Olives and Oranges

Book excerpt: By the time she was a teenager, Sara Jenkins had lived all over theMediterranean. Learning at the elbows of grandmothers and chefsfrom Tuscany to Beirut, she gained an easy familiarity with the region'scuisines and their principles. In Olives and Oranges, this accomplishedcook, who is "inspired by tradition but never limited by it" (New YorkTimes), shows how an understanding of flavor can produce great dishesfrom even the most humble ingredients. The recipes are startlingly simple, but each one has a unique touch. ~ Roasted Red Peppers with Celery Leaves and Garlic ~ Pear, Basil, and Pecorino Salad ~ Bacon- and Herb-Rubbed Salt-Baked Chicken ~ Spicy Lemon Chocolate Ganache Torte Flavor notes throughout the book explain the effect of techniques oringredient combinations on flavor so cooks can follow their own instinctsand create memorable dishes.