About the project
Flavor by Design is a long-running test kitchen for Italian roots and global flavors.
I grew up in a small coastal city in Maine called Portland, where my family settled after immigrating from Italy. In our home, it was customary to offer food to anyone who was hungry or in need. My great-grandmother would leave her door open on Sundays after church so people could wander in for a plate of spaghetti and meatballs. That open-door, “there’s always room at the table” mindset shaped who I am.
I’ve spent the last 17 years in the Army, traveling around the world and discovering new flavors that blend beautifully with the Italian traditions I was raised with. This site is my way of keeping that family tradition alive—sharing the food I cook, the recipes I collect, and the flavors I’ve found along the way.
My hope is that you’ll find something here you love, and if you feel inspired to share one of your own recipes, you’re always welcome to do so. This will remain a free recipe repository for as long as I live. I hope you find the same joy in the kitchen that I do.
I’m not a trained chef—just a home cook who believes good food should feel welcoming, not intimidating. Most of the recipes you’ll find here are simple, flexible, and designed to be shared, whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd. If you’re new to the kitchen, don’t worry— you can go through it step by step.