"I love the recipes in this book! Even though I work long days, I want to prepare delicious meals for my family and entertain friends. These recipes are quick and easy to make." - Dr. Maria Secaras Who is the “Joyful Cook”? You may say it’s the author, but in reality it’s you. Each of you have the potential to become a “Joyful Cook” of Greek Cuisine. This book is not just a cookbook, but a guide to help those at various levels of expertise find their niche in Greek Cooking. This Guide will give you the skills and techniques you need to develop the confidence in preparing each recipe which is integral to your success. Each of these recipes have been personally prepared and tasted by the author. Furthermore, they have been prepared, tested and tasted by hundreds of students in the author’s more than 30 years of experience in offering Greek Cooking Schools, Greek Festival Cooking Demonstrations, and Academic and Community group presentations. A total of 15 Chapters of recipes are within this Guide and include everything from: Sauces; Soups; Appetizers; Vegetables and Salads; Breakfast; Breads; Rice and Pastas; Pitas (pies); Poultry; Beef, Lamb, and Pork; Game; Seafood; Pastries; Cookies; and Desserts. The emblem of this book, the arm offering the branch with the three apples, is the author’s “cooking trademark” and it says it all. The apples represent the three criteria for the recipes. First, the recipes are authentically original and do not include processed ingredients. Second, secrets are disclosed, which are integral to the success of the recipe. Third, cultural customs and traditions are incorporated in the recipes which are vital to enrich and enhance the experience of Greek cuisine. The arm offering the branch represents the goal of the recipes, to ultimately enable the students to convey the famous Greek “philoxenia”, hospitality to their family and friends. In ancient Greece, a professional cook was considered an artist. Whenever these cooks created new delightful dishes, they were honored at ceremonies before enormous gatherings. They were given titles as rewards, and gifts. In this Guide you don’t just follow recipes; you create. You don’t just cook; you experience the art of Greek cuisine. Everyone around you becomes “joyful” with your results. This Guide will elevate your skills to lofty heights and help you mold the recipe into a “heavenly” creation that you, your family and friends will enjoy.