Johanna Paz Avila

Connect Who or what inspires you to cook?

The women in both sides of my family have been my biggest inspiration in the kitchen. I grew up watching them cook with love, creativity, and tradition, turning simple ingredients into incredible meals. Their passion and skill shaped my appreciation for food and inspired me to pursue a career in culinary arts.

What's your all time favorite dish to make?

I grew up with my family making lasagna, and it was always a dish filled with love and tradition. As I got more interested in healthier cooking, I decided to give it a twist by turning it into eggplant parmigiana. By replacing pasta with eggplant, I kept the rich flavors while making it lighter. Now, every time I make it, I feel connected to my family’s tradition but with a healthier spin, sharing both love and nourishment in every bite.

What would you do with the $25,000?

If I win the $25,000 prize, I would invest it into my culinary digital project to create and offer practical solutions for people with dietary restrictions. The funds would help me launch products designed to meet their unique needs, improve my platform, and generate content that empowers my audience. This investment would enable me to provide tailored, healthy options that make it easier for them to maintain a balanced diet.