My brother's demon pasta

The other night I was exhausted and short on time so my brother volunteered to make a pasta for dinner. When I arrived, there was a splendorous smell in the air. Not only had he made food, but also a much loved starter: fried halloumi, now served with sliced plum cherry tomatoes and basil. I don't know why but the basil leaves a bizarrely great after taste reminiscent of gingerbread...

After enjoying the halloumi (as fresh off the pan as possible, before it goes all rubbery - I hate that!) were having spaghetti with red pesto, red onions, green and black olives, and cherry tomatoes, with grated parmesan on top. A quick demon mix of things he found in the fridge.

Plenty project: Royal potato salad

Plenty project, recipe #2. While new potatoes are still in season, it is imperative to try Ottolenghi's Royal Potato Salad. First, you make the pesto base (garlic, basil, parsley, pine nuts, parmesan and olive oil), then add freshly boiled new potatoes and peas, mint, white wine vinegar, salt and pepper, and you're done! So easy and so delicious. Ottolenghi also folds in some boiled quail's eggs, but those can be left out too if you ask me. I served a fist-sized portion of this on top of a large bed of lettuce, and it was a very filling meal. A great summer food, ideal for picnics or the like. The leftovers also made a perfect lunch the next day.