For me mangos spell decadence! I don’t know if it’s the colour, flavour or texture, or simply they are pretty expensive. Except for those few wonderful weeks where you can buy a tray of them for around $29, and that window of opportunity is fast approaching! It’s the taste of summer. That’s the time to […]

In the Sunday papers last weekend, Body and Soul reporter Aoife McGee wrote about her week without processed food. For me, the concept is easy but for Joe-and-Jane average, it’s a really hard thing. On the whole, our cooking skills aren’t what our parents’ were and we are used to having things now so the […]

Last night I went to the most fabulous little new bar in my neighbourhood (in fact, it was my second visit in a week). Having lived in Melbourne for years and enjoyed its small bar culture, I am so glad the Sydney licensing people have seen the light. ‘10 William St’ is the small third […]

The Melbourne Cup is an amazing event – it’s fun, it’s glamorous and the whole country gets involved. The sense of party is infectious and it is apparent not only at the track but around the nation. I love the way everyone wants to dress up, put on a hat, have a few bets, sip […]

If having your friends to dinner isn’t stressful enough, imagine what it’s like to invite your colleagues, maybe your boss and some major clients. Don’t get stressed – get planning. It is the key to all entertaining. Just like you would at work, make lists! Grab a cup of tea, put aside half an hour […]

How many times a week do you sit down to eat as a family? I am sure some level of guilt will accompany the answer. We all know it is good to have meals together but many of us rarely do so – especially without the ‘white noise’ of the TV, radio, CD player or […]

The beauty of the lemon meringue pie – other than it being my favourite dessert in the world – is that it goes with so many main courses. From a tasty chicken salad to tender oven-baked lamb loins, the lemon meringue is a perfect end-of-meal treat. Sorry boys, I promise more beef next week! Shortcrust […]

You can smell it in the air – it’s the smell of spring. Now mix that with the smell of fresh chicken salad and you’ll have a quick, healthy and delicious meal for a warm spring afternoon. The trick is to have some poached chicken in the fridge. It will last for up to four […]

A few old favourites to make with the kids over the holidays – there is nothing like baking these to take you straight back to your childhood and create a few memories for the kids. These recipes are no-fuss, simple delights – the bonus for you and the kids is they require very little washing […]

So you're on deadline and stressed? Or maybe you had one too many drinks the night before ... that Quarter Pounder is looking mighty tasty, isn't it? Ring any bells? While fried and battered, greasy fast food looks like the better option in these moments, refrain from temptation. Often the healthy alternative will feel better […]

Spring … summer  – the perfect time for a BBQ, yummy salad and glass of wine (for me it’s a Sav Blanc). This is a fabulous way to eat – we need good lean meats, salads are healthy, and it’s been proven a few wines shared with friends is beneficial on a lot of levels! […]

Treats are good for the soul – they make you feel good, special, decadent, even deserving! Especially that spot of ‘self bribing’ we do – you know, the ‘I can have that bar of chocolate if I finish my tax tonight’ thought pattern. Following my no numbers rules, try and make your own or check […]