Who's Your Audience

Try-it-Tuesday: Williams-Sonoma Essentials of Mediterranean



The Essentials of Mediterranean is a new cookbook now on the shelves of Williams-Sonoma. I have been researching Mediterranean cooking for quite some time with not a lot of luck. Then, while shopping for a birthday present, I ran across this gem. I promptly placed it on my own birthday list and my sister bought it for me.

This book defines the Mediterranean as any country that borders the Mediterranean sea. So, you have recipes that reflect the best of Spain, Italy, Lebanon, Greece, Turkey, Egypt, Morocco, and many others. This fusion cuisine entices the palate while pumping up your HDL. Each recipe looks relatively easy to prepare and is accompanied by a picture, which always helps me tremendously!

I have tried two of the recipes thus far. The first was a shrimp, feta, and tomato medley. The sauce rendered from the blend of tomatoes and feta was creamy and delicious. Had I served the dish in a small sourdough bread bowl, it would have been in my top five of all time.

The second dish I made was a side of lemon oregano potatoes. Just a few ingredients—lemon, olive oil, oregano, garlic, salt, pepper—and you have yourself a delectable side dish fit for any fall or winter table.

A lot of folks snub their nose at anything but cheese wiz. If you're one of those, I say open your mind and expand your palate. Your senses may just thank you!