'A lifelong passion': Legendary Leeds restaurateur George Psarias releases first cookbook
A legendary Leeds restaurateur has released his first ever cookbook.
George Psarias, best known for running the former Olive Tree restaurants, has been serving up Mediterranean delights for more than 40 years.
He has now penned Simply Italian, a collection of the chef’s favourite authentic Italian recipes inspired by traditional flavours, his family heritage and many years working in professional kitchens.
The experienced restaurateur - who was born in Pafos, Cyprus, with DNA testing showing he was 21 per cent Italian heritage - has owned numerous restaurants in Leeds, including The Olive Tree, and Giorgio’s Ristorante Italiano in Headingley. He now runs Zucchinis in Batley.
He has also featured on a number of television programmes including BBC2’s Food and Drink, ITV’s This Morning with Richard and Judy, Channel 4’s Too Many Cooks, Channel 5 with Marco Pierre White and Sky’s Good Food Live.
Having moved to England and studying at university, George spent time travelling Italy and its cities and picturesque countryside - all experience which has helped him write his first recipe book.
George said: “Simply Italian is a true reflection of everything I believe food should be – comforting, authentic and designed to bring people together.
“The book reflects a lifelong passion for authentic Italian cuisine and brings together a collection of traditional recipes inspired by family heritage, restaurant experience and many years of working with Italian food.
“The aim of the book is to show how simple, honest ingredients can be used to create classic Italian dishes that people can easily recreate at home.”
George, who points to his grandmother and mother as his cooking inspirations, runs Zucchinis with his son, Solos. Thanking the “lovely” people of Batley, and beyond, as well as his wife, Vasoulla, he said:
“I would also like to take this opportunity to give special thanks to my wife, Vasoulla Psarias, and to my private secretary, Sarah Tymms, without whom this project would not have been possible.
“I was very excited to take over Zucchinis. We are really enjoying it and the customers are really nice. I think they love the food, the service and the atmosphere. They come and enjoy it and relax.
“I love the people. They are all so warm and lovely.”
Simply Italian is available to purchase on Amazon in e-book, paperback and hardback formats.