The Greengrocer's Kitchen: Vegetables and Herbs

Jo-Anne Mary Benson, the former book review columnist for Ottawa Parent
magazine, is an Ottawa-based freelance editor and writer.

Pete Luckett has filled a popular niche with a cookbook that examines
the fascinating world of produce. Health-conscious consumers will be
inspired by his unique exploration of the world of vegetables and herbs.
His recipes have a gourmet flare but require only basic cooking
techniques.

Luckett began his training as a greengrocer in England at the age of
16. Since that time, he has moved to New Brunswick and expanded his
small-produce stall into several booming wholesale and retail businesses
in the Maritimes. He is frequently in demand as a guest speaker to share
his experiences, business savvy, and produce knowledge.

One of the most surprising features of this cookbook is that it
contains an abundance of excellent reading materials and instructional
information. Organized alphabetically, from artichokes and asparagus to
watercress and zucchini, The Greengrocer’s Kitchen makaes an
invaluable reference source. The reader gains insight into such things
as the history, appearance, and flavor of each vegetable.

Those who like to experiment with new things will learn about the less
popular vegetables or those relatively new to North America. Luckett
introduces appealing dishes using jicama (Mexico), radicchhio (Italy),
bok choy (Asia), and okra (Africa). One can experiment with tantalizing
combinations, such as Rosemary and Rutabaga Puffs, Cilantro Yogurt
Sauce, and Linguine with Fiddleheads. As a bonus, many of the recipes
offer alternative cooking methods, nutritional information, and
different preparation techniques.

The majority of the recipes use ingredients readily available
ingredients from local supermarkets and simple, short, step-by-step
directions. The final 20 pages explore the world of herbs with the same
coverage and detail afforded the vegetables.

With its healthy meal suggestions and usefulness as a reference tool,
The Greengrocer’s Kitchen should give readers many years of pleasure.
Highly recommended for both individuals and public libraries.