Under the Olive Tree

Recipes from my Greek Kitchen

Under the Olive Tree is much more than a cookbook to me — it’s a family record, a way of preserving the food and memories that shaped my life. Every recipe has roots in the kitchens of my mother, my grandmother, and generations before them. When I wrote the book, I wasn’t simply gathering dishes together; I was documenting a heritage of flavours, stories, and traditions.

The recipes are, at their heart, all traditional Greek dishes. But just as I did on MasterChef, I felt it was important to elevate them — to bring them to the page in a way that was lighter, more playful, and more adventurous. This is how I like to cook Greek food: with respect for tradition, but also with joy, curiosity, and a willingness to surprise.

The book includes over 80 recipes, from everyday breakfasts and simple suppers to salads that taste of sunshine, and on to feasts for Easter, Christmas, and special gatherings. I’ve also included an entertaining section full of tips and ideas for when you have time to impress.

What gives me the greatest joy is when readers send me photos of what they’ve cooked and tell me how much they loved the dishes. That feedback reminds me that I wrote this book not for myself, but for everyone who wants to bring the warmth, flavour, and spirit of Greece into their own kitchen.