Torre Marie Lee, known to many as Chef-Ria, did not set out to become a cookbook author. Her book, Simple Gifts: Classic, Easy, Healthy Recipes, grew out of gratitude, a lifetime of performing and a deep love of cooking for the people around her. Here is a closer look at the woman behind the recipes.
From Milwaukee to the stage
Torre was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and was adopted at the age of two, which she describes as a profound blessing. She later changed her name from Barbara to Torre. Her life has been full of expression: she has played music and danced both competitively and professionally, and she skated with Ice Capades.
Over the years she has also dressed in costume and portrayed many different characters at all kinds of events and venues. That playful spirit is part of why Simple Gifts features colorful cartoon characters that help readers through the book.
A career built on helping people
Alongside her creative life, Torre has worked in fields centered on care and service. She has been a licensed massage therapist for 25 years and a paralegal for more than 15 years. Through her business, Four Seasons Speakers, she represents professional speakers and entertainers.
The moment that started the book
Torre opens her story with a line she said to a doctor after a frightening medical event: “God must have an interesting sense of humor.” Reflecting on that moment, she asked herself how she could show she was grateful to be here. Her answer was to do something she knows and loves. She gathered her simple, easy to cook classic recipes into a book for friends and family, something they could keep and remember her by.
What makes Simple Gifts different
- Personal recipes. Each dish is one Torre personally crafted, shaped by her life as a dancer, musician and bodywork therapist.
- Classic, easy and healthy. The focus is on approachable home cooking that feels good to eat.
- Full of personality. Pictures and cartoon characters make the 153 pages fun to read.
- Made to be shared. The book exists to pass along recipes that others once shared with Torre.
Frequently asked questions
Who is Chef-Ria?
Chef-Ria is the nickname of Torre Marie Lee, the author of Simple Gifts: Classic, Easy, Healthy Recipes.
When was Simple Gifts published?
The hardcover was independently published on November 14, 2024, and the Kindle edition followed on November 16, 2024.
Where can I read more about Torre?
Her full story, in her own words, is on the About the Author page.
Bring Torre’s recipes home
The best way to get to know a cook is through her food. Get your copy of Simple Gifts in hardcover or as an eBook.