This enticing cookbook gets top marks purely for the stunning photography and presentation. If you want simple, achievable, delicious menus and versatile recipes for healthy family meals and entertaining, this is your bible.

I loved how Walton gives us the tools of how to cook sustainably, while challenging us to experiment, cook fresh and seasonally (wherever possible) and to be confident in using different ingredients to suit your own taste.

If you are daunted by cooking fish, or trying a variety that you haven’t previously, you will appreciate Walton’s practical advice. He includes basic instructions and different techniques along with step-by-step photographs. Walton’s ‘Arsenal of Flavours’ (a go-to selection of flavour-packed sauces, dressings and marinades) is fabulous, along with his pantry staples and many short-cut suggestions (canned legumes, frozen peas and store-bought pastry). Some of my favourite recipes to try include: smoky whole eggplants with crispy chickpeas, olives and tahini; whole roast Lebanese fish; and Moroccan silverbeet and tomato rice.

Tom Walton’s inspiring and interesting background in food, cooking and travel makes for hearty reading.

Reviewed by Karen Williams