James Beard Winner 2025
Big flavor, light lift—comfort food for any mood
In Pass the Plate, viral food creator Carolina Gelen shares 100 vibrant, crowd-pleasing recipes rooted in the resourcefulness of her Romanian upbringing and her relaxed, flavor-first approach to cooking. Known for her easygoing style and pantry-friendly meals, Carolina brings comfort and joy to the table—without the stress.
From Dutch Baby Pancakes and Smothered Sweet Onion Bread to Garlicky Chicken Couscous, Caramelized Lemon Pesto Pasta, and Butter Beans alla Vodka, each dish is packed with personality and flavor. Chapters are organized by vibe—from eggs to snacks, salads to sweets—making this book as fun to flip through as it is to cook from. Full of stories, kitchen tips, and feel-good meals for every skill level, Pass the Plate is a modern comfort food classic.
Who’s it for?
Perfect for fans of casual cooking, flavor chasers, new cooks, and anyone who wants easy, high-impact meals with minimal fuss.
Spices to pair with this cookbook:
-
Smoked Paprika: Adds instant depth to dips, proteins, and roasted vegetables
-
Aleppo Chile Flakes: Mild heat with a fruity kick—great for finishing eggs, pastas, and salads
-
Garlic Granules: A quick, convenient flavor boost for almost every dish
-
Za’atar: Excellent on roasted vegetables, flatbreads, and creamy dips
- Cinnamon Sugar: Perfect for topping banana bread, pies, and no-bake treats