Carolina Gelen's debut cookbook is a dive into a world of easygoing yet delectable dishes. With an array of recipes for every meal, there's something for every palate within the pages of Pass the Plate. Hailing from Romania, Gelen emigrated to the U.S. to pursue her passion for creating online food content. Since then, through a consistent joy and diligence for her craft, she's established herself as a food influencer icon.
Readers and would-be chefs need not be intimidated--these recipes are delightfully approachable and curated in an undemanding manner. Especially helpful is the "get prepped" page at the beginning, in which Gelen provides useful hints and encourages cooks to make her creations their own, ensuring boundless opportunities for experimentation. Distinct Eastern European flavors underscore many of the dishes, as in the recipe for Turkish Eggs with Spiced Butter and Garlicky Yogurt or Spiced Tomato Stew with Poached Salmon and Olives.
Including snacks, dinners, desserts, and everything in between, this cookbook is packed with crowd-pleasers and niche flavors alike--a must-have for holiday dinners, potlucks, and nights in. --Jess Mayfield