Simple Food and the Chef Within You

Growing up in a predominantly Italian family, food has always been the main focus of my life in general. My grandmother cooks every Sunday for my large family and my mother cooked almost every night for my brother and I growing up. Dinner was not something looked over with little thought. It was a time to get together and share a meal. I think it was that structured routine that gave me focus and direction in life. I always knew that no matter what was going on, I could (and still can) sit down, be present, and enjoy a delicious meal. It baffles me that something so basic is so often skipped or rushed in American society. Don't get me wrong, there are those days when you just don't have time to linger over a meal but it takes no time at all to prepare a hearty sandwich or boil some pasta.

Many people are intimidated by cooking. My roommate is absolutely terrified... making me watch her as she sprinkles salt on a chicken breast and asking me if that is too much or not enough. Cooking is not a contest! No one will judge you if you put too much salt on your chicken! To really enjoy cooking is to embrace the simplicity of it. Food is basic. It's not complicated at all. Most importantly, food is nourishing. When you cook a meal you can make exactly what you feel like eating. I am a very Mediterranean eater. My diet consists mostly of fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans, and fish. Why? Because I like that food. I am naturally drawn to it. Forget what people tell you to eat or what is the best and most healthy for you. Eat what YOU love (in moderation) and cooking will become a lot less stressful. Recipes don't mean much at all. Use them when you first start out but eventually you will know what to do.

Cooking is a journey. Sometimes I make things and they suck and other times they are absolutely delicious and I will make the same thing everyday that week. Cooking has helped me grow. I can be creative and I know that I don't have to follow any rules. (I don't like rules all that much :-)) Just remember that simplicity is key and fresh food is always flavorful. Good olive oil, salty capers, a squeeze of lemon juice and a white fish fillet sauteed in a skillet and finished with a pat of real butter make such a satisfying meal. Add a grain or pasta or whatever you like and dinner is on the table in about 15 minutes! It's that simple. I get comments all the time from my friends who say... I could never cook like you! While I appreciate the compliments, (who doesn't?) I have to be honest... it is not some super hero trait that I inherited from my Sicilian ancestors... it's a personal journey that consists of a lot of trial and error and though at first it might seem overwhelming it will get easier. Besides, I know you know how to make SOMETHING.

When you cook for yourself you know what is in your food. You know that it's fresh and you know that is exactly what you want! Plus, I guarantee you that it is healthier than any processed food you could ever microwave. Hipocrates once said, "Let thy food be thy medicine and thy medicine by thy food." So be selfish... cook!