Cookbook uses foodbank fare

Gillian Tustin has put together a cookbook which combines the science of nutrition with the art of creating interesting food. Photo / George Novak

A Mount Maunganui dietitian has compiled a cookbook full of nutritious meals created using items donated to the Tauranga Community Foodbank.

Best Ever Foodbank Cookbook - A Dish in One provides 16 recipes for different meals, including meals without meat and sweet treats.

The first 300 copies, which will be printed within the next two weeks, feature artwork by Year 4 pupils at Green Park Primary School.

Gillian Tustin, who has been volunteering at the foodbank for about five years, wrote the cookbook to show people using the service how to make the most of the food provided.

"We decided it would be useful to help people use the food they get more creatively. I think one of the things about dietitians is they try to combine the science of nutrition with the art of serving interesting food, so all the recipes are low in fat and low in salt," she said.

The recipes can be made from items which are found on the shelves of the foodbank including sausages, beans and lentils and canned fish.

"All the recipes have basic ingredients and only a few ingredients in each recipe ... and the cooking methods are all really simple," Mrs Tustin said.

Foodbank manager Nicki Goodwin said the cookbook would be given to those who needed it.

"The reason we are not selling it is because we are wanting it to go to people who need that advice.

"We wouldn't expect people to pay for that. We will also share it with other community organisations.

"We had a good look at what we were putting into our food parcels and made sure we were providing things to make an actual meal with.

"We have made sure that if you had no food at home you could make at least one meal and then other ideas if you had other bits and bobs in your pantry."