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Planet Kitchen Table: Recipes for a Sustainable Future in Food
Tasting the Season's is the winner of the 2015 Benjamin Franklin award, a prestigious award given to books recognizing excellence in book editorial and design.
The cookbook includes an impressive variety of fast and fresh, irresistible, user-friendly recipes, family-oriented one-dish wonders, updated classics, and creative gourmet entrees. Each and every one of the more than 250 superbly seasoned, beautifully presented and eco-friendly meals was selected to serve as the center of any occasion, from an intimate family dinner to a large holiday celebration. Get ready to have your taste buds rewarded with remarkable style and grace.
Tasting the Seasons is infused with Kerry Dunnington’s highly evolved environmental outlook on food. Her refined and well-cultivated tastes are demonstrated by her recipe selection of crowd-pleasing appetizers, novel breakfast and brunch menus in which fresh fruit and vegetables often take center stage, and a variety of soups. Chapters include appetizers, enhancers, breakfast and lunch, hearty soups, lighter than hearty soups, Pescatarian main dishes, meat, chicken and pork dishes, vegetarian cold and warm garden greenery dishes, breads, biscuits, rolls and sweet endings.
The book also includes a product resources list, tips and how-to’s for entertaining, a special chapter on how to identify, select, and prepare foods along ecologically sound principles, along with a glossary of eco-terms, tips, and techniques and even a 365 day challenge to help you improve what you do to help save the planet.
Recipes are coupled with Kerry’s ideas and strategies for successful entertaining. Her book contains a wealth of up-to-date information about following food seasons; incorporating fresh, seasonal, locally-sourced food into balanced and appealing menus in ways that protect the environment.
Tasting the Seasons is designed to make cooking and entertaining at home easy, healthy, educational, and fun.
The cookbook includes an impressive variety of fast and fresh, irresistible, user-friendly recipes, family-oriented one-dish wonders, updated classics, and creative gourmet entrees. Each and every one of the more than 250 superbly seasoned, beautifully presented and eco-friendly meals was selected to serve as the center of any occasion, from an intimate family dinner to a large holiday celebration. Get ready to have your taste buds rewarded with remarkable style and grace.
Tasting the Seasons is infused with Kerry Dunnington’s highly evolved environmental outlook on food. Her refined and well-cultivated tastes are demonstrated by her recipe selection of crowd-pleasing appetizers, novel breakfast and brunch menus in which fresh fruit and vegetables often take center stage, and a variety of soups. Chapters include appetizers, enhancers, breakfast and lunch, hearty soups, lighter than hearty soups, Pescatarian main dishes, meat, chicken and pork dishes, vegetarian cold and warm garden greenery dishes, breads, biscuits, rolls and sweet endings.
The book also includes a product resources list, tips and how-to’s for entertaining, a special chapter on how to identify, select, and prepare foods along ecologically sound principles, along with a glossary of eco-terms, tips, and techniques and even a 365 day challenge to help you improve what you do to help save the planet.
Recipes are coupled with Kerry’s ideas and strategies for successful entertaining. Her book contains a wealth of up-to-date information about following food seasons; incorporating fresh, seasonal, locally-sourced food into balanced and appealing menus in ways that protect the environment.
Tasting the Seasons is designed to make cooking and entertaining at home easy, healthy, educational, and fun.
288 pages, Paperback
First published November 21, 2011
About the author
Kerry Dunnington
3 books3 followersKerry Dunnington is a multiple award-winning American author who writes cookbooks. She lives with her husband, Nick, the official taste-tester in Baltimore, Maryland. Kerry's third cookbook, The Seasonal Kitchen: Farm-Fresh Ingredients Enhance 165 Recipes was released in 2017.
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
October 31, 2014
I won a copy of this book in the Goodreads First Reads program. I was excited to win a copy because I like to eat my fruits and vegetables in season and locally grown whenever possible, so this seemed like a great book to look for some recipe ideas.
I liked all of the tips and explanations that are included in this book. I think it would be ideal for someone who is new to eating seasonally, locally, and other food concerns. I liked that explanations about CSAs and other programs were included so people know what to look for in their area. Dunnington also talks about reducing plastic in your kitchen and pre-made foods. There is a challenge at the start of the book that will help readers decide what they can do in their own kitchens to help the planet, and improve their own health. Options range from less plastic, to trying new foods.
I am looking forward to trying many of the recipes. I have tried two so far, but have a long list of recipes to try from this book. So far, I made the Roasted Vegetables and the Chocolate Sauce. The Roasted Vegetables were simple to make, and is easy to adjust to whatever vegetables are in season and seasoning preferences. It would make a delicious side to many dishes. I served it with Dirty Rice. The Chocolate Sauce only had a couple ingredients and was ready very quickly. We dipped fruit in it, and were delighted with this easy to make treat. I think it would also go well with Ice Cream. There are a lot of recipes I want to try, but some of the recipes I am really looking forward to making are: Horseradish Dip, Red Curry Sauce, Mango and Cardamon Coffee Cake with Almond Streusel, Lemon Pasta with Asparagus, and Chocolate Pistachio Cream Cake.
