Book review: 'The Seasoned Vegetarian' by Simon Rimmer

In his new cookbook The Seasoned Vegetarian the Something For The Weekend regular shows how versatile vegetables can be 

New twists on vegetarian classics are just the job in Simon's new book 

Preparing vegetarian food can be a challenge as meat often takes centre stage in a meal. So Simon Rimmer's The Seasoned Vegetarian is quite an achievement, in being a vegetarian cookbook that doesn't feel like it's missing something.

Although best known for his TV work, Simon started his career running an award-winning vegetarian restaurant in Manchester and his new book is full of exciting recipes for non-meat eaters. These are handily broken down into more interesting categories than usual, under heading such as 'Small platefuls', 'Spicy platefuls' and 'Add ons'.

Recipes are globally inspired, but also influenced by dishes in his restaurant. The result is a collection which is unpretentious and surprising in its simplicity, with some veggie classics given a new twist.

Accompanying each recipe is an anecdote from Simon, which adds a charming personal touch.

Some dishes to get the tastebuds going include Asparagus spears with pecorino shortbread, Flatbread with pea paté, Potato pancakes with spiced beetroot and a heavenly Pear and almond tart with chocolate sauce.

The Seasoned Vegetarian by Simon Rimmer, published by Mitchell Beazley, Octopus Books, £14.99.