king prawn and vegetable pilaf.

A really simple seafood recipe which is light, healthy and flavoursome. Above all, it's really easy to rustle up. There are lots of interpretations of the pilaf, ranging from Central Asian or Middle Eastern areas, namely Turkish to Persian. It's said that one of the best interpretations of a pilaf is found in the best Emiriti restaurants of Dubai, where saffron, turmeric, cinnamon, thyme and cardamom season the likes of machboos, shakshuka, pilaf and curries, with great recommendations from Square Meal UAE. Al Fanar, Zaroob and Seven Sands sound particularly appealing, serving up the likes of Emirati pancakes, manakeesh flatbreads and lamb machboos, as well a mouthwatering desserts showcasing the traditional flavours of dates, saffron and cardamom.

In simple terms, what defines a pilaf from a Spanish paella or Indian biriyani for me is the use of rice and choice of ingredients. So this cheat recipe uses the likes of warming cardamom, cinnamon, lemon, turmeric and cumin for that distinctive colour and flavour of the Middle East. I've read they sometimes feature saffron too, if you're feeling fancy.

the bank on college green, dublin.

The Bank on College Green aims to serve a farm-to-table menu in an upscale, genuine and relaxed atmosphere. As the name suggests, this Dublin based restaurant has its settings in an old Victorian bank. Lavish, opulent and grand, the interior speaks of high ornate ceilings, stained glass, marble pillars and warm gold finishes. Square Meal IE describe the atmosphere as big, bold, dark and moody - and they aren't wrong. With an elegant bar and mezzanine the main focal point of the restored Irish bank, this restaurant instantly felt very special.

fishmore hall, ludlow.

In a stunning Shropshire setting, you'll find Fishmore Hall nestled in the counryside, just a short walk from Ludlow. The grand, yet quaint, white building has a welcoming entrance and even more welcoming staff. Myself and a girl friend went along to enjoy the seasonal menu and luxury bedrooms as well as make use of the spa and potter around the local village.

easter mini egg and malteaster bunny brownies.

An indulgent Easter brownie recipe, with melt-in-the-mouth Malteaster bunnies, crunchy Mini Eggs and sweet hits of white chocolate. This is my go-to (accidentally gluten free) brownie recipe, with an April twist. The secret is adding the bunnies to the top of the brownies right at the end, so they slightly melt whilst still keeping that signature crunch. Hoppy Easter!

easter bunny rabbit macarons.

A cute, bunny shaped treat for Easter. I just couldn't resist creating some rabbit shaped macarons for the occasion, filled with moreish Nutella chocolate spread. 

the queen's head, belton, leicestershire.

Found in the Leicestershire countryside, The Queen's Head is a cosy pub and restaurant that boasts five refurbished rooms. The Belton based establishment pride themselves on using the best ingredients and local producers to create seasonal menus mostly inspired by British and European cuisine. The bar area is dog friendly, whilst the restaurant has a more modern and refined feel for birthday meals, special occasions and date nights alike.