I discovered my passion for healthy cooking through Olivewood Gardens’ “Cooking for Salud” program, a bilingual nutrition education and behavior modification training initiative. I was born and raised in Tijuana, Baja California, and as a Mexican mother, I’ve always embraced the rich cultural traditions of my Mexican heritage, which often center around hearty, meat-centered dishes. However, driven by desire to explore healthier alternatives and enrich my family’s diet, I joined the program out of curiosity, and immediately loved it.
Having inherited my love for cooking from my mother, I had limited exposure to healthy ingredients in the past. The program introduced me to innovative ways to incorporate vegetables, grains, and spices into my dishes –– and I learned that protein doesn’t have to come solely from meat. The hands-on classes taught me new techniques, such as using nutritional yeast in place of salt, experimenting with vegetarian dishes like cauliflower ceviche, and re-creating traditional favorites like mushroom pozole with a healthier twist.
This experience has not only influenced my own eating habits, but also those of my family. Today, even my husband—once a daily meat enthusiast—is excited to try the new plant-based meals I prepare. My children, including my 19-year-old son Marko, have embraced healthier choices, and Marko’s involvement in the program has further strengthened our bond, making him a supportive ally in the kitchen. Our shared commitment to healthy living has opened our home to vibrant, plant-based meals, creating a family environment focused on health and wellness. My ultimate goal is to eat meat only once a week.
I am also passionate about volunteering within my community. I try to help people in my community discover the joy and health benefits of mindful cooking. Volunteering at Olivewood Gardens and Learning Center since graduating from the program in 2019, I’ve become a proud “Kitchenista” and continue to play an active role in facilitating the Cooking for Salud program. I am especially excited to have contributed to the Thrive Global Cookbook, which showcases healthy recipes, further strengthening my connection to my community and the causes I care about. For me, it’s about more than just sharing recipes — it’s about empowering others to be mindful and to make nutritious, informed choices about the foods they buy and the meals they cook, so everyone can optimize their physical and mental health.