Two things to note: One there are no pictures in this book. My personal preference is to have pictures to help me decide what looks tasty, and to know if the dish turned out how it was suppose to. The other thing I wanted to mention was there are a good number of recipes that use milk, cream, or cheese. It is my personal preference to not use a lot of that in my cooking, but I know many people who love it.
The recipes ranged from very simple to slightly complicated. Anyone should be able to find recipes they feel happy and comfortable making in this cookbook.
I liked all of the tips and explanations that are included in this book. I think it would be ideal for someone who is new to eating seasonally, locally, and other food concerns. I liked that explanations about CSAs and other programs were included so people know what to look for in their area. Dunnington also talks about reducing plastic in your kitchen and pre-made foods. There is a challenge at the start of the book that will help readers decide what they can do in their own kitchens to help the planet, and improve their own health. Options range from less plastic, to trying new foods.
I am looking forward to trying many of the recipes. I have tried two so far, but have a long list of recipes to try from this book. So far, I made the Roasted Vegetables and the Chocolate Sauce. The Roasted Vegetables were simple to make, and is easy to adjust to whatever vegetables are in season and seasoning preferences. It would make a delicious side to many dishes. I served it with Dirty Rice. The Chocolate Sauce only had a couple ingredients and was ready very quickly. We dipped fruit in it, and were delighted with this easy to make treat. I think it would also go well with Ice Cream. There are a lot of recipes I want to try, but some of the recipes I am really looking forward to making are: Horseradish Dip, Red Curry Sauce, Mango and Cardamon Coffee Cake with Almond Streusel, Lemon Pasta with Asparagus, and Chocolate Pistachio Cream Cake.
Two things to note: One there are no pictures in this book. My personal preference is to have pictures to help me decide what looks tasty, and to know if the dish turned out how it was suppose to. The other thing I wanted to mention was there are a good number of recipes that use milk, cream, or cheese. It is my personal preference to not use a lot of that in my cooking, but I know many people who love it.
The recipes ranged from very simple to slightly complicated. Anyone should be able to find recipes they feel happy and comfortable making in this cookbook.
November 7, 2014
**I received a review copy of this book from Goodreads giveaways**
Overall, a great cookbook for those who are looking for ways to incorporate more seasonal produce into their culinary repertoire. The recipes look positively decadent, especially the soups (I'm looking forward to trying some out as we move into the winter months). And anyone who can make eggplant and garbanzo beans look decadent has my attention!
A few minor structural/stylistic quibbles cost it a star. I did appreciate that each recipe got its own description paragraph to help put it in context--that went a long way towards making up for the book's lack of photographs. But given that the book trades on the concept of seasonality, I was surprised that it didn't divvy up recipes based on the seasons! Instead, it holds with the traditional cookbook structure of chapters based on the type of dish. Easier to look things up, I suppose, but I've seen the seasonal divisions done and done well (Jamie Oliver's Jamie at Home: Cook Your Way to the Good Life comes to mind). Also (and this is just a personal pet peeve), for a cook who is interested in a healthier, whole food approach to cooking, there's an awful lot of canola oil bandied about in these recipes! There are so many great cooking oils available these days; I just bristle at being told to use that awful rapeseed stuff.
Overall, a great cookbook for those who are looking for ways to incorporate more seasonal produce into their culinary repertoire. The recipes look positively decadent, especially the soups (I'm looking forward to trying some out as we move into the winter months). And anyone who can make eggplant and garbanzo beans look decadent has my attention!
A few minor structural/stylistic quibbles cost it a star. I did appreciate that each recipe got its own description paragraph to help put it in context--that went a long way towards making up for the book's lack of photographs. But given that the book trades on the concept of seasonality, I was surprised that it didn't divvy up recipes based on the seasons! Instead, it holds with the traditional cookbook structure of chapters based on the type of dish. Easier to look things up, I suppose, but I've seen the seasonal divisions done and done well (Jamie Oliver's Jamie at Home: Cook Your Way to the Good Life comes to mind). Also (and this is just a personal pet peeve), for a cook who is interested in a healthier, whole food approach to cooking, there's an awful lot of canola oil bandied about in these recipes! There are so many great cooking oils available these days; I just bristle at being told to use that awful rapeseed stuff.
November 13, 2014
This cookbook oozes with novel ideas about the twin pleasures of preparing and eating food. The author’s love of food just jumps off the pages and onto the table because the recipes are fun, easy to follow and bring confidence and flair to even the most intimated or inexperienced.
For example, the Cheese Pate with Plum Sauce appetizer is a crowd pleaser every single time. Her Tomato Pie is comfort food at it’s best. And her soups are truly food for your soul, in addition to your mind and body. Plus the tips, terms and techniques in the back of the book goes one step further to provides a eco friendly level of information.
