In Provence, recipes change in concert with the seasons, matching available ingredients and the temperatures. In larger centres like Aix-en-Provence, Avignon and Marseille, the daily markets inspire professional chefs and anyone cooking dinner at home. The classic French onion might spring to mind when you think of French soups, but …

In reality, cooking with lavender isn’t au fait with the locals, but used with subtlety and restraint, the perfume of Provence pairs perfectly with the more traditional native ingredients – garlic, honey and oil – for this simple dressing. Serve with lots of bread for scooping up the juices. This …

In the summer’s heat, no-cook cooking takes precedence over any other type of cooking. Using the best and ripest tomatoes is essential when making this refreshing summer starter, and there’s certainly no shortage of those in the height of summer down south. Make this the day ahead for the flavours …

For me, cooking and gardening are two passions that go hand in hand. This year I planted a lot more fennel than I usually do, and I have been coming up with ways to use up all the extra harvest. My latest creation is a Chickpea and Fennel Salad simple …

One of my favourite things is going to the farmers market on Sunday morning with the menu set for the week and my shopping list in hand. There is a sense of purpose, of complete control. That is until I see the beautiful baby eggplants next to the perfectly ripe …

Summer is not the time of year to be behind a hot stove or pulling casseroles out of an oven. It is, however, the time to prepare simple recipes perfect for outdoor dining, whether at your table, poolside or the next picnic location. Provence is generally hot in the summer, …

This Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is incredibly easy to make at home. I was craving vegetables when I photographed this version, so I made it with a higher ratio of vegetables to chickpeas. Despite the recipe given below, it is best to follow your own passions and add whatever you like. …

Regardless of where you spend your summer, it should mean less time in the kitchen so that you can enjoy the weather. On a hot day, the last place you want to be is behind a stove, which is why a summer salad is an ideal light meal.  This recipe …

If there is a drink that defines the best of summer living, it has to be homemade lemonade. And Provencal rosé! So if you are looking for a recipe for a refreshing drink for hot weather, try this lavender lemonade from the Okanagan Lavender & Herb Farm. Dedicated to making …

The Eastern part of Provence had long been Italian, so it would be no surprise that tomato mozzarella would be a summer dish often served in restaurants from Avignon to Nice on the French Riviera. Below is my easy recipe for the perfect summer salad – Tomato Mozzarella. Add local …