April 24, 2025
As Culinary Director at Vitalia Highland Heights, 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 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 keep a cake tester in their kitchen. This underrated tool is excellent for temping food and works beyond just baking.
To prepare quick, satisfying meals, I always stock pasta, frozen veggies, marinara sauce, and mozzarella. These staples come together easily to make a dish that’s comforting and flavorful.
New cooks should first learn how to boil water properly and cook a protein with confidence. Early in my culinary journey, I learned a simple yet effective trick. If your soup ends up too salty, add a peeled potato. The potato absorbs the excess salt, and you can remove it before serving.
One unexpected but delicious pairing is Gochujang—Korean pepper paste—with eggs. The combination is rich, savory, and packed with depth.
To make the perfect steak, I stick with the basics. Season with salt and pepper, let the steak come to room temperature, and cook it on a hot grill or in a cast-iron pan. That’s all it takes for great flavor.
If you want your home-cooked meals to taste like restaurant favorites, cook everything in butter. Don’t be shy—smother it. Butter adds richness, depth, and irresistible aroma to just about any dish.
Mastering these culinary tips and tricks will elevate your home cooking to restaurant-quality. Simple techniques can turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary meals. By applying what I’ve learned over the years, you’ll bring more flavor, confidence, and joy into your kitchen.
VITALIA® Highland Heights in Highland Heights, OH offers 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 Hillcrest Hospital | Cleveland Clinic with convenient access to major shopping centers and attractions, including Stonewater Golf Club, Beachwood Place, North Chagrin Reservation, Euclid Creek Reservation, Lake County Captains, Rock n Roll Hall of Fame, and Great Lakes Science Center.
VITALIA® Highland Heights 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.
