Christopher Zelaya

Connect Who or what inspires you to cook?

Cooking inspires me because of my mother, an immigrant worker who tirelessly balanced multiple jobs yet never let us go without a warm meal. Her resilience in the face of hardship and her ability to transform simple ingredients into something comforting and full of love showed me that food is more than sustenance—it’s a way to care for others. Her unwavering spirit and determination to provide fueled my passion for cooking, inspiring me to create meals that nourish both body and soul

What's your all time favorite dish to make?

My favorite dish to make is red snapper ceviche, a true comfort food. I love transforming fresh snapper into a vibrant blend of flavors, marinating it in zesty lime juice until perfectly tender. The mix of diced tomatoes, red onions, cilantro, and spicy jalapeños brings a refreshing crunch, while creamy avocado adds richness. A touch of sea salt and a hint of garlic tie everything together. Serving it chilled with crisp tortilla chips makes each bite a burst of brightness and satisfaction

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I win $25,000, I would invest it in buying a food truck to turn my dream of owning a business into reality. This would let me share my passion for cooking with more people, bringing fresh, flavorful meals to the streets. The mobility of a food truck means I can reach different communities, build a loyal customer base, and expand my meal prep services. Owning a business isn’t just about profit—it’s about creating connections through food and carrying forward my culinary visio