Over 200 inspirational dishes for every occasion include energizing breakfasts, mid-morning treats, fresh and simple lunches, nutritious snacks, evening meals, desserts and last-minute entertaining. An at-a-glance menu planner also suggests combinations and easy starters and desserts to create a three-course meal that can still be put together in under half an hour from start to finish.

An expert introduction explains the art of fuss-free cooking, and how 'fast' food does not mean compromising health and nutrition, nor taste and enjoyment. Short-cuts for speedy cooking are given and lists of the storecupboard basics that mean a ready meal can always be to hand. Succulent meats can be glazed, sauces whipped up, and warm noodles tossed with spices in less time than it takes to heat up a ready-packaged meal in the oven.

There are recipes in the book to suit every kind of meal and appetite, from a simple smoked salmon and chive omelette for an indulgent midday lunch, to a quick yet classic dish of mussels in white wine for supper. There are fantastic ideas for rustling up quick but unusual accompaniments, such as creamy polenta with dolcelatte, and perfect speedy party dishes as chilli-spiced chicken wings. Home-made delights like grilled pineapple and rum cream will leave the frozen supermarket desserts sitting on the shelf.

Step-by-step guidance and over 800 colour photographs including beautiful images of every dish make the recipes easy to choose and easy to use. This cookbook helps you keep stress, mess and fuss to a minimum in the kitchen and to spend more time eating and enjoying your meals.