April 24, 2025
As Culinary Director at The Parkway 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 even a little 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 a beginner looking to sharpen your skills or a seasoned cook hoping to elevate your dishes, these expert insights will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.
Every cook should own a meat thermometer probe. This underrated kitchen tool makes a big impact by helping you perfectly temp proteins every time.
Keep pasta in your pantry at all times. It’s a quick, reliable base for meals. Toss it with leftovers, fresh vegetables, and sauce for endless variations that are both easy and delicious.
If you’re just getting started, begin with knife skills. Being able to cut cleanly and quickly improves prep and safety. One of my favorite time-saving tricks? Slice grape tomatoes or grapes by sandwiching them between two plates, then cutting through the center. You’ll save a lot of time with consistent results.
Some ingredient combinations might surprise you—like bananas and chili sauce. There’s a Swedish dish called Flying Jacob that combines chicken, rice, banana chips, and a creamy chili-banana sauce. It’s bold, different, and delicious.
To cook a great steak, I season it with salt and pepper, then grill it at 400 degrees. I give it three minutes per side, flipping twice to get those perfect grill marks. The result is simple, flavorful, and juicy.
If you want your meals to taste restaurant-quality, use butter—and don’t skimp on seasoning. Most home cooks under-season. Go bold, and trust your palate.
Mastering these culinary tips and tricks will elevate your home cooking. Simple techniques can turn everyday meals into extraordinary dishes. By applying what I’ve learned throughout my culinary journey, you’ll bring more flavor, ease, and confidence to everything you make.
The Parkway Senior Living in Blue Springs, MO offers senior villas, independent senior apartments, assisted living, and memory care with a variety of services and a range of floor plan options. Amenities include restaurant dining, 24-hour bistro, concierge service, housekeeping, events and entertainment, personal care, transportation services, and more. Centrally located near St. Mary’s Medical Center and St. Luke’s Eastwith convenient access to major shopping centers and attractions, including Adams Point Golf Course, KC Royals Stadum, KC Chiefs Stadium, Sporting KC, KC Comets, KC Mavericks, Adams Dairy Landing, and Blue Springs Parks, Trails, and Lakes .
The Parkway 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.
