The flavors of the kitchen, the experience of creating, the joy of sharing. Many of our favorite memories start with friends and family gathering over a beautiful meal, sharing their love and laughter.
Never before has an opportunity to share with you meant so much to me as a chef and member of our human family. As a five-time cancer survivor, I know just how precious life is and am grateful for every day I have to share my kitchen wisdom with you. Whatever chance you have, open your home and your heart to friends and family, creating the gift of a new memory. Take that bite out of life now!
Open your life to all types of gifts. For me, the greatest gift I can give someone is a meal. When I take special care with a recipe, pouring all my love into every step, and finishing the plate with specific detail, I am telling that recipient, Thank you for being here—you matter, and I care. It’s my gift of love, friendship, and fellowship.
Most of us remember our mom’s party food: pigs in a blanket, port-wine cheese and crackers, maybe a slow cooker filled with Swedish meatballs. Small Bites Big Flavor pays homage to these iconic dishes but are twisted into modern tastes that are simple to prepare yet will wow your guests. Each of the recipes has options to make the dishes uniquely yours.
It’s these childhood memories that often inspire the meals we make. My grandma and mom cooking for me were some of the most calming times for a kid living in a chaotic world. My grandma’s honey cake (page 194) and my mom’s kalamata hummus (page 86) are culinary touchstones that never fail to make me smile.
Thank you for allowing me to share this book with you. Every recipe is written with love and the hope that you will take time out of your crazy-busy life to create fun, inspired memories for your friends and families.
Live in the moment, and fire it up!
Eric