In My Kitchen with Heidi Larsen

“I like to think that I’m a recycler, that I make multiple use of things in the kitchen. Sometimes I am, and sometimes I’m not. But if something is well designed—or just plain cute—I am far more inclined to find a new use for it once its original intent has been fulfilled. I’m not a fan of grocery store salad dressings, so one of my favorite uses for my Bonne Maman jam jars—Four Fruits is my favorite—is to use them as a one-stop shop for creating and storing my homemade versions. Dump, top, shake and serve all in one fell swoop. Here’s my recipe for Simple Italian Dressing that tops crunchy iceberg lettuce just right, perfect for pizza or spaghetti night.”

1/4 cup flavorless oil like canola or vegetable
3 tablespoons cider or red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon sugar
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper

Heidi Larsen is the founder, creative director and chief dishwasher of FoodieCrush.com, an online magazine and blog that loves food bloggers, their recipes and photos. She is also a photographer, recipe developer and e-book content creator and designer for multiple clients and partners. Heidi lives in Salt Lake City with her husband, daughter and three rescue mutts.

I met Heidi in person at Alt Summit 2013, nearly 4 months after she let me feature her for this series, What struck me most when we met was that she acted like I was somebody special, that I’d done her a favor by featuring her, when in reality, I was so grateful to have gotten somebody as busy and talented as Heidi to take time out to answer my questions and send me photos. She is so humble and so generous. Thank you, Heidi! xoxo