Hello & Welcome!

Hi! I’m Nicole and I’m so glad your here!

I live in Silver Spring, MD with my husband and two daughters. I am a self-taught food blogger, zoom-cooking class teacher, a wife, a mom, a Nat’s fan and a hopeful vacation taker.

 

TAKE A BREAK AROUND THE TABLE

I’m a mom of two little girls and when the COVID pandemic hit, I was so lucky to have everyone home. School and work were done simultaneously and we forgot to stop for family time because we were always together, but there is a big difference between quantity of time and quality time. I know time is never slowing down so I’m here to help with delicious busy weeknight dinners, cozy weekend roasts and a few easy desserts to help you take a break with your family and friends to enjoy the present, if we have learned anything, it’s we deserve it.

 

FOLLOW ALONG

Instagram: @Nictastingspoon
Twitter: @Nictastingspoon
Pinterest: Nicole’s Tasting Spoon

 

Accidental Culinary School Dropout

In 2016, I decided to go to culinary school. I was in my early 30’s at the time, I’m happy to say, it’s never too late to try something new and re-develop yourself!

I earned an externship at an awarded Michelin Star restaurant The Dabney. It was incredible to watch the chefs work and collaborate over menus items as the menu changed almost daily and was dependent on daily produce from local farmers. I was continuously impressed with their skills and I learned a tremendous amount in such a short period of time. 

I’m a self-proclaimed accidental culinary school dropout because during my time at the restaurant I discovered that my husband and I were expecting our first baby (!!) and was unable to successfully finish my externship due to the physical demands.   I am forever grateful for my time there.

Grandma Miller’s Cooking, the Ultimate Inspiration

Growing up on canned vegetables and boxed meals, the closest thing I had to old-hand-me-down-family-recipes was watching my Grandma Miller’s Thanksgiving preparation, she didn’t allow anyone to help but I always enjoyed watching her in amazement as she buzzed around her kitchen. Without ever reading a recipe or measuring an ingredient, she always knew exactly what to do. To say that she inspired me to pursue my culinary dreams would be an understatement – she’s the backbone to why I am so eager to create happiness and memories with new family recipes around my kitchen table – and yours!