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Article byAthena Calderone, translated by Nossa!
What sparked your love of food and cooking?
Growing up in Southern California had so much to do with that. In the backyard, we had a lemon tree and a fig tree. I love gardening and growing my own vegetables.
This philosophy of growing your own food and making things from scratch has been ingrained in me since I was very young.
Also, I grew up on the set of the TV show “Married with Children,” where my father was the lighting director. I helped prepare the meal trays and bring them out. I noticed how much food could bring joy. It was amazing and definitely shaped my love for cooking and sharing.
How did growing up in California influence your eating habits?
Fresh, fresh, fresh. We’re so spoiled here with all our resources, and my love for simple things and homemade meals is completely tied to that. And the diet tends to be healthier, too: acai bowls, green juices, salads, perfect sushi, grilled fish tacos… It’s all what makes me think of home.
Is there something you secretly love to eat?
I love french fries, but there’s no shame in that. But you know what I reeally love? Mac and cheese.
I buy the kind from Annie’s and add some frozen peas. It’s such a comfort food!
I used to make them when I was babysitting. I’d eat them with the kids and feel a bit like a kid myself.
I’m not opposed to eating pommes dauphines either. With ketchup and Sriracha.
What's your breakfast routine?
Acai bowls, detox juices… When I’m staying at a hotel, I often order poached eggs and avocado toast.
You'd be lost in your kitchen without…
My Vitamix and my Japanese knife.
What's your go-to recipe that you could make with your eyes closed?
Cacio e pepe pasta (pasta with cheese and pepper sauce)… So easy.
5 ingredients you can't live without?
Maldon sea salt, Terroni-marinated chili peppers, almond milk, Meyer lemons, and olive oil.
What was your most unusual culinary experience?
Go sea urchin diving in Jamaica and enjoy them fresh right out of the ocean.
How do you feel when you cook or eat?
Loved and lucky.
What would be on the menu for your ultimate "Food Day"? And who would you spend it with?
Breakfast with blueberry Johnny Cakes (cornmeal pancakes) topped with extra-crispy bacon and maple syrup.
For lunch, grilled fish tacos with Albariño (Spanish wine). And dinner would be ribeye steak with sautéed broccoli (or a bowl of cavatelli pasta).
And as for “with whom,” they know who they are…
The Acai Bowl by Meghan Markle
Blend 100 g of frozen acai pulp with 75 ml of almond milk, ½ banana, and a handful of frozen berries.
Pour into a bowl, top with coconut flakes, fresh berries, banana slices, a drizzle of manuka honey, and pollen, and enjoy immediately.
Meghan’s tip for an açai bowl that stays creamy and fresh longer:chillyour bowl in the freezer beforehand, then serve the açai in it.
