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If you're looking to grow authentic Italian basil and tomatoes for that summer salad under the trees (perhaps, served with slices of yummy mozzarella and drizzled with olive oil), then check out Italian Seeds Pronto. This is a small company that "brings old world flavour to the new world" with its exclusive range of vegetable and herb heirloom seeds from Franchi - the oldest family-run seed company in the world. For over 225 years their seeds have been carefully passed from generation to generation and sold on to gardeners, chefs and travelling foodies. Now you can order the range - there are more than 70 heirloom varieties available - directly through distributors here in New Zealand. Organic seed packs $8/other seed packs $6.90. Ph: (06) 758 4190 or italianseedspronto.ihug.co.nz.
Saucey Stuff
Fans of the Kato range of sauces will be delighted to know they have just launched a whole new range of products in time for summer. Try the new range of dressings - including Caesar, Asian and aged Balsamic - which come in handy pouches or the new selection of chutneys and relishes such as the BBQ & Burger Relish, The Caramelised Red Onion Jam with fig and Fruits of the Forest Chutney with plum and cherry. From $3.99 at most supermarkets.
Do Your Bit
Chances are when you go out to eat over the next month, you'll be asked to add an extra $2 to your bill. It's all part of an international charity called DineAid which is aimed to raise money for families in need. Leading Kiwi chef Mark Gregory, who lived and worked in the UK for many years saw a similar concept start there and roll out into other countries including the States, South Africa and Australia. So far over $9 million dollars has been raised internationally. Here in Auckland restaurants taking part include The French Cafe, Clooneys, Dine, Q, Bracu, The Engine Room and more. "It's a simple and painless way to make a big difference," says Gregory. www.dineaid.org.nz
Lots of bottle
With the temperatures starting to rise it's all-important to keep up your intake of water, and there's nothing more chic than keeping a bottle of designer water in the fridge. Aquadeli on Mt Eden Rd is one of our favourite places for interesting and intriguing waters such as Lauquen (pictured) which is sourced from a mountain-fed aquifer in southern Patagonia. With a neutral pH and low mineral content, Lauquen is an ideal drop to serve when fine dining. $67.20 for 12 750ml bottles. Aquadeli, 4/66 Mt Eden Road. Ph 638 7347.
Grumbly tummies
You just need to look at the cover image - hot chocolate being dribbled over a cake - of Jo Seagar's new book The Cook School Recipes ($45: Random) and you'll start to salivate. From her cooking school in Oxford, Canterbury - apparently booked out nine months ahead - Seagar has compiled an impressive range of recipes and cooking tips which, with beautiful photographs by Jae Frew, will inspire all foodies.
