Cookbook Review: Fresh Tastes by Lee Clayton Roper

There are a gazillion cookbooks on our shelves – who needs another? I do! When I noted the classic recipes in Fresh Tastes from A Well-Seasoned Kitchen (around $30), sent as a review sample by award winning author Lee Clayton Roper, I knew that this is a book anyone is sure to love. Inside this irresistible compilation of elegant yet uncomplicated recipes (finally!) were gorgeous photos that make the simplest of recipes look stunning, carefully thought-out themed menus that take that guesswork out of your next gathering, and inspirational stories that make many of the recipes more meaningful.

Photo Credit: www.amazon.com

Over 170 sure-to-please recipes feature fresh ingredients whenever relevant, suggestions for modifications, and cooking tips that I appreciate. All of the recipes were assessed by volunteer taste testers (what a terrific job!) then chosen for inclusion in Fresh Tastes based on their palate pleasing flavors and sophisticated presentation. It’s your turn to choose a favorite recipe, open a delicious bottle of wine for pairing (see link after each recipe), and enjoy not only the process of cooking but the delectable taste sensation on your plate!

 The good news? I’m offering a complimentary cookbook sent to one lucky reader (chosen at random) who shares their best-loved food and wine pairing (whatever it is) in the comment section. Comments must be placed no later than January 1. Good luck!

A few of my favorite appetizer recipes in Fresh Tastes include the Pimento Cheese Spread (with a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc) and the Tomato Shortbread with Olive Tapenade (with a lively rosé from Provence). Trust me, you’ll want to serve Pesto Sausage and Parmesan Cheese Strata (with a chilled Champagne) or Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict with Mustard Dill Sauce (with a beautiful Beaujolais) for your guests at brunch. A savory dinner entrée may include Grilled Steak, Roasted Potatoes, and Tomato Salad (with a Virginia Cabernet Franc), Chicken Pot Pie with Curry (with a snappy Riesling), or Scallops with Tomatoes and Pesto (with pure Chablis).

If you’re planning a New Year’s Eve dinner (or any other celebration), Lee Clayton Roper has this covered with a Champagne Cocktail for starters. Your guests will crave each taste of the Prosciutto, Fig and Goat Cheese Tarts, Butternut Squash Soup, Wild Bill’s Bison with Shiitake Bourbon Sauce, Golden Potatoes, Shredded Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, and Pear Kuchen.  Other suggested menus include those for a Cocktail Party, Après Ski Party, Valentine’s Day, Easter, and Spring dinners, Concert in the Park, and more. It’s just that easy!

 Lee Clayton Roper is an award-winning cookbook author, cooking instructor, public speaker and TV personality. Her first book, A Well-Seasoned Kitchen, co-written with her mother Sally Clayton, received numerous rave reviews, and is often featured in local and national press. In 2010, A Well-Seasoned Kitchen achieved national acclaim, winning the prestigious “Living Now” gold medal. With Fresh Tastes, Lee expands the Well-Seasoned Kitchen collection, serving up fresh, delicious and sophisticated dishes guaranteed to inspire creativity in kitchens everywhere. “Fresh,” “organic,” and “local” aren’t simply buzz words for Lee — they’re indelible principles, seamlessly translated from the culinary experiences of her youth. Today, Lee tours the country (in her Airstream trailer) sharing the secrets to her success as a renowned home cook and hostess, teaching cooking classes, leading cooking demonstrations, and providing expert commentary on television, radio and in print media.

Remember to comment about your favorite food and wine pairing (whatever it is!) before January 1 for a chance to win a complimentary copy of Fresh Tastes by Lee Clayton Roper. Bon Appetit!

Cheers! ~ Cindy