TerrieAnn Jones
42, Palatine
Homemaker
Cook of the Week: May 28, 2008; 2008 Cook of the Year
What is your favorite ingredient and how do you like to use it? Vegetables. You can add vegetables to almost any recipe to create different textures, as well as to make the item more filling and satisfying overall. I tend to use carrots, peppers, tomatoes and celery the most often to supplement a recipe.
Describe your style or approach to cooking. I am a Weight Watcher, so the first thing I do when I see a recipe is look at it and see what I can do to make it healthier. I have learned that small adjustments go a long way in the health column for me and for my family and we don’t have to lose out on taste.
Why do you want to be part of the Cook of the Week Challenge? I truly enjoy cooking and being creative in the kitchen. I love the challenge of making a recipe more healthy, but yet still tasty, without anyone knowing that something has been altered. Eating healthy does not have to mean using artificial ingredients and everything being fat free. You just have to be creative. Sharing meals with others is one way I give back to the community. I often bring meals to people in need as a way to show them love and that I care. The joy I feel from that is beyond words. Being part of the Challenge would be another way for me to share with others, and to show people that cooking healthy can still taste great.