Food for thought—take a break from searching Pinterest recipes online and feast your eyes on the glossy publication full of key ingredients to a wholesome, sustainable SRQ lifestyle. Deserving of a home on your kitchen counter or coffee table, this newly published foodie manual by the Junior League of Sarasota is the epitome of locals doing local right. Inside its pages, you’ll find more than 200 tasty recipes inspired by Sarasota and our surrounding islands. Simply Sarasota: From Fresh to Fabulous heats up with a celebration of content, transforming fresh ingredients into fabulous dishes. Releasing its fourth cookbook in its collection, the organization this year emphasizes locally sourced ingredients, features many of our area’s killer farms and focuses on lighter fare with nutritional information included with each recipe. The coveted manifesto packs a punch with artful appetizers, soulful soups, savory seafood and delectable desserts—all whilst incorporating the best of the community’s crops and creativity—specially sourced and contributed by members, residents and award winning local chefs from faved Sarasota restaurants.  

The flavorful hardbound also highlights images of local destinations and recommendations on healthy activities to do in the area, which are the perfect complements to clean eating. Beyond that, are insights into how the Junior League of Sarasota has impacted the community since 1957—from building wheelchair-accessible parks to teaching families how to make easy, affordable, nutritious meals. “The Junior League of Sarasota is ecstatic to announce the launch of its new and improved cookbook that includes helpful serving tips and features spreads of Sarasota destinations and beautiful photography,” says President Amy Sankes.

Simply Sarasota: From Fresh to Fabulous can be pre-ordered now online for a discounted price before it switches over to regular order sales on October 25, when you’ll also be able to purchase the book at a name-drop-worthy list of local establishments: Blase Cafe, Bookstore 1 Sarasota, Clever Cup Coffee Shop, Doctor's Hospital Gift Shop, Garden Argosy, Hana Sushi Lounge, Marie Selby Garden Shop, Morton's Gourmet Market, The Reserve, The Sarasota Collection Home Store, Molly's! A Chic & Unique Boutique.

And in true Sarasota spirit, a launch party will take place to kick off the release of the 2018 cookbook—held at Michael’s on East Ballroom on Thursday, October 25, from 6pm to 9pm. The $50 ticket price includes hors d’oeuvres, music and chance raffle. Proceeds will ultimately allow the Junior League of Sarasota to support community efforts throughout the rest of the year. Purchase your Launch Party tickets here.

Junior League of Sarasota estore