Spending time in my kitchen represents creativity and joy. I work on my blog, arrange flowers, have my coffee in the wee hours, write down my visions and gratitude list, and most of all, our family enjoys yummy meals here, while Buster our dog chills on his cozy bed. On Sunday mornings, I look forward to checking out the food section and being inspired from beautiful photos and great chef recipes. Last weekend I read an article on Dakota Weiss, (Top Chef) from Estrella Restaurant, Located in West Hollywood on Sunset Boulevard, right here in our hood. I can't wait to experience Estrella! in the meantime... I decided to give it a go in my own kitchen.

Inspired Dish from Dakota Weiss - Baked Chicken / Red & Yellow Beets / Spicy Red Cabbage / Walnuts / Yogurt / Edible Flowers/ FRANK FAMILY VINEYARDS 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon / William Yeoward China / Take a look at Backyard Boss / Everything you need to know about edible flowers.

I am fortunate to have a Whole Foods five minutes from my home. The Prepared food section is the next best thing to home cooking, and soooo fresh. I really love the challenge of admiring photos of delicious foods, then attempting to recreate and make it my own. These beets are already prepared, I added red cabbage that I marinated in Rice Vinegar and a Habanero pepper to the red beets; it gives a real kick to the cabbage, and a vibrant color: Crushed walnuts... Did you know that there is one nut that has more brain-enhancing essential Omega 3's than other nuts? And it kinda looks like a brain...Yep it's the walnut. Adding edible flowers from Backyard Boss gives a delicate and elegant touch to your dish. ( Marigolds add a peppery punch flavor)

Fage Greek Strained Yogurt / takes the place of sour cream,

The Kitchn.com is my favorite chicken recipe, it's quick and flawless every time. I used a little Mache Lettuce (known as corn salad) to add a little green color. Why not find a photo of one of your favorite chefs, and add your own creative twist to their recipe. You can't make a mistake, only a mess and a tasty meal! Presentation is a big part of the meal, taking the time to make your plate beautiful feels creative and looks fab. Enjoy your process, remember...your energy goes right into your meal that makes it's way into your body, along with those gathered at your table. I look forward to dining at Estrella, here in West Hollywood. Our city is abundant with incredible restaurants and top chefs. At least I get to be a creative chef in my own kitchen...and in my own mind.

‎”This is my advice to people: Learn how to cook, try new recipes, learn from your mistakes, be fearless, and above all have fun”-Julia Child