Cookbook: Simply Zov—Rustic Classics with a Mediterranean Twist

the appetizer:

Simply Zov: Rustic Classics with a Mediterranean Twist by Zov Karamardian includes recipes like Coconut Chicken Chowder with Lemongrass; Torte Milanese with Spinach; and Lentil Patties with Tomato and Cucumber.

Simply Zov
Rustic Classics with a Mediterranean Twist

by Zov Karamardian

Click to buy Simply Zov

Zov Karamardian's new book, Simply Zov: Rustic Classics with a Mediterranean Twist makes the tempting world of garden-fresh cooking easier than ever without spending hours in the kitchen. As a follow up to her best-selling cookbook, Zov: Recipes and Memories from the Heart, the acclaimed chef and restaurateur's new book offers a simple and easy approach to cooking.

"I wanted this cookbook to be perfect for someone who is busy with the family and on a budget, but want to use farm-fresh ingredients in their cooking," Zov explains. "My recipes are easy and cost-effective; most of them can be prepared ahead of time, while introducing home cooks to new flavors."

While the base ingredients in Zov's recipes are items most home cooks already have in their pantry, Zov aims to introduce cooks to some new flavors and ingredients. "My pantry is never without some of my favorite herbs and spices, such as harissa, allspice, cayenne pepper, red pepper paste, garlic and ginger. But I never miss a chance to search through the spice isle at the supermarket because I never know what I may find. It is my hope that home cooks will feel that same sense of adventure when preparing recipes from the book." Simply Zov combines the flavors and spices of Zov's Mediterranean heritage with more traditional American fare.

Whether an experience chef or novice, Simply Zov will help anyone create fresh and delicious, affordable meals. Some of the recipes, each beautifully illustrated with full color photos, found in the book include:

Leeks and Goat Cheese

Ultimate Risotto with Fresh Peas

Koufta

Tuscan Eggplant Parmesan

Spicy Pomegranate-Glazed Chicken Wings

Spicy Ground Meat Kebabs

Beef Brochettes with Garlic-Thyme Marinade

Grilled Ginger-Lime Chicken Thighs with Harissa

Seared Ahi with Edamame

Zov's Silky Macaroni and Cheese

Simple Poached Pears

Quince Coffee Cake

Jewel Jam Cookies

Zov's earliest memories are of her family seated around the dinner table sharing food, stories and love. All of her heartwarming recipes were created to bring that family togetherness to dinner tables everywhere. The easy-to-follow recipes have Zov's "do-ahead" tips and kitchen notes for alternative ideas. This unique collection runs the gamut from breakfast to desserts; unique chicken, fish and beef entrées, to remarkable appetizers, soups and salads.

About the Author

Zov Karamardian opened her first restaurant, Zov's Bistro in Tustin, CA in 1987. Zov learned much of her craft from her friend and mentor, Julia Child. Zov hosts cooking classes at her restaurant and invites renowned chefs to share their knowledge. Guest chefs have included Emeril Lagasse, Jacques Pépin, Anne Burrell, and Julia Child. Zov travels the world finding new spices, herbs and recipes to share with her fans. She has devoted much of her time and resources to causes she believes in. The State of California named her Chef of the Year and the American Diabetes Association named her Woman of Valor. Zov has been featured in numerous newspapers and magazines across the United States and is a frequent guest on radio talk shows and television. She has opened new restaurants in Newport Beach and Irvine, and in 2012, Zov's Bistro will be opening in two terminals of John Wayne International Airport in Orange County, California.