French technique! From the "helpful hints" to the wry comments, this book makes French cooking a lot of fun, not just accessible. I have yet to make anything that disappointed even my finicky five-year old. And with the increasing emphasis on fresh, seasonal fare, this book has been a great source of ideas for things to do with (even more) tomatoes, corn, peaches, etc., etc. No matter your skills, or lack thereof, in the kitchen, you will find yourself reaching for this book again and again.

What I wouldn't give to be invited to Laura Calder's house for a meal. If she is delightful in person as she is in print, I would be in for a real treat. French Food At Home has turned me into a fan of French cooking -- at least the way Laura does it. Who ever would have thought that these simple recipes could yield such succulent results?! You know a meal is good when you can't help but smile from its deliciousness in mid bite. But this is French Food At Home throughout. I've made the Pineapple Tuilles, Summer Lentil Salad, Thyme Licks, Leek Tart, Spiced Almonds, Coffee Chop and all were hits. And remember not to skimp on the ingredients as this is key. Buy the freshest that you possibly can, follow Ms. Calder's witty and interesting recipes and enjoy the deliciousness and compliments that are sure to follow. Bon Appetit!

The real magic in this great book is that it's approachable and inventive. It's full of things you'll actually make. Things that taste good and look good. But don't let the simplicity fool you--the flavors are fresh and surprising. And Calder's heatnotes are a joy. Encore!

Laura Calder has written a miraculous cookbook. She has taken the mystery and difficulty out of cooking French food at home. The recipes are inventive, clear and easy to make. And taste nothing short of fantastic. Plus, her writing style is engaging, knowledgable and eminently readable. I cannot recommend this book strongly enough for anyone who loves to food and loves to cook.

This is a fantastic book both to read as well for its recipes and cooking advice. Laura Calder obviously enjoys feeding her friends good, simple and delicious food without any fuss - not difficult, ornate French dishes that may keep you in the kitchen all day . Her recipes are at the same time simple to understand, easy to execute and simply delicious. I have used her recipes to put together several dinner parties for my friends, and I didnt spend the day or the evening in the kitchen. Her writing is both warm an funny - an excellent read in itself! Highly recommended!