Balancing Bowls is the product of a slightly chaotic life, a need to make and grow things, and a love of creative cooking.
I try to embrace the “busy-ness” of life by not seeking perfection, but balance. Being a mom to three young kids, my days are one brand of hectic. But whether it’s managing a busy career, caring for an aging parent, an intense college course load, or a full social life, most of us know the feeling when there are not enough hours in the day. And then, we still have to answer the timeless question: “what’s for dinner?”
For me, food is so much more than just keeping myself and my family fed. It’s celebration and ritual, healing and health, comfort and happiness. With easy grab-and-go breakfasts and freezer-friendly dinners that can be thawed and served in 30 minutes, Balancing Bowls shares my recipes, tips and tricks that I’ve found can transform a daily chore into moments to savor and enjoy.
Food is also the intersection of some of my other creative passions. In addition to being a busy mom, I’m also a ceramic artist. I’ve been making functional pottery since I was in high school and love to make plates and bowls that people can find beauty and joy in eating from. I’m a full-time ceramics teacher as well. Along with providing my personal kitchen-tested recipes, you’ll see some of my works of art here, too.
I’ll also feature some of the fresh vegetables and herbs that I grow in my own garden--another passion, which took root for me (pun intended!) during the pandemic. I started growing plants from seeds in my kitchen, initially just for the reward of fresh peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, green beans. Some of the seeds never started, some I overwatered… but some grew. The process ignited a sense of purpose and momentum when so many other activities had come to a halt in the midst of quarantines and long Massachusetts winter days. What I’m learning in my garden continues to spark curiosity and inspiration in my kitchen.
From the ingredients I’ve grown, to the recipes I’ve perfected and the dishes I serve my meals on, I’m most happy when I’m using my hands to create sources of joy for the people around me. It’s often a little messy, rarely perfect, but always delicious. I hope you enjoy.
Nora