Grill Skills by Liselotte Forslin et al, a Review

It's “Book Review Sunday,” something that I started, well, today, actually, because I have a lot of books to recommend, and thought it might be nice to have a day set aside in which to do just that. Considering that we are getting into gift giving season (and if you are like me, you begin your shopping in September), you will appreciate the varied offerings that I will be bringing you each Sunday

First up, Grill Skills, Professional Tips for the Perfect Barbecue by Liselotte Forslin, et al. Now you may think that this is a strange time to mention a book on grilling, but in my neck of the woods where the summers are in the 90s, with weeks often in the 100s, and humidity routinely above the 50% range, I have to tell you that the last thing I want to do is fire up the grill. No, my grilling season begins in September when I can relax in a comfortable chair, sipping some cider, while listening to steaks sizzling on the grill. I think the authors of this book understand that, because this is a book for all seasons. It is also my favorite grilling book of all those I own.

This book doesn't just give you recipe after recipe for sauces and rubs, but provides instructions on how to achieve a delightful atmosphere while enjoying one of your favorite outdoor activities.

Along with wonderful, varied, and unique recipes, you will find suggestions for creating charming table settings, selecting the perfect flowers to match your special grilling occasion, choosing music, and pairing it all with delicious cocktails. There are recipes that will take you from appetizers all of the way to dessert, with informative text, and beautiful pictures. The tips and instructions are invaluable, the recipes sublime. I have become positively addicted to the Strawberry Salsa; the Triple Smoky Burger is heaven on a bun. Grilling fajitas was totally out of my realm, and, to be honest, I've never particularly been a fajita fan, but the Fajitas with Chicken Thigh Fillets and Guacamole changed all that.

Men and women alike are going to love this book. Trust me when I tell you that once you start making the recipes you find here, you will not be able to stop! It makes great use of seasonal produce turning it into soups, sauces, skewers, snacks, and desserts. My mouth is watering just thinking about the colorful and toothsome Grilled Bell Pepper Soup. You'll be swept away by the photos, appreciate all of the tips nestled throughout the book, adore the section on table settings, and completely won over by the recipes.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.