Chef

Mary Platis and Laura Bashar

Mary Papoulias-Platis, food writer and culinary teacher, discovered her passion for olive oil after visiting the Greek island Kythera. Mary shares her own recipes with culinary students, readers of her popular blog, California Greek Girl and, of course, her family. Mary is currently the olive oil spokesperson for Bragg Live Foods and owner of The Greek Gourmet catering for more than 25 years. Mary and her recipes have been featured in a number of publications. Laura Bashar is a former graphic designer and advertising account executive. She started her food blog Family Spice in 2009 to share her love of family and Persian food. Laura regularly develops recipes for brands and companies, and her work has been featured in online publications. Combining fresh ingredients, contrasting flavors, exotic spices and cooking techniques from all over the world continues to be Laura’s passion today.