instant-entertainingFollowing the worldwide success of her last book, ‘The Instant Cook,’ Donna Hay brings a new collection of fresh and easy-to-follow recipes and clever styling ideas for entertaining family and friends.

“One of my favourite things is sitting around the dinner table with family and friends, watching people enjoying great food, wine and conversation. But we all lead busy lives and sometimes the thought of cooking for twelve, six or even two can be a little daunting. So that’s why I’ve put together this collection of simple but special recipes that will make your lunch, dinner party or barbecue a memorable occasion for all the right reasons…and guarantee you lots of return invitations.” From impromptu dinners to more lavish celebrations, ‘Instant Entertaining’ is packed full of inspiring meal ideas. Each chapter contains simple recipes for every occasion, as well as styling ideas for your table and home, all beautifully photographed in the style for which Donna Hay has become known worldwide.

This book is a great find, with its beautiful pictures and easy to follow recipes. Most books follow one theme throughout the book and don’t give people much options with regards to entertaining, where as this one does from easy, simple and healthy 3-course menus for four for weeknight cooking, to Saturday night and Sunday lunch entertaining all the way to barbecues and brunch ideas. It even has a section on “special occasions” with menus for two (so when you need to impress that someone special) to cocktail snacks and buffets for twelve with mouthwatering dishes like “figs with ricotta, prosciutto and caramelised balsamic,” “grilled lobster with pistachio and pressed lemon butter” and “almond wafers with lime sorbet and tequila.”

I love cookbooks that make me want to try out every recipe in them and this one does just that, from page to page there are interesting recipes all with pictures (this is a must as I like to see what I am cooking) that all look amazing and easy to make. I will definitely be whipping this out the next time I need to show off my skills.

Wickedfood Cooking School

Sunninghill – (011) 234-3252 sunninghill@wickedfood.co.za

Wickedfood cooking school runs Johannesburg cooking classes throughout the year at its purpose-built cooking studios. Cooking lessons are run in the mornings and evenings 7 days a week (subject to a minimum of 12 people). The venue is also popular for corporate events and private functions – team building cooking classes, birthdays, kitchen teas, and dinner parties with a difference.

Our classes are hands-on, where every person gets to participate in the preparation of the dishes. They are also a lot of fun where you not only learn new skills, but get to meet people with similar interests. For corporate groups and teambuilding cooking classes these events are a novel way of creating staff interaction or entertaining clients.