Do you have a food philosophy?
I obviously love all things food but I’m not very good at following certain rules – I’ve always said you should maintain balance between all the things you know are great for you, while also allowing yourself treats every now and again. Also, lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, all the time.
“I’ve always said you should maintain balance between all the things you know are great for you, while also allowing yourself treats every now and again.”
What makes you feel healthy?
Getting outdoors for a swim in the ocean or an energising run in the morning.
What is your fondest food memory?
Cooking with my grandmother when I was little – she had a herb and vegetable garden that we used to pick produce from and then we would cook a meal together. She also taught me how to bake.
Are there any foods you disliked that you’ve grown to love?
I have never liked oysters but I don’t see that changing anytime soon!
What’s your go-to meal on a busy night?
If I’m just cooking for myself, I love a big plate of sautéed greens (kale, spinach or broccoli) with chilli, garlic and lemon, and perhaps some quinoa for protein. If my boys are home, they love homemade pizzas or a quick frittata.
Your last supper would be…?
I’d probably miss it as it would take me too long to decide – I find it impossible to pick my favourite food! The meal would have to involve champagne though.
“I just bought a rowing machine so I’ve been giving that a work-out too!.” Image: Marcy Regatta Folding Rowing Machine, £295
Favourite snacks…?
Almonds and blueberries. And I always keep some sneaky bars of dark chocolate in my office drawer.
Favourite food treat…?
Ice-cream!
How about your favourite way to treat yourself without food?
“Blueberries are some of my favourite snacks.”
Does champagne count as food? Honestly, I’m so busy all the time that a real treat for me is to take some time out for myself, and usually I do that by exercising. I love going for a long run in the morning by the water or I just bought a rowing machine so I’ve been giving that a work-out too!
“I love going for a long run in the morning by the water.”
What is your ‘hero’ ingredient and why?
At the moment, I’m loving baking with raw cacao powder, which is a much more nutritious alternative to cocoa powder. It’s made by cold-pressing un-roasted coffee beans, which means it retains more minerals and antioxidants. I use it to make a delicious fudge-y cake, bliss balls or a raw slice.
I’m known for having a sweet tooth, so I feel good that I can create treats that are a little more on the guilt-free side. Another great tip is to add a spoonful of cacao powder to your banana smoothie in the morning for a chocolate-y twist and an added boost of antioxidants.
Do you enjoy trying new foods when travelling – and which countries/places have stood out to you most?
Absolutely – one of my favourite things about travelling and exploring new places is discovering the food culture. It’s great to see how trends are developing in other countries, how ingredients are being used, what’s being sold in supermarkets, and how it compares to what we have here in Australia. I always love visiting London and New York in particular as there are always so many exciting things going on.
“My grandma had a herb and vegetable garden that we used to pick produce from and then we would cook a meal together.”
“One of my favourite things about travelling and exploring new places is discovering the food culture.”
Five things you can’t live without in your kitchen/pantry?
A good-quality extra virgin olive oil, eggs, baby spinach leaves, my coffee machine, and my stand mixer for baking.
What does ‘balance’ mean to you?
Enjoying all the things you love, but in moderation; no strict rules and not denying yourself.
How do you stay on track when you travel?
It can be really difficult when you’re rushing around from flights to meetings and events, and crossing different time zones. I always make an effort to stay really hydrated, plus I always pack my trainers and try to squeeze in a run where I can (which isn’t always possible but the intention is there!)
What mantra do you live by?
“Visiting Norway to sleep in a glass-roofed igloo is on my bucket list.” Image: Kakslauttanen Artic Resort
Dare to be different, try new things and stay true to what you believe in.
Best advice you’ve been given?
When there’s a will, there’s a way!
Do you have a bucket list – and what’s on it?
Visiting Norway to sleep in a glass-roofed igloo and watch the Northern Lights. And sailing the Sydney to Hobart yacht race.
