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With over 1 million followers onInstagramand the launch of her cookbookPass the Plate, Carolina Gelen has made a name for herself since immigrating to the U.S. in 2021 to pursue cooking.
Originally from Romania, Gelen’s upbringing has shaped her approach to cooking as she aims to make the most out of her recipes while keeping them budget-friendly. Through her partnership with Pinterest andPrimal Kitchen, curating recipes for the Colorful Kitchen Pop-Up,EatingWellhad the opportunity to chat with Gelen about her favorite snacks and ingredients she always has on hand—plus her tips for effective meal prep. Read on for the exclusive interview.
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EatingWell:What is your favorite snack that you always have on hand?
EatingWell:What are your top three kitchen staples?
Gelen:Definitelyfermented foods. I always make sure to have some pickles or sauerkraut. Especially for dinners, it’s so easy to add sauerkraut to chicken, fish or a salad. It brings so much delicious brightness to whatever you’re eating. I also always make sure to have condiments on hand, which is why Primal Kitchen is such an organic partnership for me. I’m stocked with their Buffalo sauce, which has the perfect balance of heat and tartness. I use it to make sheet-pan Buffalo cauliflower bowls. Another item I always have on hand is tinned fish. I think it’s such a great source of protein, and [it’s] something I grew up eating in Romania since we didn’t have a lot of money. I love that it’s affordable and approachable.
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EatingWell:What are your tips for effective meal prep?
Gelen:Divide your tasks into different days. One day, chop five or six veggies and another day, prep some protein. I always have something marinating in the fridge, even if it’s just putting salt on chicken. It’s one less thing for you to have to do. Also, having some premade sauces and dressings on hand will save you so much time.
EatingWell:Do you have any anti-inflammatory meals or ingredients you like to use?
Gelen:I think tinned fish is No. 1 on my list. All those omega-3s are so good for you and it’s a light protein. It’s approachable, not that expensive and something you can always have in your kitchen.
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