As a mom of four, Melissa d’Arabian knows how to make family-friendly meals on a budget. After winning season five of Food Network Star, her series Ten Dollar Dinners premiered with one goal: to feed four people for just $10.
D’Arabian will be signing copies of her new cookbook Ten Dollar Dinners: 140 Recipes & Tips to Elevate Simple, Fresh Meals Any Night of the Week in Williams-Sonoma stores this month. Read the Q&A below to learn about her greatest culinary inspirations, favorite ingredients and recipes, and go-to meals.
Who has always been your culinary inspiration?
My mom! She wasn’t the most gourmet cook, but she taught me about the joy of cooking for other people.
What is your favorite Williams-Sonoma product or tool?
Nespresso – we have three of them!
Do you have an all-time favorite recipe?
I’d have to say my Potato Bacon Torte. It always reminds me of my mother-in-law, who inspired the dish. I think it was my winning ticket into the finale of The Next Food Network Star!
What’s your go-to dinner on a busy weeknight?
Four-step chicken.
What is your favorite ingredient or spice?
White beans would have to be my favorite ingredient. As for spice, I love smoked paprika!
Who, living or dead, would you like to cook for?
I’d love to cook for my mom. She passed away when I was 20, but I know she would be so thrilled with my career in food.
See below for a list of Melissa d’Arabian’s in-store book signing dates:
Southlake Town Square
Tuesday, August 21, 2012 at 12:00pm
172 State Street, Southlake, TX, 76092
(817) 416-5932
North Park Center
Tuesday, August 21, 2012 at 4:00pm
327 Northpark Center, Dallas, TX, 75225
(214) 378-6216
South Coast Plaza
Friday, August 24, 2012 at 12:00pm
3333 Bristol Street, Costa Mesa, CA, 92626
(714) 751-1166
Fashion Valley
Saturday, August 25, 2012 at 2:00pm
7007 Friars Road, San Diego, CA, 92108
(619) 295-0510
Please note: Melissa will be signing copies of Ten Dollar Dinners purchased at Williams-Sonoma. Proof of purchase required.