Welcome to my kitchen!

I’m Kathleen, an Iowa-based chef with roots in Lyon, France, and a deep passion for Mediterranean cuisine. This blog is a space dedicated to food enthusiasts who are captivated by the vibrant, fresh, and flavorful world of Mediterranean dishes.

Growing up in Lyon, a city renowned for its culinary heritage, I was immersed in the rich traditions of French cooking from an early age. The bustling markets, artisanal bakeries, and an appreciation for quality ingredients instilled in me a deep love for food. However, my culinary journey didn’t stop at the borders of France. I’ve always been fascinated by the bold, sun-kissed flavors of the Mediterranean region, from the olive groves of Greece to the coastal seafood of Italy and the spice markets of Morocco. This passion became the heart of CuisineCrafted.

As a chef who now calls Iowa home, I’ve combined the farm-to-table ethos of the Midwest with the Mediterranean approach to food: simple, fresh, and deeply flavorful. Through CuisineCrafted, I’m excited to share my favorite Mediterranean-inspired dishes with you, along with tips and techniques to bring the warmth and richness of this cuisine into your kitchen.

What can you expect from CuisineCrafted?

Authentic Mediterranean Recipes: My goal is to transport you to the Mediterranean coast through your plate. You’ll find a collection of authentic Mediterranean recipes, from Greek moussaka to Spanish paella, Italian antipasti to Moroccan tagines. These dishes are packed with wholesome ingredients like olive oil, fresh herbs, citrus, grains, and seafood, all designed to nourish your body and soul.

Seasonal, Local Ingredients: While I bring Mediterranean flavors to the forefront, I also believe in using the best ingredients available locally. Living in Iowa, I’ve developed a strong connection to local farmers and producers, incorporating fresh, seasonal produce into my recipes. I’ll show you how to create Mediterranean-inspired dishes using what’s available at your local markets, making this cuisine accessible no matter where you live.

Culinary Techniques and Tips: Mediterranean cooking is all about simplicity, letting ingredients shine. But there’s an art to achieving those balanced flavors and perfect textures. I’ll guide you through essential Mediterranean techniques like making the perfect homemade pasta, mastering olive oil-based dressings, or grilling fish to perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting, you’ll find helpful tips here to elevate your meals.

A Taste of Lyon: With my French culinary background, you’ll also find some French influences throughout the blog. After all, Lyon is considered the gastronomic capital of France. I bring a touch of my French roots into my Mediterranean dishes, adding a unique fusion of styles that reflects my journey as a chef.

Inspiration for Entertaining: Mediterranean cuisine is meant to be shared. I’ll offer ideas for creating beautiful, communal meals perfect for gatherings, whether it’s a casual mezze platter or an elegant multi-course feast.

I’m thrilled to have you here at CuisineCrafted, where Mediterranean flavors and my personal culinary journey come together. Let’s explore the delicious world of Mediterranean cuisine, one dish at a time!