A book begins as an idea, growing only when shared with supportive, loving people.
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These muffins are a simple pleasure, perfect for building confidence in the kitchen. Bursting with sweet blueberries and bright lemon zest, they are soft, tender, and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe guarantees smiles, and maybe even requests for seconds.
This vibrant, refreshing gazpacho is the perfect ode to summer’s sweetest moments. Juicy watermelon pairs with the subtle heat of jalapeño, a touch of citrus, and a hint of fresh herbs to create a dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious. Served chilled and topped with creamy feta, it’s a light yet flavorful start to any meal, perfect for sharing with friends on warm, sunny days.
These tender, spiced lamb meatballs are a celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures. Perfectly seasoned and paired with a creamy, tangy tahini sauce, they strike a beautiful balance between savory and refreshing. Serve them as an elegant appetizer or a satisfying main course. Either way, they’re sure to impress and delight at any gathering.
ABOUT
Nanette Smalley’s culinary story is a tapestry woven with passion, resilience, and an unshakable love for the art of cooking. Growing up on the California coast, surrounded by the bounty of her family’s organic garden and the vibrant flavors of the sea, Nanette’s earliest inspirations were rooted in the land. These influences sparked a lifelong journey, blending the freshness of her coastal home with the disciplined elegance of classical French cuisine, a style she lovingly calls California Classical French.
Her career has taken her from the intimate kitchens of Santa Fe, where she opened her first restaurant, La Querencia, to the fast-paced culinary scene of Manhattan, where she became a private chef for prominent families and ran a boutique catering business. Along the way, she honed her craft at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, mastering techniques that would elevate her creativity and culinary vision.
Returning to her roots on California’s Central Coast, Nanette embraced the rhythms of organic gardening, the artistry of fine wine, and the inspiration of her early years. It was here that she began writing Favorite, a cookbook that captures a lifetime of flavors, stories, and the joy of sharing meals.
Through this book, I hope to share my journey and inspire yours. Favorite is a reflection of my belief that food has the power to connect us, nourish us, and bring us joy. I encourage you to experiment in the kitchen, to embrace fresh, healthful ingredients, and to create meals that turn into memories.
- Nanette
GALLERY
PURCHASE
When you buy Favorite, you’re not just getting a cookbook, you’re joining a community. Along with the recipes and stories in the book, you’ll also receive occasional bonus recipes and exclusive insights directly from Nanette. Plus, you’ll be the first to know when our inspiring newsletter launches, keeping you connected to the joy of cooking and discovery.