Herring Salad.

Confession for confession, I'd rather have light Starters than heavy ones because I do want to keep my appetite for the other Courses. In Spring and Summer I enjoy Salads the most and in Winter something more consistant. As we say, it all depends on the weather.

Simple Caprese Salad. It consists of Tomatoes, Mozzarella, Basil and Seasoning. A dash of Virgin Olive Oil and a little Balsamic Vinegar.

One of my favourite Starters is the Caprese Salad. The unctuous softness of the Mozzarella meeting the sweet tanginess of the Tomatoes and the fragrant Basil, it is just a 'Tango à Trois' which dance in your palate. It can be very simply put upon a plate like the above picture or dressed to impress but one thing is sure is that it sings of Summer times.

Grilled Camembert with caramelised red Onions, Lambs Lettuce and toasted Garlic Bread slices.

During the cold days, Starters which warm you up are most welcomed. They can be hot or cold but as long as they are comforting they are a gentle stroke upon the palate. As I love Cheese, of course, melted or hot, Cheese does come often into a menu with slices of Bread to dip into or to spread upon.

Baked Camembert.

Another of my favourite Starters are Patés and Terrines. The beauty about them in question is of practicality: They can be prepared in advance.