I simply don’t think you can go wrong with this cookbook. It’s incredibly thoughtful, creative and practical just like the recipes. And best of all, you come across as a ‘kitchen genius’ when you share these unique creations with family and friends.
-Kris Giammarise
For example, the Cheese Pate with Plum Sauce appetizer is a crowd pleaser every single time. Her Tomato Pie is comfort food at it’s best. And her soups are truly food for your soul, in addition to your mind and body. Plus the tips, terms and techniques in the back of the book goes one step further to provides a eco friendly level of information.
I simply don’t think you can go wrong with this cookbook. It’s incredibly thoughtful, creative and practical just like the recipes. And best of all, you come across as a ‘kitchen genius’ when you share these unique creations with family and friends.
-Kris Giammarise
September 29, 2014
Okay everyone, I have to say this may very well be one of the best cookbooks I have tried in awhile. All the recipes are realistic, have easy to follow directions, and the ingredients are made using seasonal foods that are perfect for foodies like me. After going through this cookbook, I can’t wait to get in the kitchen and start cooking. Now all I need is a trip to the local orchard or to send my husband to the grocery for us while I work! Probably the best section in my eyes, however, are the soups. Many of the soups sound absolutely heavenly, and are meals you would expect to find on restaurant menus.
After being burned recently purchasing another seasonal cookbooks, I have to say I couldn't be happier. This is likely going to in my top 5 go to cookbooks and I highly recommend this cookbook to anyone who loves to cook healthy foods that don't taste 'healthy'.
After being burned recently purchasing another seasonal cookbooks, I have to say I couldn't be happier. This is likely going to in my top 5 go to cookbooks and I highly recommend this cookbook to anyone who loves to cook healthy foods that don't taste 'healthy'.
September 20, 2014
“Tasting The Seasons” stays true to its namesake by combining simple and seasonal ingredients to create impactful dishes. Each recipe represents Kerry’s healthy and whole approach to cooking yielding delicious results. I’ve personally tasted many of Kerry’s recipes over the years and I am always satisfied and refreshed by her approach to food and cooking.
This book is an absolute “must have” for all cooks from the novice at-home chef to the culinary expert. I strongly suggest that if you are searching for a cookbook with meals for any and all occasions that you give this one a try!
This book is an absolute “must have” for all cooks from the novice at-home chef to the culinary expert. I strongly suggest that if you are searching for a cookbook with meals for any and all occasions that you give this one a try!
December 12, 2014
Cooking with locally obtained, in-season produce whenever possible is more than just a good idea to Kerry Dunnington. Its a way of life.
In her new book, Tasting the Seasons, Ms. Dunnington explores how we can apply these practices to our everyday lives with taste-filled recipes and practical eco-friendly, all-occasion tips.
Being a Master Gardener alumni and environmentalist, these kind of cookbooks are right up my alley. The author shares 250 recipes seasoned with insight on sustainable living and sprinkled with humorous family derived anecdotes.
In her new book, Tasting the Seasons, Ms. Dunnington explores how we can apply these practices to our everyday lives with taste-filled recipes and practical eco-friendly, all-occasion tips.
Being a Master Gardener alumni and environmentalist, these kind of cookbooks are right up my alley. The author shares 250 recipes seasoned with insight on sustainable living and sprinkled with humorous family derived anecdotes.
November 13, 2014
Fresh Tomato Pie emerged as a popular item this summer so I went looking for a recipe. When I found one in Kerry's latest cookbook, I knew it would be good -- and it exceeded expectations! Dunnington does that consistently. She has a way with food that is simple and dependable, allowing the wonderful flavors to emerge without a lot of effort or fuss. She really knows her culinary stuff.
December 31, 2014
Just read through this book quickly to select recipes to try. Filled it up with post-its cause there are so many tempting ones. Made this one first:
http://jitterycook.com/2014/12/29/bak...
Looking forward to working my way through this book. Original, simple, healthy. Perfect for the home cook looking for recipes that inspire without being too taxing.
http://jitterycook.com/2014/12/29/bak...
Looking forward to working my way through this book. Original, simple, healthy. Perfect for the home cook looking for recipes that inspire without being too taxing.
September 30, 2014
The title of this cookbook really does say it all. The recipes are so easy to follow and produce amazing results. After having taken a hiatus from the kitchen, this book brought me back to it and there are quite a few people who are happy about that.
February 22, 2015
This book is a joy to read! I'm loving the freshness of the recipes, the inventiveness, the way every page makes me want to head into the kitchen (and then sit down to eat). Can't wait to read what's next from this author.
March 25, 2020
Will definitely have to rereview this now that I'm in a better position to take advantage of the recipes.
March 19, 2015
I was lucky enough to win a copy of this cookbook on good reads. It is fantastic - the recipes are easy to follow and delicious. I will be enjoying this cookbook for many years to come.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews