When did you first get in to cooking and do you remember the first recipe you tried?
Both of my parents were always cooking when I was growing up. My family was often hanging out in the kitchen. My parents have a Christmas Eve party and the first recipe that I remember making with them is sugar cookies and other holiday treats. The first recipe that my sister and I made on our own was for lasagna roll ups.
What's your kitchen like and how do you keep organized when cooking?
Haha. I don't keep organized. Since I live in a city, my kitchen is smaller and every cabinet is completely filled. It's a struggle.
What tips would you give to someone wanting to become a better cook?
Learn the basics first and slowly build your skill set. Start by learning things like how to roast a chicken, make a perfect sunny side up egg, and how to cook a steak. Then learn how to make a few sauces, a great sauce is a secret weapon in the kitchen.
Who would you invite to your dream dinner party and what would you cook for them?
My friends and I always say that we want to have dinner with Michelle Obama. President Obama can come too. And I would have to invite all of my close friends or they would be upset with me. I think it would be fun to serve something very casual, like tacos with my cult favorite poblano cream sauce.
Do you do any other crafts and what are your hobbies?
Yes, I do! I knit, but I am a very slow knitter. I have been working on a cardigan for a while now. I studied drawing, paintings, ceramics, and sculpture in college too.
Which cooking blogs do you love to read?
Many of my close friends are food bloggers. I love reading Grandbaby Cakes, Honey and Birch, Lakeshore Lady, The Baker Chick, and Shugary Sweets.
Is there anything else you'd like to add?
I also write about travel! I specialize in long form travel guides, and I cover about 25 destinations each year. I've written about adventures like riding camels in the Sahara Desert, dog sledding in the Arctic Circle, and truffle hunting in Italy. Many of my recipes are inspired by my travels.
Cakes
Dessert
