A can of Slim Fast.  Salad, dressing on the side, chased by a Diet Coke.  A handful of your kid's McDonald's fries following an after school drive-through run.  Lean Cuisine and half a pint of Ben & Jerry's Chunky Monkey straight from the freezer while nobody is watching.

Zucchini and Fresh Goat Cheese Frittata with a cafe au lait.  Endive and Avocado Gazpacho for lunch.  An afternoon gouter of a square of dark chocolate on baguette.  Sea Bass with Celeriac-Mint Salsa, Leek Parmesan, and a nice Fume Blanc for dinner.

Hmm...

Last night, I attended a book launch for "the French Women Don't Get Fat Cookbook."  Author Mireille Guiliano, a former Veuve Cliquot exec, has built a "petite maison" industry on teaching the French way to remain slim and chic while wining and dining, within moderation.

The charming Mme. Guiliano spoke to a captive audience about the Gallic way of life.  Denizens of what Guiliano refers to as "non-Anglo Saxon countries" share a passion for well-prepared cuisine, fine wine, and a regime of destination walking.  The French would prefer to prepare a potage from farmer's market vegetables than to purchase a more costly store bought variety.

Mme. Guiliano's cookbook is a follow-up to her first three books, "Women, Work, and the Art of Savoir Faire," "French Women Don't Get Fat," and "French Women for All Seasons." 

Recipes for Provencal Omelet, French Toast Edward Style, Tagliatelle with Leeks and Proscuitto, and Spiced Chocolate Mousse abound in this delightful guide which also includes tips about entertaining and champagne.

Like most authors promoting a diet, Mme. Guiliano has a few tips up her stylish sleeve.  A beloved aunt inspired the recipe for Magical Breakfast Cream, a French-style Muesli.  Magical Leek Broth, Guliano's claim to fame, provides a detox for le weekend.

I'm hoping "The French Women Don't Get Fat Cookbook" keeps me svelte and chic while enjoying Scallops Maison Blanche and a nightly glass of Veuve Cliquot!

Bon Appetit!