In the usual Harriott manner, inspiration ranges all over, with a preference for the flavours of Latin America, the Mediterranean and South-East Asia. So Prawn, Mushroom and Bean Sprout Noodles sits cheek-by-jowl with Jalapeno Tiger-Prawn Ginger Skewers; while not far away is Roast Lemon Bay-Scented Cod. Cajun and Jamaican jerk seasonings are also used to good effect, for example in the Louisiana Blue Cheese and Chicken Sandwich and Jamaican Jerk Chicken. Puddings are strong on fruit: a particularly happy invention is the "Live and Kicking" Lemon and Chilli Sorbet. A handy collection, therefore, of speedy, waistline-friendly recipe ideas, which might prove something of a primer in expanding culinary horizons. The drawback, for some, will be Harriott himself. You don't have to be a toffee-nosed Elizabeth-David-or-nothing purist to find his manner grating ("Slap 'em on the barbie" "Dee-lish!" "Wowee"). But he's nothing if not friendly. --Robin Davidson

Book Jacket
Everyone loves good food but most of us have to watch what we eat or else, suddenly, the waistband see