This book has been three years in the making. The main ingredient in the recipes that follow is love.

These recipes have brought happiness to many people, especially me as I embrace the joy of cooking for the people whom I love. I have been a serious home cook for over 30 years. I've taken many classes along the way; from a high school weekend course to classes in Italy, Aspen and hopefully Ireland now that I'm back home there several times a year.

Cooking is a passion and a therapy for me--so is riding my horse, Dolce. It's truly relaxing to come home after a long day, either from the office or the barn, pour a glass of wine and get creative in the kitchen. I cook with wine; sometimes I put it in the food.

It certainly helps to have people to cook for--those who love and appreciate your food! (I always have my R.J.) There is nothing better than having good friends and family over for dinner to enjoy great food, good wine, lots of love, and laughter. It's about creating memories, which is all we have at the end of the day. You cant take anything else with you!

Early on when I first decided to invite friends into my home, I distinctively remember being very nervous . . . I spoke to a dear friend about it who entertains often. She said, Don't ever worry about your house being clean, your table being perfect or your food being flawless. What people really want is a good time, lots of wine and a great dessert. So, when entertaining, try to remove the stress and remember it really is a lost art--inviting guests into your home to enjoy a meal. It's so much more intimate than a restaurant and something your friends and family will always remember. Enjoy the experience and one another.

Many of the recipes in this book are not exact; feel free to change, create, increase or decrease the amount of spice, or switch up wherever you like. The only science in cooking is baking. This is not a science--this is simply putting good ingredients together and creating lovely food.

Regarding ingredients, always buy the best you can afford. For example, never cook with a wine you wouldn't drink. It shows up in the end. Personally, I would rather have a small amount of a good thing versus the other way around.

Regarding presentation, always do your best to plate your food beautifully. (Google the dish for ideas). We eat with our eyes first. And, the same goes for your table. It doesn't have to be fancy, just a little effort and creativity will make it look special and inviting.

The main thing is to have fun and enjoy yourself in the kitchen. If you don't love it, don't do it as it will be evident in your final dish.

I hope you enjoy these recipes. Please send me stories, updates, comments and any improvements that you've made along the way to my recipes. Bon appétit.

Dedicated to my son Patrick and my husband R.J., the love of my life.

Adrienne Brandes
abrandes@surterreproperties.com
(714) 401-8277

1400 Newport Center Drive, Suite 100
Newport Beach, CA 92600