Appetizers

Zucchini Ribbons With Goat Cheese, French 75, and The Collected Regrets of Clover

September 18, 2025
editor
Pair Zucchini Ribbons with Goat Cheese with "The Collected Regrets of Clover" by Mikki Brammer for an exploration of life's vibrant and satisfying journeys. Complement this experience with a refreshing French 75 cocktail, whose citrus notes mirror the dish’s lemony tang, enhancing the freshness of both the reading and dining experience. This pairing invites deep reflection and culinary delight, making for a memorable evening that offers both delectable flavors and thoughtful perspectives.
Zucchini Ribbons With Goat Cheese

Ingredients

  • 4 medium zucchini
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil or mint, chopped
  • 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Pine nuts or slivered almonds, toasted (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Zucchini Ribbons: Using a vegetable peeler or mandoline, slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin ribbons. Stop when you reach the seeds in the center; you can save the core for another use.
  • Sauté the Zucchini: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the zucchini ribbons to the skillet and sauté for 2-3 minutes, tossing gently, until the zucchini is just tender but still has some bite. Be careful not to overcook.
  • Season the Zucchini: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Add the Goat Cheese: Transfer the zucchini ribbons to a serving dish and sprinkle with the crumbled goat cheese. Toss gently to combine.
  • Serve: Garnish with toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds if desired. Serve the Zucchini Ribbons with Goat Cheese warm or at room temperature.

The Collected Regrets of Clover

The Collected Regrets of Clover

A heartfelt exploration of life’s twists and turns through the lens of Clover, who helps others with their last words while struggling to find her own place in the world.
'Warm, profound, and expertly told . . . This is one of those special books that will leave a handprint on your heart.' Emma Brodie, author of Songs in Ursa Major 'This lovely and sweetly satisfying novel [is] engaging and accessible . . . Brammer's take on death and grieving is profound enough to feel genuinely instructional.' New York Times 'A sparkling debut . . . This is a wonderfully uplifting read.' Weekend Australian ——————————— In her work as a ‘death doula’, Clover Brooks ushers people peacefully through their last days, collecting their final words into three notebooks: ADVICE, CONFESSIONS and REGRETS. But Clover spends so much time with the dying that she’s forgotten how to live . . . Can her clients’ hard-won wisdom – and the inspiring love story of a spirited old woman named Claudia – show Clover the way to a happy ending? After all, what’s the point of giving someone a beautiful death if you can’t give yourself a beautiful life? ——————————— 'What a beautiful story . . . This book will be one that I remember for a long time, and it's a story that we can all learn something from.' Ruth Hogan, author of The Keeper of Lost Things 'A beautiful, uplifting novel about unexpected friendship, a decades-old love story, and finding the courage to live your best life.' Lucy Diamond, author of An Almost Perfect Holiday 'A heart-warming tale that offers a poignant message about the meaning of life, and death.' Sunday Age 'The suspense keeps the pages turning in a deliciously original story.' Daily Telegraph 'I couldn't put this book down . . . a tender, charming delight, perfect for anyone who loves The Authenticity Project or Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine.' K J Dell'Antonia, author of The Chicken Sisters

Discussion Questions

  • How does the theme of regret shape the characters' actions in the book?
  • In what ways does Clover’s job influence her personal life and choices?
  • Discuss how the author uses past events to illuminate Clover’s present journey.
  • How does the book address the concept of second chances?
  • What role do the secondary characters play in Clover’s understanding of herself?
  • How does the setting influence the mood and themes of the story?
  • What does Clover learn from the people she helps, and how does it affect her?
  • How does the book balance the themes of life, death, and personal growth?
  • In what ways does Clover’s journey resonate with the reader’s own life experiences?
  • Discuss the significance of the title "The Collected Regrets of Clover" in the context of the story.
Authors: Mikki Brammer
ISBN: 1234567890123
Publisher: Penguin Group Australia
Published Date: 2023-05-02

French 75

French 75
A classic and sophisticated cocktail that blends the zest of lemon with the crisp effervescence of champagne, making it a perfect companion for a light and refreshing dish.

Ingredients

  • 1 oz gin
  • 1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup
  • Champagne, to top

Instructions

  • Combine gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice.
  • Shake well and strain into a champagne flute.
  • Top with champagne and garnish with a lemon twist.