Penelope Casas facts for kids

Penelope Casas (born May 25, 1943 – died August 11, 2013) was an American food writer and expert on the delicious food of Spain. She wrote many cookbooks that helped introduce Americans to the amazing flavors and traditions of Spanish cooking for the very first time.

Who Was Penelope Casas?

Penelope Casas was a special writer who taught many people about Spanish food. She started writing cookbooks about Spain in the 1980s. Before her books, many Americans didn't know much about Spanish dishes. Her work helped change that.

Her Amazing Cookbooks

Penelope Casas published her first cookbook, The Foods and Wines of Spain, in 1982. This book was very popular and was still being printed even in 2013! She wrote five more detailed books about Spanish food.

Her next book, Tapas: The Little Dishes of Spain, came out in 1985. This book was a big hit. It introduced many Americans to the idea of tapas. Tapas are small, tasty dishes often served in Spain with drinks. Thanks to her book, many people learned about tapas bars for the first time.

Penelope Casas's last book was La Cocina de Mama: The Great Home Cooking of Spain. She published this book in 2005. It focused on traditional Spanish home cooking.

Her Early Life

Penelope Casas was born Penelope Fexas on May 25, 1943. Her parents, Antonia and Achilles Fexas, were Greek immigrants. She was born in Whitestone, Queens, a part of New York City. Her only brother, Tom Fexas, became a famous designer of yachts.

Penelope went to Vassar College. While she was a student there in the 1960s, she studied abroad in Spain. This is where she met her future husband, Luis Casas. She also studied at the University of Madrid.

Her Legacy

Penelope Casas passed away on August 11, 2013. She was 70 years old. She died from leukemia at her home in Manhasset, New York. Her work continues to inspire people to explore and enjoy Spanish cuisine.

See also

In Spanish: Penélope Casas para niños