Kevin Dahlstrom

Who or what inspires you to cook?

My Great Grandmother is at the heart of everything. I never spent time before or after meals with the men watching TV; I was in the kitchen helping, watching, asking and learning. I am also inspired by watching any food related shows and websites I can get my hands on to help keep me fresh and challenge me. I am also inspired by people's reactions to my food and spread my love and gratitude through what I make.

What's your all time favorite dish to make?

Homemade pasta. I used to host a pasta making holiday party and involved all of our friends, family and their children. All of them got to be involved in making the pasta and tasting their final creation. I hope it inspires them to continue spreading love through cooking. As Chef Dad I show my love through food. My Italian side, my adopted Jewish side and my adopted Black American side. I have turned my children into picky eaters, my children have profound palates, because of me! Mangia!

What would you do with the $25,000?

Wow...hard question. Being out of work for awhile has hurt financially. I would use the prize to invest in my children as much as I could and even perhaps pursue going to culinary school! I may be old, but I'm not out! Oh, and, maybe get my teeth fixed so I can really get back to enjoying food! Travel the world; learning, tasting, creating and sharing.