Keep It Zesty

Edy Massih is a chef, a caterer, and the owner of Edy’s Grocer in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. Born in Anfeh, Lebanon, he moved at the age of ten to Boston with his family. In 2016, he graduated from the Culinary Institute of America and started a successful catering business, which soon became well known for its signature Brown Paper Boards. In August 2020, Edy opened his first storefront, Edy’s Grocer, which quickly turned into a neighborhood staple and gathering place, serving great food and hosting various pop-ups, cookbook clubs, and dinner parties. Edy hopes to inspire others with his modern twist on the Lebanese flavors that captivated him as a child.

“Prepare for a watering mouth and tingling taste buds when you open up Edy Massih’s poppy new cookbook.”  — Barnes & Noble Reads“Edy Massih has channeled the vibrant, inviting atmosphere [of Edy’s Grocer] into a colorful new cookbook. . . . Basically, your summer cookout spread is sorted.” — Food & Wine, Our 12 Favorite Cookbooks of Summer 2024“A brilliant ode to the spirit of Lebanese hospitality—vibrant, lavish, and playful—packed with abundant meals and celebration. Edy beautifully pays tribute to the matriarchs in his life who’ve helped him find the truest expression of self through his nationally acclaimed corner store, a place for gathering and celebrating Arab foodways.” — Reem Assil, IACP award-winning author of Arabiyya“Brimming with inspiration for weeknight meals and weekend gatherings alike.” — goop“[An] appetizing and authentic debut collection. . . . There’s enough variety to satisfy just about every palate: appetizers, breakfast and lunch options, and quick weeknight meals headline a stellar lineup of recipes . . . .Massih’s no-nonsense approach makes it easy for home cooks to dabble with a dish or two or go all-in with a full menu. This versatile collection is as practical as it is heartfelt.” — Publishers Weekly“These recipes are as vibrant as Edy himself. Simple, dynamic, and with just a hint of humor, these recipes transported me from the Greenpoint Grocer all the way to his family’s lunch table in Lebanon. And yes, I’ll be making the mujadara on repeat."  — Justine Doiron, @justine_snacks“Keep It Zesty evokes home: big family-style feasts along the shores of the Mediterranean. I got lost in the insane flavors of his Moroccan Harissa Minestrone, Everything Sumac Salmon, and Pistachio Halva Rice Krispie Treats. Equally breathtaking are the stories of the women who influenced Edy's life in the most delicious of ways. This book is a must-have, filled with recipes and stories of pure zest, love, and joy."  — Suzy Karadsheh, New York Times bestselling author of The Mediterranean Dish Cookbook“[A] splendid collection of 115 tempting recipes . . . Threaded throughout are moving essays by Massih on topics such as his beloved grandmothers and how they shaped his cooking, as well as how Oprah became a lifeline for Massih when he immigrated to the U.S. from Lebanon. Written with a wonderful sense of humor and a great deal of heart, this cookbook debut is a first-rate introduction to the vibrant and appetizing world of Lebanese cuisine.” — Library Journal (starred review)“Keep it Zesty showcases [Edy’s] modern riffs on traditional Lebanese cuisine. . . . [with] crave-worthy dips and spreads. . . [and] clever recipe charts so you can easily customize dishes alongside anecdotes about Middle Eastern pantry staples.” — Food Network, 16 Third-Culture Cookbooks That Will Change the Way You Cook“Edy Massih's deeply personal debut cookbook, Keep it Zesty, immerses you in his charming and delicious world, making you wish his beloved Brooklyn shop was right around the corner from you. Fortunately, the book’s collection of bright, vegetable-forward recipes will inspire and allow you to bring those flavors to your own home.” — Andy Baraghani, New York Times bestselling author of The Cook You Want to Be“In his debut cookbook, Edy’s bright smile and ambitious personality shine through on every page, with mouthwatering recipes that are both forward-thinking and lovingly nostalgic. He shares endless advice like how to build easy-peasy spice blends, stock your freezer like a true teita, and prep fresh lemon juice to have on hand—the types of tips that elevate your kitchen and your spirit. But my favorite part of Edy’s book is his love letter to Oprah Winfrey, whose daily talk show changed Edy’s life when he needed it most. By sharing his food, Edy shares every beautiful part of himself, and it just may change your life, too.” — Dan Pelosi, New York Times bestselling author of Let’s Eat"This book is a pure celebration of the happy, zesty life we all deserve. It’s bright and welcoming, both a crash course in how to cook simple, delicious, and approachable Lebanese flavors at home and a beautiful immigrant story told through Edy’s love of cooking and culture. After flipping through this book, you will feel like you’ve gained a new BFF who will inspire you to live your best life through delicious foods."  — James Park, author of Chili Crisp“Keep it Zesty is beautiful—it’s bright, colorful, and brings light and joy into my kitchen. Edy is an amazing teacher, and you can feel his love and passion for Lebanese cuisine on every page. Plus, the thoughtful design makes it incredibly easy and fun to cook your way through the book.” — Rick Martínez, New York Times bestselling author of Mi Cocina