ABOUT THIS COOK:

Most of what I know about cooking and food I've learned from my mother and my grandmother, and from traveling and living while studying in Europe. I prefer fresh healthy food and would rather go hungry than to eat junk food. I do however indulge in In 'n Out, usually when I just get back to CA, and with my friends. It's a favorite food ritual. That and finding the best, most authentic Mexican food in the Bay Area. I also like to get good, down-to-earth regional or local specialties at major and minor league ballparks all over the country, whenever I can.

• What do you cook when home alone?
  Jamon iberico and manchego cheese on artisan bread; salad with Spanish olive oil and sherry vinegar.