Expertise: Professionally Trained Chef and Certified Health Coach

Chef Sally has become a cherished figure in the Covenant Hills community, where she has lived for five years. Each day, she and her husband still marvel at the tranquility and camaraderie that define their neighborhood. “After building our house 5 years ago we still pinch ourselves every day that we live in this fantastic neighborhood. When you come through the gate, you breathe a sigh of relief; you’re home,” she reflects. This sense of belonging fuels her passion for cooking and sharing healthy meals with those around her.

Sally’s culinary journey began in her childhood, where she discovered a love for cooking and entertaining. Though she initially pursued a degree in technology, her heart led her back to the kitchen. In her 40s, she attended culinary school, igniting a passion that would shape her career. From there, she launched a personal chef, private chef and catering business, offering her culinary talents to a variety of clients.

Her expertise further expanded when she trained at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, blending her culinary skills with a deep understanding and her love of nutrition. Although she has stepped back from full-time cooking, she continues to experiment in the kitchen, testing recipes for her website, aFoodcentriclife.com. Her neighbors particularly enjoy when Sally is testing out new recipes as they reap the benefits as the testers.

As a certified health coach, Sally emphasizes the importance of healthy eating for families. “What we eat has a huge impact on our lives and our health,” she explains. She understands the challenges many families face, particularly those with special dietary needs like gluten-free or dairy-free diets. To address these, she adapts her recipes, ensuring everyone can enjoy delicious meals together. She always makes notes in all her recipes for how to adapt to special dietary needs.

Sally finds fulfillment in helping others navigate their dietary challenges and create satisfying meals. “Cooking is fun! Knowing I’ve helped someone get a good meal on the table is incredibly rewarding,” she shares.

To stay informed about the latest trends in culinary arts and nutrition, Sally regularly reads industry publications, follows expert opinions, and explores grocery store aisles for new products. Her meticulous approach to selecting ingredients is evident in her recipes, which often emphasize healthy, wholesome options.

Throughout her career, Sally has had the privilege of cooking for notable figures, including a former U.S. President and the President of an African nation. She also had the privilege of cooking for NHL hockey players during training to help them get ready for a tough season ahead. Sally has also Created all of the recipes for a New York Times best-selling book by Dr. Mark Hyman, and another best-seller companion, “The Daniel Plan Cookbook” and a Sony Video series. These milestones are a testament to her dedication and expertise in the culinary field.

Sally has been deeply involved in her local community, previously serving as a teaching chef for the Daniel Plan program at Saddleback Church. Although that program has since ended, her desire to support her neighbors remains strong. She is always on the lookout for opportunities to share her knowledge and help others live healthier lives.

As the holiday season approaches, Sally is gearing up for a busy fourth quarter on her food blog. This time of year brings families together, and she’s excited to update and re-photograph recipes, making them even more appealing for her subscribers. You might also find her enjoying her backyard, tending to her pellet grill or working in her raised bed garden—activities she cherishes as a self-proclaimed homebody.

Sally’s expertise has shaped her understanding of the neighborhood's lifestyle. She believes that eating smart is crucial for families, especially those with busy schedules. “Even with hectic lives, it’s possible to make healthy choices, and I’m here to help,” she states.

For those curious about cooking and nutrition, Sally has simple yet impactful advice: “Cook at home, get your kids involved, and enjoy the process. Healthy, tasty meals don’t have to be complicated.”

Chef Sally exemplifies the spirit of Covenant Hills, blending her culinary skills with a commitment to community health and well-being. With her warmth and expertise, she continues to inspire those around her to embrace the joy of cooking and the benefits of healthy eating.