I love to travel - and to be inspired to travel. There are many ways to get inspired - Pinterest, books, magazines, websites - and cookbooks. Oh yes, most definitely cookbooks - because one of my favorite things to do while traveling is eat well! Food is definitely an insider's look into a culture. One such cookbook that has me dreaming of France is Provence Food and Wine: The Art of Living. Written by François Millo and Viktorija Todorovska, this book is a gem.

Viktorija Todorovska is a Chicago-based chef, author, and owner of Oliva Cooking (a cooking, wine, and travel company), who studied at the famed Florentine culinary school Apicius. Her books include The Sardinian Cookbook and the Puglian Cookbook. François Millo is also an author, noted photographer, and the director of the Provence Wine Council. So you know you're in good hands with these two!

The introduction of the book says it all - "A land of sunshine, luminous light, azure sea, and iconic lavender fields, Provence is where travelers go to dream, and dream to return. It is a land of strong traditions and a blend of cultures, a home to generous and passionate people who know how to celebrate life and who practice l'art de vivre, the timeless art of living that feeds the soul."

And this book? It does feed - and inspire - the soul. Filled with gorgeous photos, history and geography, games and traditions, people and crafts, wine and terroir, and then... the food. Oh yes, this food. Recipes, history, geographical specialties, and hunger-inducing photos all combine to make your mouth water, your fingers itch to book a trip, and your mind immediately begin planning a dinner party to share this goodness with your nearest and dearest. I LOVE this book - highly recommended!

We were lucky enough to gain permission to reprint two recipes from this amazing book. Click the title or the photo to be transported to Provence get the recipe.

Onion Tart - Pissaladière

Berry Mille-feuilles with Orange Cookies - Mille-Feuilles de Tuiles à l’Orange aux Fruits Rouges

We had a chance to catch up with Viktorija, to get the backstory of the book, inspiration, the beauty of Provence, and more. Here's what she had to say...

Please tell us about your book, Provence Food and Wine: The Art of Living…

VT: Provence Food and Wine: The Art of Living is a book about an enchanting region, its traditions and people, and the foods and wines that make it special. It is more than a cookbook. It contains 47 recipes with wine pairings, but it also welcomes the reader into the world of Provence food and wines. It tells the story of the region, its famous (and delicious!) cuisine, and its extraordinary wines, which pairs well with a variety of foods.

What inspired you to create this book?

VT: I have always been passionate about the foods and wines of the Mediterranean and Provence is in the center of that great region. It has a style of cooking that is perfect for the modern lifestyle: light and flavorful. And its wines are perfect for adding a bit of sunshine to any day. Dry, crisp, and aromatic, they are easy to enjoy on their own or with a variety of foods. But it’s the combination of food, wine, and the spirit of the people that makes this region so unique. So, I wanted to share that enjoyment of life with my readers and bring them closer to Provence.

What is it about Provence that captures us (and our tastebuds!)?

VT: the light yet remarkably unique flavors, the interesting flavor combinations, and the simple recipes tempt the tastebuds. The sunshine and colors of Provence delight the eye. And its people and their energy put a smile on a visitor’s face.

How can readers include a taste of Provence in their daily lives?

VT: Invite some friends, open a bottle of chilled Provence rosé and cook one of the dishes from the book (in that order). You will be a step closer to Provence any day!

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

VT: I hope readers use the book to get to know Provence a little. But I also hope they take a trip to this land of unforgettable experiences. They will fall in love!

Learn more at:

http://www.agatepublishing.com/book/?GCOI=93284100187930

Or of course at any bookstore, or online. Enjoy!

Recipes reprinted with permission from Provence Food and Wine: The Art of Living by François Millo and Viktorija Todorovska, Agate Surrey, March 2014.

Photos are copyright © François Millo

Note: We received a media copy for this review - thank you so much!