Hello! My name is Alexe (pronounced like Alex, the “e” is silent) and welcome to my blog! I was inspired to begin blogging since I have been a food lover all of my life, and I currently work in an office where lean cuisines are consumed at a very scary pace. There’s nothing I cherish more than a home cooked meal, and I think that garlic and onions sautéing in a pan with olive oil is the best smell in the world.
I am from a large Italian family which translates into something like this: food is the center of everything we do, food is love, and it isn’t a party until the antipasti is served. I was born the youngest of four girls and, surprise, I am super close with my family. My Mom will tell you that I don’t enjoy leftovers, rather I like fresh meals each night. My childhood friend Hillary once said I talk about my food as I eat each and every bite, and my sister Brooke says I plan my meals way too far in advance.
You will find easy and approachable recipes on my blog with no more than 10-15 ingredients and minimal prep time. You can also follow my travels or “food-cations” as I like to call them and learn about the food memories that I’ve developed while learning how to cook in a large family of fiery and vibrant women.
As of March 2016 I am enrolled in 20- week culinary program at L’Academie de Cuisine to further refine my cooking skills. Check out my weekly recaps of each class here.
What’s with the name?
Most people know me as a musician, and the piano or “keys” is my main instrument. I am a singer/songwriter and have been performing locally in the Washington, D.C. area for ten years. Integrating music and food was a no-brainer because they play a huge role in my life, and I think they are the most important elements to entertaining. You can also listen to my original songs here.
Lastly, “cucina” is the Italian word for kitchen. It pays homage to my ethnicity and also supports my belief that the kitchen is the most important room in the house. If you appreciate food like I do, I invite you to follow Keys to the Cucina!