When did you first get in to cooking and do you remember the first recipe you tried?
I've always loved being in the kitchen. There wasn't a lot of processed or packaged food in my home growing up, so cooking from scratch is what I know best. My high school home economics teacher, Sylvia Anderson, made certain all of her students know how many teaspoons were in a Tablespoon and had a good understanding of food science so we could all cook healthy meals. I wish everyone had the benefit of early food education!
What's your kitchen like and how do you keep organized when cooking?
My kitchen is currently a work zone! For the past 9 years, I've created in a cozy 1970s kitchen which I adored but it was time for an update. I'm excited for the remodeling to be finished! I keep my kitchen organized while cooking by lining up all of my ingredients and kitchen tools before I start and cleaning as I go...or working with my favorite fella in the kitchen, who is a great help with the cleaning part.
What tips would you give to someone wanting to become a better cook?
Don't be afraid of the kitchen! If a recipe fails, just move on and keep cooking.
Who would you invite to your dream dinner party and what would you cook for them?
I love hosting dinner parties! I dream of hosting a dinner party for friends with food allergies and intolerances where everyone can eat and enjoy the same meal. I've been lucky to attend a few such dinners and know how wonderful it feels to be able to participate in the full experience of a mea.
Do you do any other crafts and what are your hobbies?
In addition to my work in the kitchen, I'm a professional sculptor working with balloons. I would love to have more time for crafts outside of creating for a living! I enjoy traveling, dining out, spending time with my three dogs and backyard chickens.
Which cooking blogs do you love to read?
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
I just really want to encourage folks who are trying to find a healthier way to eat, whether it be because of medical necessity or just planning for a long, healthy life, to get into the kitchen. It can be overwhelming, feeling like a whole new way of cooking and eating, but it is so worth it. And so delicious!
Cakes
Pasta
