Casual Entertaining

Today's entertaining at home should be relaxed and not keep the host in the kitchen and away from the company of family and freinds. Top Sydney cook Ross Dobson's mantra is to keep it simple as this collection of fuss-free recipes demonstrates. A chapter on Grazing offers ideas for fingerfoods and drinks. Try Roast Pumpkin, Feta, and Olive Empanadas, Slow-cooked tomatoes with Goat Cheese; or a Smoked Trout, Celeriac, and Apple Salad with 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 Cilantro Rice; or Roast Chicken Pot Pie. When cooking for friends mid-week time is often an issue. Food in a Flash features dishes that can be thrown together with the minimum of effort. Try Pappadelle Pasta with Chicken Tabbouleh. A chapter of Chic Eats has perfect recipes for when you want to dine 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 and a good way to end any meal, however informal. Treat your guests to Almond, Mascarpone, and Pear Tart; White Chocolate Pots with Berries; or Cherry and Walnut Brownies.

*With the emphasis on buying good but affordable ingredients and keeping it simple, Ross Dobson's recipes make entertaining effortless.

*In tune with the current trend for affordable fuss-free entertaining at home.

*Mouth-watering photography by Kate Whitaker.