Culinary Tips and Tricks

As Culinary Director at The Boulevard Senior Living of St. Charles, I have a wealth of experience in creating meals that are not only nutritious but also satisfying. Over the years, I’ve picked up countless tricks that make cooking easier, more flavorful, and 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.

Tools and Tricks That Make a Difference

Every cook should keep a good fish spatula in their kitchen arsenal—it’s one of the most underrated and versatile tools. Designed for delicate foods like fish, it does much more. The thin, flexible edge separates frozen items, slices brownies cleanly, lifts warm cookies with ease, and handles anything pan-fried without soaking up too much oil.

Time-saving tips also come in handy. One of my favorites involves cherry or grape tomatoes. Place them between two dinner plates and run a long bread knife through the middle to slice them all at once. It’s a simple trick, but it has saved me a lot of prep time over the years.

Stocking the right pantry items can also make everyday cooking easier. Keep essentials like canned tomatoes, dry pasta, coconut milk, rice or quinoa, and a variety of nuts or seeds on hand. With just a few fresh or frozen ingredients, these staples help you build quick, delicious meals.

Build Your Confidence With Flavor and Technique

If you’re new to cooking, start by mastering eggs. Practice poached, sunny-side up, over easy, shirred, and both hard- and soft-boiled. These skills take patience but offer a solid foundation for many dishes.

For bold flavors, try chocolate and chilis. One of my favorite pairings is in a cup of Mexican hot chocolate—rich, spicy, and deeply comforting.

To cook the perfect steak, begin with high-quality meat. Let it reach room temperature before placing it on a hot grill or skillet. Season generously with salt and pepper right before cooking. When the steak is five to ten degrees below your desired temperature, transfer it to a room-temperature plate to rest. Let it rest for as long as it cooked. Add a few pats of butter while it rests to deepen the flavor.

Want restaurant-quality results at home? Season with confidence. Most home cooks are too cautious with salt, spice, and butter. Presentation matters, too—a well-plated meal always feels more satisfying.

Mastering these culinary tips will transform your home cooking. With the right tools, smart ingredients, and a few bold moves, you can bring flavor, creativity, and confidence to every meal.