April 24, 2025
As Culinary Director at Curtis Creek Senior Living, I have a wealth of experience in creating meals that are not only nutritious but also delicious and satisfying. Over the years, I’ve picked up countless tricks that make cooking easier, more flavorful, and a lot more fun. I want to share my best-kept secrets—unexpected ingredient pairings, must-have pantry staples, underrated kitchen tools, and game-changing techniques that can transform the way you cook. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to elevate your dishes, these expert insights will help you get creative in the kitchen.
One underrated kitchen tool every cook should own is a brick wrapped in tinfoil. I use it to press proteins on the flat top. The weight helps increase surface contact, which allows the food to cook faster and more evenly.
In my pantry, I always keep dry pasta, cream, and Parmesan cheese. These ingredients make it easy to pull together a flavorful meal at a moment’s notice.
Every beginner should start with knife skills. Uneven cuts often lead to uneven cooking—some bites end up undercooked, while others go too far. One helpful trick I learned early on is that almost anything can become soup with the right base and seasoning.
One surprising combination that never fails to impress is French fries with ice cream. The sweet and salty balance works better than most people expect.
When making steak, pasta, or soup, I focus on one thing: seasoning. It’s one of the simplest ways to bring out bold flavor in your dishes. If I want a meal to taste like it came from a restaurant, I keep it simple. Overcrowding a plate with ingredients can often take away from the star of the dish.
Mastering these culinary tips and tricks will elevate your home cooking to restaurant-quality. With a few smart techniques and thoughtful choices, you can turn everyday meals into extraordinary experiences. By applying what I’ve learned throughout my career, you’ll bring more flavor, efficiency, and confidence to every dish.
Curtis Creek Senior Living in Quincy, Illinois, provides prime independent living for older adults. Nestled near the banks of the Mississippi River, the community offers three professionally prepared meals daily, weekly housekeeping, and most utilities for one bundled price. Spacious apartments with patio or balcony, walk-in tub, and kitchenette are available in various floor plans. Amenities include restaurant dining, 24-hour bistro, concierge services, events and entertainment, transportation services, fitness area, game room, and lounge. The daily events calendar keeps residents’ bodies and minds active and socially engaged. Customized personal care services are offered by trusted third-party providers. Residents can stroll through the shops and cafes of picturesque downtown Quincy, explore local parks, or enjoy the scenic views of Quincy Bay.
Curtis Creek Senior Living serves and employs individuals of all faiths, regardless of race, color, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age or handicap, except as limited by state and federal law.
