What’s it Like to Cook Italian Food on a Yacht?

I have always had a bucket list of things I wanted to do in my lifetime…and hanging out on a yacht in Italy was one of them (even if I realistically get ultra seasick, we can all have fantasies right?) Fortunately for my recent assignment for NBC, I got to experience the yacht without having…… Continue reading What’s it Like to Cook Italian Food on a Yacht?

The Grill Master’s Secret to Perfect Kebabs!

Ever wonder how kebabs in restaurants taste so darn good? There’s a unique smoky flavor and juicy texture that restaurant kebabs have–and I have always wanted to know their secret! Fortunately, I have a friend named Saif who is a true grill master, who was willing to share his expert tips. His restaurant in San Bruno…… Continue reading The Grill Master’s Secret to Perfect Kebabs!

The Perfect Mediterranean Picnic Sandwich

What constitutes the ultimate picnic sandwich? Ideally it would have non perishable ingredients, not get soggy, and have a beautiful mix of chewy, creamy, fresh, and herby. One sandwich that embodies all of those qualities is the Caprese: For NBC’s California Live, I visited Barry from Oakville Grocery, the oldest grocery store in California, who…… Continue reading The Perfect Mediterranean Picnic Sandwich

Homemade Ice Cream That’ll Make You Melt!

Hello Friends,  Hope you’re enjoying your summer!  Ice cream season is in full swing at my house, however, every year I end up with the same pattern. My kids, nieces and nephews all get the hankering for ice cream. I go to the supermarket to see if I can get something for them on the…… Continue reading Homemade Ice Cream That’ll Make You Melt!

Mamma Vera is Back- for Our Tahini Taste Test & Review!

You might think that a product like sesame paste, or tahini tastes the same across the board no matter the brand. But in truth, tahini is as varied as any other product. For instance, you know that Jiffy peanut butter is going to taste completely different from Justin’s brand, which has far fewer  ingredients. Sadly there…… Continue reading Mamma Vera is Back- for Our Tahini Taste Test & Review!

Summer Desserts with Fruits at Peak Season!

While a lot of people are dashing around on July fourth trips or vacations, I am staying home this year. I plan on making this holiday extra special for my family so they don’t experience FOMO, or Fear of Missing Out. One of the ways I do this is by planning a special July Fourth…… Continue reading Summer Desserts with Fruits at Peak Season!

5 Knife Skills in 5 Minutes to Elevate Your Cooking!

Hello Friends! Whether you are a culinary whiz in the kitchen or a beginner, there is always room to sharpen your knike skills. Having impeccable knife skills not only ensures safety, but it also enables you to take your dishes to another level of flavor, texture, and creativity! We eat with our eyes, and perfectly…… Continue reading 5 Knife Skills in 5 Minutes to Elevate Your Cooking!

The Breakfast You Didn’t Know you Needed

What do you think of when you think of comfort food? A plate of french toast that is crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside? Maybe a piece of warm fruit pie with a scoop of rich ice cream? If that is your definition of deliciousness, then you are in for an easy…… Continue reading The Breakfast You Didn’t Know you Needed

My Family Favorite: Kousa Mahshi- Stuffed Squash

If you come from an Arab family in the Levant, whether Palestinian, Lebanese, Syrian, or Jordanian, you know the smell of Kousa Mahshi when it envelops the kitchen. That unmistakable smell of fresh summer squash stuffed with seasoned rice and lamb and boiled in an aromatic broth even permeates the front door. The scent invites…… Continue reading My Family Favorite: Kousa Mahshi- Stuffed Squash

The Best Cioppino I have EVER Had-from Carmel 

Hello Friends! The most rewarding part of my job at NBC is meeting new people following their passion and doing amazing things in local communities! This week was no exception when I visited the seafood restaurant called Catch in Carmel by the Sea, in preparation for Carmel’s Culinary Week: https://www.catchcarmel.com/ Before I talk about Catch,…… Continue reading The Best Cioppino I have EVER Had-from Carmel