Celebrity chef Simon Rimmer from Something for the Weekend has always flown under my radar when it comes to inspiration for family meals. But boredom with St Jamie of Oliver caused me to seek inspiration elsewhere

And now I have to say, having tested a couple of his recipes this week - posh beans on toast and quick sausage casserole, I think I'm going to buy his book. Tasty, nutritious meals that are reasonably quick to assemble.

Has anyone else been pleasantly surprised by recipes written by a chef they often ignore?

I like Simon Rimmer. His recipes are a bit different and he has great personality and presenting skills. I first noticed him as a regular on UKTV Great Food Live - he was excellent on that show with Jeni Barnett.

As for recipes, I have jotted down and tried several recipes, usually from unknown guest chefs on shows like this. Australian cooks impress me. Their ideas can be very fresh and appealing.

I remember him on UKTV - Jeni Barnett was a hoot.

It seems I[ve ignored Simon for so long. I watch Something for the Weekend most Sundays and have often been inspired by his brunch menus just never taken the plunge until now - I must send a picture of my efforts to the BBC

As for Aussie chefs I have a couple of Bill Granger books - his chinese crispy duck is a family favourite

You really should send photos of your efforts to the show Shazzy, I'm sure Simon (or indeed any chef) would be chuffed.

I'm also a fan of Bill Granger and I love the Australian Woman's
Weekly cook books (google for their website) lovely ideas on there. It must be the great melting pot of cultures down under.

I've had The Accidental Vegetarian for ages now and there are some cracking recipes in it. Especially love the Patatas Bravas and the Moroccan Spaghetti.

I like Bill Grangers recipes. He also wins the award for campest TV chef ever!

It amazes me to see him with his wife and kids, he's SO CAMP. I do like his recipes alot. Really clean flavours and easy to do!

LOL I agree - and he's brave enough to cook up cute little cup cakes too - couldn't see Gordon baking cup cakes but I may be wrong

I love him - he just smiles at everything. Must admit, I thought he was gay? !

Join a very long queue of people who thought that - me included....

Anyway back to Simon Rimmer - he does a lot of fishy food, so thats switched me off a bit, but he is a good presenter, and makes it look easy. If Tim Lovejoy can do it.....

I've just put my order in for the book below -


http://www.amazon.co.uk/Lazy-Brunch-.../dp/1844005933