Home-Cooked Comforts

At the end of a busy day, the thought of something bubbling away in the oven can feel like a welcome retreat, and these delicious home-made recipes are meant to do just that, provide a comforting meal, all with help of just one pot or pan. With little preparation, and enough time to walk away from the oven while it cooks to perfection, each dish is done with busy people in mind; those who want to spend a little time preparing something that is hearty and nutritious, all the while not being tied to the kitchen. For a meaty dish try the Meatball Tagine, an eggplant-filled Lamb Moussaka, or a Farmhouse Chicken Casserole. For some fish favorites choose from the classic Crispy-Crumbed Fish Bake, Moroccan Prawn Ragout, or Roasted Provençal Salmon with Vegetables. Or, if you want to showcase vegetables in dishes of their own, turn to the Sweet Potato, Spinach & Chickpea Stew or the Artichoke, Mushroom & Olive Pasta Bake. Each recipe is easy to make and can be eaten on its own, or at most with a green salad or some crusty bread. So, gather ingredients, ready your sheet-pan, casserole dish, or pot, and tuck in to this oven-to-table fare.
Laura Washburn Hutton was born in Los Angeles but studied at university in Paris. She went on to train at the prestigious Paris cooking school, École de Cuisine La Varenne, and work with Patricia Wells, best-selling author of 'A Food Lover's Guide to Paris'. She is now based in London, where she works as a cooking teacher and food writer. For Ryland Peters & Small, she has written 'Cooking with Apples & Pears', 'The French Country Table', 'Home-cooked Comforts', 'Tacos, Quesadillas & Burritos', 'Mac 'n' Cheese' and 'Grilled Cheese'.