Paula Emery is a private chef based in Santa Rosa Beach , Florida whose company , Cookin ’ with Love , is a favorite among locals and visitors alike . Her focus ? “ Cooking right out of the garden .” Freshness and simplicity have always been her watchwords . In this issue , beachLIFE turns to Paula for her favorite cocktail and beach snack recipes . But first we take a moment to discuss her approach to cooking and the culinary arts .
A SIT-DOWN WITH PAULA EMERY
BL : What ’ s the best cooking tip you ’ ve ever been given ?
PE : Always enjoy yourself in the kitchen . Do not make it difficult . And always pour your heart into it !
BL : What sparked your interest in the culinary arts ?
PE : I honestly can ’ t remember . Ever since I was young , I enjoyed watching my mom in the kitchen and seeing the joy cooking gave her . It made my heart feel good as well . I truly think my interest was always there .
BL : How important are fresh ingredients to the success of a meal ?
PE : Freshness sharpens the taste . If your food is fresh , you don ’ t need to add much to it . Simplicity is the beauty of life — and cooking .
BL : What are some of the most common mistakes made in the kitchen ?
PE : Over-thinking things . Cook what makes you comfortable — and then add to that . Always taste your food while cooking it . This will help you and others enjoy your dish that much more ! Timing is the key to preparing a meal — having it all come together at the same time .
BL : What ’ s your favorite seafood dish ?
PE : When I was younger , my family traveled to Zihuatanejo , Mexico every year . There is this little restaurant on the beach named “ La Perla ” that served the best huachinago ( red snapper , from the Spanish ). It was our first meal when we arrived , and the family favorite — and it still is . The red snapper is cooked on the grill and served with corn tortillas , fresh pico de gallo , garlic , lime , avocado and jalapeno . Again , simplicity is the key !
COASTAL COCKTAILS SIP + SAVOR beachLIFE 95