Meni Valle is an Australian – Greek food writer and cookbook author.
Her rich Greek heritage, coupled with her love for travel and food, has seen Meni become one of Australia’s most-respected authorities on Mediterranean cuisine.
THESSALONIKI and the many kitchens of northern Greece
Following the success of her acclaimed Ikaria, Meni now invites readers to explore the rich and diverse culinary heritage of Thessaloniki and the Northern Greek region. This vibrant cookbook celebrates both traditional and modern dishes, shedding light on a region renowned for its unique food culture. Thessaloniki, Greece's second-largest city and a UNESCO-recognised epicentre of traditional culinary practices, is the heart of this culinary exploration. The city's abundant natural resources, from fertile plains to mountainous enclaves, contribute to a diverse array of ingredients, including the renowned Greek elephant beans and stone fruits. Meni's work not only uncovers these regional specialties but also weaves in the rich historical tapestry shaped by Sephardic Jews, Ottoman influences, and returning Greek emigres, offering a new perspective on Northern Greek cuisine.
With over 70 carefully curated recipes, Thessaloniki brings to life the complex flavours and traditions of the region's food. Meni's research and collaborations with local experts reveal the untold stories behind each dish, presenting an authentic taste of Northern Greece's culinary legacy. Complemented by Stephanie Stamatis's evocative photography, the book captures the essence of the region's modest, homey kitchens and the slow food philosophy that defines its cuisine. Through these recipes and the vivid imagery, readers are invited to savour the unrecognised gems of Greek gastronomy and reconnect with the time-honoured traditions that make Thessaloniki's food truly exceptional.
Preorder your copy from the link below.
More books by Meni
Escape to the Mediterranean with ‘The Mediterranean Cook’, a cookbook that celebrates the fresh and flavourful cuisine of the region with more than 80 vegetable driven recipes.
With intimate glimpses of the island’s festivals, produce, kitchens and people, ‘Ikaria’ is a cookbook that will transport and transform you.
Open your kitchen up to the flavours of the Mediterranean and introduce mouth-watering dishes from Spain, France, Italy, Greece and Lebanon.
Meni’s passion for the food of her childhood is in every one of these classic recipes, handed down through generations and enlivened by her own modern twists.
The Mediterranean plate is not only about the food but also about the lifestyle. ‘Mediterranean Lifestyle Cooking’ includes a selection of Meni’s favourite recipes from her first three books
Meni brings you on a journey into the use of essential pantry items. Beautiful recipes from breakfast through to dinner with healthy snacks and sweet treats that all the family can enjoy and benefit from.
Masterclass in Greek Filo 2 Ways: Rolled & Hand-Stretched
Postponed - Watch this space!
Join me for a warm, hands-on masterclass where you’ll learn the secrets of making traditional filo pastry from scratch – two unique ways, passed down through generations.
We’ll start by learning how to roll out paper-thin filo using a plasti (rolling pin) to create a beautiful, flavour-packed spanakopita. Then, we’ll explore the traditional wet method of hand-stretching filo to make a melt-in-your-mouth tiropita.
You will prepare their own pita from start to finish, ready to take home in an aluminium baking tray – along with recipe cards so you can recreate the magic anytime.
Your experience includes a welcoming morning tea, we’ll enjoy the pitas we’ve made, followed by a shared seasonal table lunch, served with a glass of wine.
Spaces are limited!
Hortopita
Wild Greens Filo Pie
I have heard hortopita referred to as a ‘longevity’ pie many times, as its made with so many of the nutritional wild greens that Ikaria is celebrated for. It is perfect as a snack or a meal.
When I serve it with a side of Greek yogurt, it transports me to Greece every time.
Show me the recipe.
More recipes by Meni
Pasta, Rice & Grains
Soups
Vegetables & Salads
Meat, Fish, Poultry & Eggs
Sweet Things
Cooking Classes & Workshops
When she is not writing cookbooks, Meni shares her knowledge and passion for Greek food through cooking classes in her East Melbourne home and workshops in Greece, where she loves connecting with locals and discovering new recipes.
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“An affirmation of the beautiful, simple things that matter most.”
— Tessa Kiros
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@meni.valle
“It was such a pleasure to be part of your trip Meni. You made the adventure so much fun and I will definitely make positive changes in my life (already have) as a direct result of Ikaria. I absolutely loved the farm visit/cooking demo, winery visit, and the paniyiri was an unforgettable experience. They were experiences I could only have had through a local.
I also loved hearing first hand from Thea about Ikarian life and concepts. I hope these talks will stay with me and bring positive change. It is such a special place where the simplicity of life is the key message. I absolutely loved the Ikarian holiday!”
- Donna Leigh, Australia
