When did you first get in to cooking and do you remember the first recipe you tried?
I've loved cooking from a young age. As a child, I remember making pasta with my dad and stringing the noodles over all of the open kitchen cabines so that they would dry. However, I did not start seriously cooking until after college. Each week my girlfriends and I would take turns cooking at eachothers' houses and trying new recipes - That's when my love of cooking and wine really took off! Now, even with a full-time job, the highlight of most days is coming home to create something new in the kitchen.
What's your kitchen like and how do you keep organized when cooking?
Our kitchen has a huge granite island in the middle of it which I absolutely love. The sink is there as well so it makes for easy clean up. I like to keep organized by doing a lot of the prep work ahead of time (chopping, measuring, etc.). This takes much of the stress out of cooking. Plus, a glass of wine on the side never hurts either!
What tips would you give to someone wanting to become a better cook?
Emmerse yourself in cookbooks and cooking shows. Every time I watch Food TV I develop a new excitement for cooking. When I was starting off, I loved cookbooks by Rachael Ray - She puts a lot of focus on recipes that take 30 minutes or less - Perfect for those who may be more intimidated in the kitchen.
Who would you invite to your dream dinner party and what would you cook for them?
I would invite my nana & nanu who have now passed away. They were both FABULOUS Italian cooks! I never got to cook for them and would love to show them what I have learned and get some tips from them.
Do you do any other crafts and what are your hobbies?
I really enjoy making handmade cards - I think that they are so much more special that something you can buy in the store.
My hobbies include spending time at the beach, clamming and wine tasting.
Which cooking blogs do you love to read?
Wicked Noodle
Splendid Table
Damn Delicious
Cakes
Pasta
