Caramel Shortbread

I fancied making some shortbread and in my quest I stumbled across an interesting variation of this classic. It was in James Martin's book entitled 'Desserts' (see link below). I love this book, the recipes are so easy to follow and are always yummy. He calls this particular recipe 'Grandma's caramel shortbread' and I am so grateful she shared this recipe with him so I was lucky enough to be able to make and eat it.

Feed two for £3 - Gnocchi with Bacon, Broccoli and Creamy Garlic Sauce

This is another cheap and cheerful recipe that was recently discovered. Again, it feeds two for less than £3 and counts as two of your five a day.

It was really creamy and just what you need when you're craving a dauphinoiseque meal.

What you will need

Potato gnocchi - 59p

4 rashers of bacon - £1

Small head of broccoli - 35p

150ml double cream - 56p

Onion - 10p

Garlic - 3p

Salt and pepper

Feed two for £3 - Spaghetti Bolognese

It's the end of term and funds are running low. Gone are the days of spontaneous eating out and in are the days of making whatever is edible from the darkest corners of the cupboard.
Never fear. Over the last few days I have made meals which feed two for £3 or less and even if I do say so myself are rather nice. Also, they are at least 2 of your 5 a day!

What you will need
200g minced beef - 99p
A load of fresh tomatoes from the market - 50p
Onion - 10p
Garlic - 3p
Tomato puree - 13p
Spaghetti - 30p
Milk, stock, seasoning and herbs Total price: £2.05 (not including the milk etc.)

My Garden

Is it just me who has become strangely attached to the veggies I have grown? Do those who garden also refer to their produce as their prides and joy?

Maybe it is because this is the first time I have done it and so far all is going swimmingly. It turns out growing my own is my guilty pleasure. Currently, I am growing; (from left to right) courgettes, broad beans and spinach. Elsewhere I have tomato (three kinds), sage, pepper- and spear- mint and parsley.

Eggs Benedict - The Swan at Newbury 3 of 3

This current trilogy will be rounded off by the consumption of another Eggs Benedict at a restaurant I have been to many times.

Summer is almost upon us. Yes to the sunshine, yes to the balmy summer evenings and yes to Pimms. No to the fact that my bingo wings are only just falling short of smacking me in the face if I have to wave at anyone. I suppose in some ways I am glad I shan't be having more Eggs Benedict in order to attempt to combat my large posterior. In other ways I am not excited for a summer of cucumber and lettuce surprise. The surprise being there are no calories and henceforth no taste or enjoyment.