"The book to accompany the new Food Network Canada show." Acclaimed chef Ricardo launched his new 26-episode Food Network Canada series, "Ricardo and Friends," in October 2006. In each episode, Ricardo cooks a three-course home meal for a group of friends, proving that it's easy to entertain while cooking simple, accessible and fun meals. Along the way, Ricardo explains the health and nutritional properties of the recipe, and shares his tips. "Ricardo and Friends" airs three times weekly. Look for his magazine, "Ricardo," a favorite already in Quebec and now available coast to coast in English. Published five times a year, it includes recipes from "Ricardo and Friends." This cookbook by the first French Canadian with a show on the Food Network allows home cooks to enjoy a superb compilation of over 140 recipes, wine recommendations and stunning food photography. Inspired by intimate gatherings on weekends with family and friends, Weekend Cooking designs menus to awaken readers' appetites. Among the selections: Ricotta-stuffed pancakes with orange sauce Sweet potato soup with apples and cloves Lasagna with eggplant caviar and grilled sweet red peppers Cold salmon roast with shrimp and vegetable stuffing Chicken supremes stuffed with ricotta and dried tomatoes Sublime coconut cake. Home cooks will not want to miss out on this exceptional book by the Food Network's newest face.