Cottage Cooking

The idea for The Essential Cottage Cookbook came to me one weekend at my family cottage. I had two days on my own, without my husband, kids or parents in tow, and I woke up one morning thinking about the important role food plays in my summer memories. Everything tastes better—fresher, more vibrant, spectacularly special. Even the simplest meals are improved just by being there.

- Andrea Buckett

I know I’m not alone in these memories and feelings. People from coast to coast share similar experiences—whether it’s at a cottage, a cabin or a camp—that have shaped their histories, their families and themselves. No matter if you return to the same place each summer or seek out new ones to rent, these recipes are made for the cottages you know and the ones you don’t.

No-Bake Kettle Chip “Nachos”

PREP 5 MIN; TOTAL 10 MIN

SERVES 4 This recipe is a great way to fancy up a bag of salted kettle chips. The cast of fresh, herby, tangy, salty and creamy characters might seem odd, but they add just the right balance of flavours to plain crunchy chips.

½ cup sour cream

1 tbsp lemon juice

½ tsp pepper

1 200-g bag plain kettle chips

2 tbsp tangy dill relish

3 tbsp rainbow trout roe

2 tbsp chopped fresh chives

2 tbsp chopped fresh dill

1 tbsp minced jalapeno pepper

1. In a bowl, combine the sour cream, lemon juice and pepper.

2. Arrange the chips in one layer on a platter or baking sheet. Dollop the sour cream mixture evenly over the chips, followed by the relish. Scatter the roe, chives, dill and jalapeno over top. Serve immediately.

Bright and Briny Tomato Salad

PREP 10 MIN; TOTAL 15 MIN

SERVES 6 TO 8 There is no meal that wouldn't benefit from a large platter of seasonal tomatoes. Inspired by bruschetta, thick slices of the best tomatoes you can find are topped with a mix of bright, assertive flavours like red onion, black olives and garlic. The result is an outstanding snack when served with slices of grilled bread, or a beautiful side dish paired with your favourite barbecue meal.