New Cookbook: The Romantic Prairie Cookbook, Field-fresh Recipes and Homespun Settings by Fifi O’Neill

“Romantic prairie” in the Hamptons? Well, we do have the country’s oldest cattle ranch in Montauk. And…we gotta eat. When a friend gave me this new cookbook I was skeptical that it would grab me. It’s written by Fifi O’Neill, who edits Romantic Country Style magazine. I am addicted to that magazine. It’s chock full of inspiring ideas on how to make heaps of yard sale treasures like mine looked high-end. But a whole book about cooking by O’Neill? I just didn’t know.

This book explained why O’Neill’s magazine writing sometimes seems English-challenged – she’s French. How very romantic.

This book is rife with gorgeous photographs by Mark Lohman. Some of the dishes are positively art – the Radish and Amaranth Salad looks like a painting. How does it taste? The jury is out, I’m so taken with many of these recipes, I’m waiting to prepare them using local ingredients. Can’t wait to try the summer squash ribbons with squash blossom pesto, the vegetable bread pudding and the sweet potato soup!

It’s not all light fare. There are some very hearty dishes including Tourtiere, which is a Canadian meat pie, and buffalo and venison dishes. Truly something for everyone.

When my loved ones come in off the prairie (or beach) this summer I’ll be ready with some romantic grub.

The Romantic Prairie Cookbook, Field-fresh Recipes and Homespun Settings by Fifi O’Neill (Cico Books: 2012). $27.95 available locally and online.