The most overrated ingredients are garlic and extra-virgin olive oil. With garlic, it's personal; I have never been that big of a fan of its flavor. As for extra-virgin olive oil, I do use it quite often but its ubiquity serves to overshadow many wonderful oils like pistachio, walnut, argan and even grapeseed.

Do the dishes while you're cooking.

The wisest advice I ever received regarding the kitchen came from my mother: 'Do the dishes while you're cooking.

I bike around New York City as a way of getting everywhere I need to go.

My mother always taught me to wear clothes for myself and not to follow trends as trends will end!

I love to cook and entertain.

I really don't like take-out.