Laura Stec

1 week ago | paloaltoonline.com | Laura Stec

Let’s get berry real—these tiny, colorful powerhouses shouldn’t be held captive to morning yogurt. Bursting with flavor, history, and health benefits – berries go way beyond the bowl. From the wild California blackberries that stain your fingers on summer hikes, to antioxidant-rich blueberries fueling our brain, there’s berry good reason to eat more, and berries are all coming back into season. So grab a handful. Make life berry berry good. Berry Bonanza!You’re invited to a celebration of BERRIES.

2 weeks ago | paloaltoonline.com | Laura Stec

Cinco de Mayo is more than a great excuse to sip margaritas and pile your plate with tacos—though, let’s be honest, we’re totally down for that too. This vibrant holiday brings a burst of color, culture, and community every May 5th, celebrating an unlikely victory of the Mexican army over French forces at the Battle of Puebla. But whether you’re in it for the history or just the fiesta, time to mariachi and shout ¡Viva México.

3 weeks ago | paloaltoonline.com | Laura Stec

There’s a plethora of new riches and tastes for Peninsula and South Bay eaters this spring. We’ve had the recent pleasure to Food Party! at a few. Macarena -the Art of CelebrationOpen the grand magical doors off Ramona Street in Palo Alto and immerse into a celebration of Spain’s very soul. Transported if only for an evening to a space where time slows and laughter flows.

1 month ago | paloaltoonline.com | Laura Stec |Laura StecChef

Hosting Easter brunch this Sunday or bringing a dish to a party? Why not Sweet Potato Hash with Tempeh and Cilantro Pesto? Hash is all the trend with it’s crispy goodness. Tempeh, a whole-soybean patty, offers good protein and a nutty essence. Adjust for meat eaters by adding chicken sausage. Make the hash ahead of time and reheat in the oven. Cilantro Pesto is like a green Sriracha – mouth satisfying flavor bomb served on the side.

1 month ago | paloaltoonline.com | Laura Stec |Laura StecChef

Earth Day arrives April 22nd – time to honor our planet and protect it. Did you know one of the most positive effects you can have on the environment begins on your dinner plate? Food Waste: One-third of all food produced globally is wasted. That’s about 1.3 billion tons per year, contributing to 8-10% of global greenhouse gas emissions.