Cristina Ferrare's Big Bowl of Love

by Cristina Ferrare

  Chris Thompson, I couldn’t wait every day to get the photos back to you for your input. I was so proud of them, and I knew you would work your magic. Thank you for your patience and kindness during a couple of meltdowns when I thought the world was coming to an end, when you ever so politely suggested that I try a couple of things another way. You were right, and the book is deliciously beautiful. Thank you for all your help!

  Eileen Chetti, thank you for pulling this book together in no time and making sense of it all. I’ve learned so much from you, and I’m in awe at your extraordinary talent in helping organize the recipes to make this book so user-friendly. You brought it to life. Thank you so much!

  My daughter Alex Thomopoulos was my sous-chef and right hand, literally, during the photo shoot of the food. This was the most difficult but the most fun part of doing this book. She kept everything organized and the kitchen running smoothly. You were amazing, Alex, and I could not have done this without your help. Thank you. “I’m bursting.”

  I look at my life in chapters, and this is definitely my “Dream-Come-True Chapter.” This book and my cooking show, Cristina Ferrare’s Big Bowl of Love, would not have happened without the blessings and support of Oprah Winfrey. Thank you, Oprah. I am deeply grateful. It’s been so exciting to be a small part in this newest chapter of your life. Yours has definitely been a page-turner, with much more to come.

  Special Thank-you

  I take great pride in our home, and I’m so particular and passionate about the look and feel, especially when it comes to eating and entertaining. It’s important to me that everyone who comes over feels welcomed and comfortable. What I choose to decorate my tables with and serve my food on is something I give a lot of thought to. As I’ve stated in the book, “I believe people eat with their eyes first.” Not only does the food have to excite, tantalize, and taste delicious, but also what you serve it in and how you present it is just as important. It makes the whole dining experience enjoyable and fun, no matter if it’s a sandwich or big beautiful bowl of pasta.

  I want to thank the following people and companies whose merchandise I collect, love, and use. They were kind enough to lend me more pieces for this book. My food looks amazing; just look at the pieces they are served in!

  Brian Thorson and Tim Hosier (ferrarewithcompany.com/)

  Lee Feldman, MacKenzie Childs (www.MacKenzie-childs.com/official)

  Elad Yifrach, L’Objet (l-objet.com)

  John Hardy, Vagabond House (www.vagabondhouse.com)

  Diane Seidle, Mustardseed & Moonshine (www.mustardseedandmoonshine.com)