Much anticipated, The Seaweed Cookbook by Mara's Co-Founder Xa Milne officially hit shelves on August 25th.

Published by Penguin/Michael Joseph, The Seaweed Cookbook offers both nutritional information and delicious recipes. It's the perfect guide for anyone tempted by this increasingly popular ingredient.

The Seaweed Cookbook was formally launched at two well-attended events; firstly in London then at a packed-out Botanic Cottage in the Royal Botanic Gardens in Edinburgh.

Xa said, "The Seaweed Cookbook is well and truly launched. Contributor, Elisabeth Luard (my all time Food God) came to the London launch, along with Restaurant critic AA Gill (The Times) and Carolyn Hart (Bread and Oysters). In Edinburgh I was put through my paces by Greg Kenicer, Head of Education (and Seaweed Expert) at the Royal Botanics Garden Edinburgh, with a question and answer session that proved good entertainment."

Xa has also been featured in several blogs discussing the book, including a piece in Bread and Oysters and with Scotland Food and Drink, as one of their food heroes.

As Mara fans will know, seaweed is the original super food, offering the broadest range of minerals of any food on the planet and myriad health benefits. An excellent source of vitamin C, protein and iron, seaweed also tastes delicious and is a brilliant flavour enhancer. The Seaweed Cookbook takes this trendy flavour phenomenon and showcases it in an array of delicious dishes.

From Spicy Pork Balls with Kombu to Mussel, Pea and Seaweed Broth, and Lean, Green Seaweed Tonic to Dulse and Banana Ice Cream, Xa offers simple seaweed-inspired recipes for all occasions. Seaweed is back on the menu.

Xa was kind enough to share recipes for her tabbouleh, popcorn and ginger loaf on the Mara site. Check them out to whet your appetite, then pick up a copy of The Seaweed Cookbook and stock up on Mara. It's time to get cooking with seaweed!