Charlie Palmers Casual Cooking : The Chef of New Yorks Aureole Restaurant Cooks for Family and Friends
by Charlie Palmer
Category: Cooking

What does Aureole's award-winning chef whip up for his family and friends when he has to do all the shopping and cooking just like the rest of us? Food that's easy, delicious, and casual. Charlie Palmer shows how to make comfort foods that are comfortable, but with a new level of taste and sophistication. Sunday supper suddenly becomes sensational. And those quick mid-week meals are still quick to prepare; they just don't taste that way. Corn chowder is heartier, more intense. Traditional tuna melts become untraditional with fresh tuna, tapenade, and Fontina. That childhood favorite, Waldorf salad becomes a modern classic with apple cider, walnut oil, and a pinch of curry powder. Baked Lemon Chicken with a pile of garlic bread, a bowl of cheesy orzo or rice and a big salad of romaine will become a Saturday night favorite, just as it is in Charlie's house. Turn Sunday's leftover Perfect Roast Chicken into Monday's Chicken Noodle Soup or Aioli Chicken Salad. When company comes calling and you're looking for something a bit more sophisticated, try Charlie's Whole Roasted Salmon with New Potatoes and Leeks and Baked Wild Mushroom Salad or Lamb Shanks with Tomatoes, Lentils and Olives. Or, if you want to treat company just like family, feed them Charlie's Mom's Barbecued Chicken, Perfect Pot Roast or a heaping platter of Linguini with Eggplant Ragu. And what about desserts? Charlie has something to bring out the kid in everyone. Try his Brownie-Ice Cream Sandwiches or Apple Pizza with Cider Sorbet. His Pumpkin Custard is so easy and versatile, it can be baked family-style in one large dish or in individual souffle cups when company is expected. Serve the custard with a plate of Ginger Cookies. So what does one of New York's most celebrated chefs cook for his family and friends? Exactly what you can cook for yours with Charlie Palmer's Casual Cooking.