Second cookbook in a series from Virginia Beach native April Burke celebrates all things cheesy
In 2023, in the pages of this magazine, we introduced you to a delightful new cookbook by April Burke called We Love a Soup, which is a collection of soup recipes inspired by Burke’s soup specials during her time in the kitchen at The Hunt Room inside the Historic Cavalier Hotel in Virginia Beach.
We’re happy to report things have taken a cheesy turn for Burke, who recently released the second book in what is now officially a self-published series, this one focused on everyone’s favorite ooey-gooey good stuff: cheese, cheese and more cheese.
Like her first book, We Love a Cheese features a charming journal style with retro line-drawing illustrations by artist Daniella King.
This volume explores how different styles of cheeses are made, what types of milk they are made from, and their geographic and cultural origins from around the world. And, of course, it includes recipes for making a few cheeses at home (mozzarella, ricotta and American) as well as deliciously cheesy apps, entrees, desserts and even a few tasty treats for your furry canine friends.
A Gorgonzola Meat Loaf or Lobster Avocado Toast with Ricotta? Yes, please. There’s a decadent Mac N’ Cheese recipe…because what cheese-themed cookbook would be complete without it? But there are also tips for pairing wine and cheese and constructing the prefect grilled cheese with all the buttery, creamy, crunchy greatness your heart desires.
A Virginia Beach native, Burke has worked in the foodservice industry for nearly 15 years and enjoys sharing her passion for food and recipes with the community. Both We Love a Cheese and We Love a Soup are available for purchase at Tarnished Truth and via Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
Learn more at weloveaseries.com.
—Leona Baker
Leona Baker
Leona Baker is the former Editor-in-Chief of Coastal Virginia Magazine. She is a writer, creative, communications professional, food freak, news junkie, nature and travel lover and mom. She holds a degree in English from James Madison University and a degree in Dance & Choreography from Virginia Commonwealth University. She previously served as Senior Copywriter for Spark 451, Director of Marketing & Communications at Virginia Wesleyan University, and Senior Editor of Port Folio Weekly.
