Cooking is so popular today because it's the perfect mix of food and fun.

I guess I feel that I was following my instincts, and at the same time being guided by the best. I became totally intrigued with Louisiana - the people, the food. It is a part of my life. Everything that has happened for me since moving here has just been icing on the cake.

I think you've got to keep it simple, keep it fresh. Stay away from all that processed stuff, read the labels.

I've always done food that can work in a set time frame. The message I'm trying to get across is, it doesn't have to take three days to do this. With planning, you can do a lot and really have quality food every day.

If somebody has a chance to put my food in their mouth, that tells the story.

I grew up in Fall River, Massachusetts. My background was modest, and I worked at a Portuguese bakery in town.

I've never really had a problem with people.