The Planted Table (Vegetarian Recipes and Flavours from the Pacific Northwest Coast)

A vibrant celebration of Vancouver Island’s seasonal bounty, with flexible, plant-forward recipes rooted in place.

From misty cedar forests and shoreline foraging grounds to bustling farmers markets and island micro-farms, Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands offer one of North America’s richest local foodscapes. In this gorgeously photographed cookbook, bestselling author DL Acken invites readers to experience the flavours, traditions, and seasonal rhythms of the West Coast through a collection of vegetarian recipes.

Guided by a philosophy of cooking with what’s available, abundant, and close to home, the book embraces a flexible approach to plant-forward eating that is practical rather than prescriptive. Recipes are designed to adapt to the seasons and to the ingredients readers have on hand, making them equally suited to dedicated vegetarians, occasional meat-free cooks, and anyone seeking a deeper connection to local food.

Drawing inspiration from the region’s diverse communities, the recipes reflect the many influences that shape contemporary West Coast cooking. Foraged greens, seaweeds, heritage grains, orchard fruits, legumes, and locally produced dairy appear alongside techniques and flavours inspired by Coast Salish, Asian, South Asian, Middle Eastern, Caribbean, and other culinary traditions that have become an intrinsic part of the local food story.

Bound to the landscape yet relevant to sustainable eating everywhere, this collection captures the abundance of island life and shows you how to bring it to your own table.