I love things that bring people together and that includes a meal around the table. I'm big on 30min or less for weeknight meals or "one pot dinners" as our family is quite busy. While I prefer fresh ingredients, ideally I like simplistic meals that fill the belly but not clog the arteries. ;) I'm big into ethnic cooking as well and being from Dutch/Italian descent that provides an interesting array of choices! Over here, we ALL play an active role in meal making. Luckly I have excellent "taste testers" in my family. As long as I'm cooking, they are always looking for my latest and greatest! Special occasions are always fun as we tend to get an array of choices and our son gets right into the action with all of the table decorating! Quite a few. When the ask for seconds - success!....I rarely go home (or are left) with leftovers! I've had my fair share and learned a few lessons along the way.