Casual Entertaining

Today's entertaining at home should be relaxed and informal and not keep the host in the kitchen away from the company of friends.

Top Sydney cook Ross Dobson's mantra is to keep it simple, as this collection of fuss-free recipes shows. A chapter on Grazing offers ideas for fingerfoods and drinks. Try Roast Pumpkin, Feta and Olive Empanadas; or Smoked Trout, Celeriac and Apple Salad on Rye Toasts. With the frugal cook in mind, Cheap and Cheerful has great recipes for dishes that will keep guests well-fed without breaking the bank. Try Mushroom, Spinach and Potato Bake; Baked Thai-style Fish with Coriander Rice; or Roast Chicken Pot Pie. When cooking mid-week, time is often the issue - Food in a Flash features dishes that can be put together with the minimum of effort. Try Pappadelle Pasta with Roast Fennel, Tomato and Black Olives; Smoky Chorizo Risoni with Seared Prawns; or Chicken Tabbouleh. Chic Eats has perfect recipes for dining in style. Try Roast Turkey Breast with Green Olive Salsa or Roast Beef Rib-eye with Cafe de Paris Butter. Sweet Things are always popular - treat your guests to White Chocolate Pots or Cherry and Walnut Brownies.