Perhaps my ‘need to feed’ stems from my Mexican and “Okie” heritage.  It’s all about food, family, and fun!  Julia Child once said, “Find something you’re passionate about and keep tremendously interested in it”.  I was raised in the kitchen by a mom who loved cooking and did so with great gusto and passion. For me, this has translated into a true love for all things food related.  After more than 20 years in the early childhood education field and with a lifelong interest in cooking, I made a major career change and decided to let my passion support my dreams and “Denise is Cooking” was born!   Nurturing others with my cooking, gives me such joy!  I am truly passionate about great food and I look forward to bringing my skills to your kitchen to create delicious and nourishing meals for your family.

I am committed to purchasing only the freshest, best quality and, when available, locally produced ingredients for your meals.  It’s not uncommon for me to visit the local farmers  market or CSA as well as the conventional grocery stores in search of the freshest and best ingredients.

I would be privileged if “Denise is Cooking” were the first thought that comes to mind when you are pondering the “what’s for dinner” question.   Exchange the stress of what to cook for the peace of mind in knowing you already have the convenience of a nutritious meal waiting for you to just heat and eat.

Planning a special event?  Need help?

I share my life with my fabulous husband, Jay and our 5 gorgeous fur babies in the amazing Willo Historic District in Phoenix, Arizona..   We love to entertain on a pretty monumental scale.  After years of cooking for family, and an ever expanding circle of friends, I now want to cook for YOU!

Over the past 5 years, I have grown more confident in the kitchen and now am undaunted by the prospect of Thanksgiving for 115 people (yes, it’s true–we do it every year and every year, more friends show up to give thanks!).  I also catered my own surprise wedding in April, which was a real highlight of my cooking adventures.  There is nothing like the look on 170 faces when they realize the party they were invited to is really our wedding!  We have had a blast planning themed parties like ‘drive in movie night–with a 14 foot inflatable screen and homemade snack bar inspired treats and an outrageous 70’s Fondue Groovefest for our party going friends.  I always get a kick out of watching my friends enjoy the fruits of my labors.

Planning a wedding or baby shower? Want to “rock the Casbah” with Moroccan inspired soiree?  Have you always wanted to host a wine and cheese tasting for a small circle of friends? Whatever you have in mind,  I would be happy to help you make your event unforgettable.   I will not only develop a fantastic menu, but can also help with other details from the invitations to the decorations.