Fresh from the Farm: A Year of Recipes and Stories

Writer, cook, cookbook author, farmer, blogger and former editor of Fine Cooking magazine, Middleton, the "Queen of Fresh" tells of her cooking quest in search for a simpler life. Her memoir style book recounts how she quit her corporate job, bought a farm on a rural island, planted a garden, opened a farm stand, and finally found contentment. Witty, engaging prose draws the reader in and 125 simple recipes entice you to get cooking by exploring Middleton's homegrown suggestions. Throughout the book she offers "Cook's Tips" in neat inserts, such as how to properly shell fava beans and how to maintain the right simmer when making paella. Included alongside the recipes in a wide margin is the continuing narrative of raising and selling crops on the island. Part One, "Late Spring and Early Summer," highlights dishes like the ever popular Deviled Eggs%E2%80%94giving the recipe a twist with spinach, basil and pesto%E2%80%94Pan-Seared Filet Mignon with Wilted Chard and Creamy Thyme Pan Sauce, and Grill-Roasted Baby Bok Choy and Creminis with Garlic-Chile-Lime Oil and Spaghetti. Unusual flavor combinations do an excellent job of highlighting the healthy and fresh produce. Part Two, "High Summer," focuses on "tomatoes and green beans and squash-oh my!" with recipes for salsas (Grilled Corn and Roasted Tomato and Pattypan Stir-Fry with Far East Flavors. Last but not least is the section "Indian Summer and Early Fall" which expands to eclectic dishes like Roasted Carrot "Fries" Autumn Pot Roast with Roasted Root Veggie Garnish, and Roasted Brussels Sprouts made with Pomegranate Dressing, Dried Cherries & Toasted Walnuts. (Feb.)