By Paula Kane: I’ve been cycling most of my life. Like everyone else, I started on training wheels, moved on to a hand-me-down single speed with coaster brakes, then upgraded to an awesome 10-speed. After that, mountain bikes were all the rage, so at 15 I bought my first bike—a …

Contributor blog post by Paula Kane: My first week here has gone by in a flash. Perhaps because summer is always like that, or perhaps it was my fuzziness and lack of focus most of the week due to some lingering vertigo. Either way, it went by quickly with dinners and …

Contributor blog post by Paula Kane: I have a system, and for a decade it’s been running like clockwork. It’s an excellent plan, and one I am rather attached to. I look forward to it, like a ritual.  Although some people think I am a bit of a gypsy and rather …

This simple salad recipe combines slightly tart tomatoes with sweet, fresh figs (from your own tree if you are lucky enough). The figs counter-balance the acidity in the late-season tomatoes, and the cheese although optional adds some extra, creamy roundness to the flavours.

a new drink this summer – Lavender Mint Meyer Lemonade. It’s been unbelievably hot and sunny in Provence, pretty much non-stop. So this weather is a perfect time to sip while sitting in the shade, listening to cicadas while enjoying a gentle breeze. This lemonade is very refreshing and I am sure it has healing properties

In this simple tart I combine fresh, tasty tomatoes and local goat cheese. This one of my favourite savoury tarts when tomatoes are in season. It’s quite easy, served with a nice green salad

French walnuts are amazing, meaty, sweet, gorgeous.  So this is my attempt at recreating the best pain aux noix (walnut bread) I’ve ever had.

However the reality is many recipes are quick and easy to make including these classic Madelines. Baked off fresh right before serving is best and easy to do. This recipe is courtesy of Daniel Boulud, but I added a little vanilla. I love vanilla

My two favourites are mushroom with asiago and “tartiflette” with crème fraîche, caramelized onions, potatoes and lardons. When I go to Pizza Phil’s in Bédoin, and when I can’t get it, I make it myself. Perfect Pizza dough recipe (PDF) or print the version below.

Lapin à la Moutarde is quintessential French dish is quite simple and packed with flavour. I love the addition of crispy herbs for texture, and you can happily substitute pork (photograph above) if you are opposed to or cannot find rabbit.