The Forest Feast ~ Gatherings

Entertaining family and friends should be attainable, fun, and simple however more often than not while contemplating, prepping and creating it may take the joy out of such. The Forest Feast, Gatherings cookbook is trying to help you achieve and enjoy the entertaining process and as well as the guests and food. 

The cookbook, itself, is colourful and inspiring with photographic recipe illustrations. The Forest Feast, Gatherings, is a gorgeous book. Artful in presentation, entertaining with ideas and style plus simple recipes. Perfect for those who entertain; although I believe many would enjoy this cookbook, entertaining or not. With these encouraging recipes one can feel confident and enjoy the entertaining. 

Recipes include the use of fresh local produce something the creator, Erin Gleeson enjoys immensely as it gives a sense of community and therefore making a connection with the food. Gatherings, is mostly vegetarian with fantastic recipes, like, Butternut Hummus, Vietnamese Lentil Tacos, Squash Lasagna, and Quinoa Crunch Salad to name a few. There are 12 chapters with a "menu lineup" to which the recipes and photographs follow. The 12 chapters are: Iced Tea Party, Summer Feast, Brunch, Picnic, Lunch Gatherings, Fall Feast, Cocktail Party, Vegan & Gluten Free Gathering, Winter Feast, Holiday Cocktail Party, Weeknight Gathering and Party Buffets. It flows with wonderful recipes whatever the occasion. 

Moroccan Carrot Salad

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5 med carrots, (sliced into "coins" using a mandoline or knife)

1/2 cup (100g) cooked quinoa, about 1/4 cup dry, cooked according to package instructions

1/3 cup (50g) golden raisins

1/3 cup (45g) pepitas (shelled pumpkin seeds)

1/2 cup (75g) chickpeas (I used canned and drain them)

3 tablespoons each  - parsley, flat leaf, and mint - fresh and chopped

DRESSING: 

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon maple syrup

1/4 teaspoon cumin

3 tablespoons olive oil

Toss all ingredients. This can be made ahead but add pepitas, herbs and dressing just before serving. The quinoa can be made the day before. 

Hope everyone is having a good week so far! - JD