Taste This! by Gina von Esmarch
I had the pleasure of testing a new cookbook written by San Francisco-based chef (and mom blogger) Gina von Esmarch. Gina comes from a foodie family; in fact, her grandparents founded, and her family still runs, the famous Aliotos on Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco.
Gina’s new cookbook called Taste This! is perfectly suited for this working-mom who would love to be on Top Chef, but is content cooking for her family and friends. Gina’s collection of recipes for appetizers, entrees, salads, drinks and (amazing) desserts are both flavorful and (hallelujah!) easy to prepare.
Let me just say this: when it comes to a dinner party, I am an appetizer girl because I believe the appetizer sets the tone for the evening. We always open our best bottle of wine first, so it’s important to serve good food from the moment a dinner party begins. Gina provides some great ideas, here are my favorites:
- Red Grapes & Red Onions – roasted grapes and onion, served on goat cheese, with crackers or bread. This dish is super-easy to prepare, with delicious flavors and perfect texture. Rave reviews at my last dinner party! (Recipe is on page 11of the book.)
- Cucumber Pillows — cucumbers, bread, spices (think funky finger sandwiches). Light, refreshing and beyond easy to make. (Recipe is on page 15 of the book.)
- Parmesan Crisps — bread, cheese, garlic, olive oil. This recipe makes little slices of cheesy-Heaven. (Recipe is on page 21 of the book.)
If you are intrigued, check out posts from other foodies:
Author Gina says: “The goal of Taste This! is simple, bring good food and good flavors back to the table. Whether you are a working parent or a career individual that wants to bring people together at the table, you will find ideas to inspire your inner cook.”
Thank you, Gina. I am inspired!
Click HERE to purchase Taste This! for $30 (includes S&H).
- LTV Mom
Just trying to squeeze in some television between mothering, working and crashing.
