Arts & Humanities Society & Culture

Cookbook author to share latest creation

Athens, Ga. – To mark the publication of Virginia Willis’ second book—Basic to Brilliant, Y’all—the University of Georgia Libraries will host a talk from the Atlanta cookbook author on Nov. 10 at 5:30 p.m. at Ciné.

The event will begin in Screening Room 1 and be followed by a book signing.

In her second book, Willis builds on her signature style by offering 150 dual recipes, which are basic recipes accompanied by a technique, garnish, additional step or short recipe that transforms the dishes into show stoppers.

Basic to Brilliant, Y’all includes starters and nibbles, memorable side dishes and main courses,” said Chantel Dunham, development director for the libraries. “These recipes are seamlessly designed for any meal or event-from a casual Wednesday night family supper to an elegant weekend party. With her ‘simple-is-best’ philosophy, Virginia uses the finest ingredients, relies on traditional French technique and lets the food shine through.”

A UGA graduate with a bachelor’s degree in history, Willis is the author of Bon Appetit, Y’all, which was nominated for the International Association of Cooking Professionals Best American Cookbook award. She has been featured in “Cooking with Paula Deen,” “House Beautiful,” the Washington Post, Chicago Tribune, Houston Chronicle and San Francisco Chronicle. She has appeared on “Martha Stewart Living” and “Paula’s Best Dishes.”

A graduate of L’Academie de Cuisine and Ecole de Cuisine La Varenne, Willis has served as kitchen director for Martha Stewart Living Television and executive producer of the Discovery Channel’s “Epicurious.”

For more information on Willis, see www.virginiawillis.com.