My Greek Mom's Recipes

Make classic Greek recipes with a side of humor and heart.

Stand-up comedian Gus Constantellis draws inspiration for his material and online content from his family, especially his mother, Julia, who became a social media star and “Greek mother” for an entire online community. And when she died suddenly in August 2023, that community mourned with him. My Greek Mom’s Recipes is Gus’s deeply personal tribute, a cookbook in which every dish comes with a story about his mother, an immigrant who never learned English yet managed to achieve the American dream.

Equal parts hilarious and heartfelt, this book offers a comedian’s candid look at grief and family. It will resonate with anyone who’s ever had an overbearing but fiercely loving mother, the kind who expresses affection through food, tough love, and a whole lot of opinions. And the 75 recipes themselves are the real deal—because if there was one thing Julia was known for, besides her razor-sharp humor, it was her unforgettable cooking, including:

• A Greek Easter feast
• Spanakopita (Spinach Pie)
• Tzatziki (Yogurt-Garlic Sauce)
• Pastitsio (Baked Ziti)
• Avgolemono (Chicken Lemon Soup)
• Patates Lemonates (Lemon Potatoes)
• Baklava
• and much more!

These village-style recipes are tried-and-true Greek classics stripped down to their delicious essentials, making them perfect for cooks of all skills. Whether you’re a fan of Greek food or seeking some lighthearted anecdotes, My Greek Mom’s Recipes is a celebration of classic Greek food and culture, and a love letter to mothers everywhere.