Maria Elia has always had a passion for food. It developed at a young age, where she spent much of her time in the family's Greek restaurant in Richmond, London. These formative years taught her the joys of good Greek and British Cuisine, which she has brought alive in her book, Smashing Plates: Greek Flavours Redefined.

The first thing to say is that in Smashing Plates Maria has redefines Greek food, to give it a modern day face lift. Drawing on traditional ingredients and dishes, creating new flavour combinations and presentation.

With over 140 recipes, the chapters are separated into Small Plates, Sharing & Fuller Plates, Salads & Side Plates, and of course Sweet Plates. Mix and Matching these dishes allows you to create anything from a simple dinner for two to a feast for family and friends. Be inspired with Small Plates of Taramasalata and Salt Cod Croquettes, Chilli Roasted Feta and Watermelon with Raisin Oregano Dressings or try your hand out home-made Halloumi. These dishes are great on their own or with larger plates such as Griddled Lamb Cutlets with Fennel Tzatziki, Tomato and Runner Bean Baklava, Roast Partridge with Haloumi and Grapes, or even a Greek Style Paella including Greek Sausage and Feta. Accompany with a Salad and Side Plate such as an usual Carrot Tabbouleh, a Peachy Greek Panzanella, simply yummy Cyprus Potato Chips along with dips such as Fava Puree and Skordalia traditional and with her own special twists.

Of course I can’t leave out a few of her mouth watering sweet dishes from the simple to the elaborate: Greek Coffee Frappe Granita, Tahini Chocolate Puddings with Creme Fraiche and gorgeous Almond, Rose Water and Chocolate Teacake Chimneys (a Greek twist on the Teacakes many of us love so much)

I've always had a love of Greek food, since growing up in Australia it has been omnipresent in my life, and through my visits to Greece and to the different regions of the country, I now have a greater understanding and appreciation of Greek cuisine. This book gives a fresh outlook on Greek food and does it proud!

Also see: This is Maria Elia