Pamela Smith

Connect Who or what inspires you to cook?

I am inspired by the dynamic characteristics of whole foods and their complex spectrum of flavor. Eating healthy can be a carnival of fun when capturing the essence of flavor and curating a composition that can yield health benefits. This inspiration is not only when speaking with patients but when creating meals for my teen athlete who requires nutritional fuel that is substantial, healthy, and tasty!

What's your all time favorite dish to make?

Spanakopita. This dish carries a little more fat than most of my dishes but I truly enjoy making it. It can be a two day process to allow the spinach to drain so that it does not make the phyllo soggy. The dill, parsley, green onions, spinach, and crisp phyllo fill the kitchen with uplifting and energizing aroma. The dish is also a recipe from my Mediterranean heritage which makes it a favorite holiday treat.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would like to establish a healthy whole food resource for populations that may be at risk. The resources would focus on people and families who need information and access related to optimal nutrition for their health. Food scarcity and poor nutrition happens across many demographics such as college students, grade school children, and importantly, the family unit. This can lead to poor academic outcomes and chronic disease. Let's make food fun, accessible, and understandable.