Greekish: Everyday Recipes with Greek Roots

In this casual and creative cookbook, Hayden (Nistisima) offers over 100 recipes influenced by her Greek Cypriot heritage and travels, aiming for “low effort, high-reward” family-friendly fare. Savory and sweet breakfast options include some double-duty recipes: meatballs in chili tomatoes with eggs can serve as a “hangover-busting brunch” or a tasty dinner, while baklava French toast is a sweet morning treat that, Hayden notes, also makes a decadent dessert. Alongside classic Greek flavors, there’s plenty that’s new and intriguing, including grilled watermelon in a “breakfast salad” with sesame seeds, mint, and pistachio, and spanakopita fritters. In the “Things on Sticks” chapter, Hayden presents the expected pork and lamb kebabs as well as some exciting vegetarian options, such as halloumi and tomato kebabs drizzled in honey. Main meals for weekdays or entertaining include braised sausage, lentils, and fennel; an impressive whole roast cabbage with spiced butter; and the more involved kreatopites, little filo-wrapped meat pies. Home cooks in the U.S. should be aware that Hayden uses metric measurements (with a conversion chart at the back of the book), as well as some Britishisms, such as “hob” for stove top. She’s a sure-handed guide through potentially unfamiliar ingredients and provides a handy list of sources for hard-to-find specialty ingredients. This inviting collection will appeal to anyone interested in expanding their Mediterranean repertoire. (June)