Simple Starters: Easy Recipes for Effortless Entertaining, Hardcover Book, By: Valerie Aikman-Smith

Whether you are looking for an elegant first course for a dinner party or a quick idea to liven up any meal, this selection of delicious yet simple recipes will provide all the inspiration you need. Small Bites make an informal shared starter to serve with drinks. Try Pea and Parma Ham Crostini; Grilled Lamb Skewers with Garlic and Saffron Custard for dipping; or Vermouth Scallops with Green Olive Tapenade. Soups are the classic way to begin a meal. Choose from a chilled Gazpacho with Smoked Salted Croutons; Pea and Smoked Ham Soup with Mint; or an elegant Crab Bisque. Salads are always light and refreshing - try Apple, Beetroot and Fennel Salad with Roquefort; classic Caesar Salad; or Heirloom Tomatoes with Burato Cheese and Fresh Basil. Meat & Poultry options include Chicken Liver Pate with Blueberry and Balsamic Glaze; Carpaccio of Beef with Salsa Verde on Bruschetta; and, Pork, Fennel and Spinach Terrine with Drunken Figs. Lighter Fish & Seafood ideas include Salt-crusted Citrus Prawns with Chilli Dipping Sauce; Smoked Mackerel and Preserved Lemon Pate; and, Pickled Salmon with Fennel and Cucumber. Vegetarian options include Smoked Mushroom Pate; individual Cheese and Basil Souffles and Fresh Asparagus with a Home-made Hollandaise Sauce.