citrus fresh tabbouleh

I think it's safe to say we have left behind winter and perhaps even spring. The mornings are lighter and brighter, the evenings are longer and balmy and I am buying linen dresses and beach bags like they're going out of fashion. 

           

A few early birthday purchases to bring a spot of vibrancy to my everyday look. 

And so with the warmth comes a new eating regime. Bye-bye winter soups and pies, hello summer salads and mezzes. If you follow me on Instagram  you will have noticed I have been raving about Comptoir Libanais a LOT recently. I know, I know, it's hardly a hush-hush secret, but by god it's delicious. So here is a little recipe inspired by my visit with mum a few weeks ago. 

You will need: 

1 Romaine lettuce
A good handful of coriander
2 spring onions
1/8 cucumber
1/2 cup of couscous 
1/2 squeezed lemon & zest
Pinch salt & pepper
Glug of olive oil


Make your couscous in a bowl with a plate over the top- I won't even tell you how to make this as it's so basic, a baby could make it. Remember to season it with a little salt. 

Make the dressing by mixing a glug of olive oil, squeeze of half a lemon, a little zest and salt and pepper. 

                 

Finely chop your lettuce, coriander, onion and cucumber and mix together in the bowl of dressing. Add your perfectly fluffy couscous and give it a good stir.

  

  

 

  

And that's it! It's so simple, yet delicious. Fresh, light and zingy- eat it on it's own or as a side. I like to make a large batch at the beginning of the week and take it to work for lunch. Try crumbling some salty feta into it for a tasty lunch option, or grilling succulent chicken for a light evening meal. 

 

The options are endless and it really does pack a punch. What are you eating now the season has turned?

Have a wonderful Bank Holiday! 



L. 

mothers & daughters

This really will be the shortest of posts but it was such a lovely day I just have to share it with you. Plus there is a cafe recommendation too. 

My lovely mummy came down to London on Wednesday and I joined her for an afternoon in the blazing sunshine. She is a teacher and has been enjoying a well earned rest and thought a visit to the capital (and to see me) was the order of the day. Having worked for the morning I hopped and skipped down to Sloane Square to meet her in Peter Jones. There she was rummaging through the fabrics, finding all kinds of pointless, but beautiful, things to bring home with her. 

After kisses and hugs we headed to Duke of York Square for lunch at Comptoir Libanais. Oh wow. This was just so delicious and perfect for a light lunch on a hot day. We ordered the mezze to share and long cool lemonades. 

         

I think I'm going to try and attempt baba gannoush at home and maybe even some falafels too. I've already made the tabbouleh and it was crisp and zingy. I will share the recipe with you soon. 

We laughed and gossiped about everything- a well executed catch up. 

   

   

Yummy mummy!

We then wound our way up to South Kensington and the V&A to look at the jewels. I think we're both magpies... 

The afternoon followed with tea and cake and then drinks with the American, soaking up the last of the rays.

A perfect midweek treat with my beautiful mum.

L.

easter & st. pauls

A snapshot of our little Easter in London. 

We started the day with Mattins at St. Paul's; a very sun-drench sight to behold. 

   

   

Dressed in our Sunday best we trotted back home to cook a feast of guinea fowl, butternut squash soufflé and seasonal asparagus. 

   

   

   

We attempted to marble some duck eggs but they didn't take very well- a shame considering how much effort went into blowing them. Oh well, next time! 

For the record, guinea fowl is delicious and perfect for dinner for two, with enough meat left over for sandwiches the next day. I shall be cooking it again. 

I hope you have all enjoyed soaking up the rays, cheering along your chosen boat and winning on the horses this weekend- it really has been a bumper lot. 

L. 

roaming richmond

You may have noticed my absence from the blogosphere. It seems my brain has been frazzled by words- copywriting all day everyday is rather taking its toll. By the time I get home I frequently forget how to a sentence write. But now it is the weekend and I have lots to share with you! 

Easter has been and gone (how did that even happen?) and I am stuffed to the gills with Lindt Bunny, cake and all kinds of naughty things. But with all the indulgence also comes a blissful four-day weekend. It really is what dreams are made of, having traipsed through the bleak winter. 

Richmond Park was the order of the day- a little rural retreat to escape to after a busy winter in the city. 

   

           

Hello deer! My new best friends ^^^

                 

   

I love being able to find green so close to London. My farmer roots get a little frustrated when the hard Tarmac of the city takes over. I need to don my wellies, splash in puddles and climb a tree or two. Thankfully Richmond is the perfect stomping ground. 

                  

 

  

              

Nice pink umbrella! 

After our fun-filled walk we were in need of a beverage or two. We wound our way to a little pub by the river. 

   

   

   

   

   

I had to stop here for a good amount of time whilst the American had a little perv over the Morgan. I rather liked the Mini- never forget the little guy! 

   

Perhaps the most idyllic row of houses. We both decided we fancied living here. My property list is getting out of hand! 

   

   

A proper roaring fire to warm our toes and noses. 

   

No frills, no fuss- a charming little pub just down from the high street. 

We will be back.

L.