A Journey of Flavor, Heritage, and Celebration

Welcome to Keeping it Lucy: The Home of Real Food, where I invite you to join me on a culinary voyage filled with flavors, stories, and heartfelt moments around the table. As I embark on this new adventure, I’m thrilled to share my passion for cooking and baking, fueled by a lifetime of love and inspiration rooted in my Portuguese heritage.

From the bustling kitchen of my childhood home to the cozy haven of my own kitchen today, cooking has always been a labor of love passed down through generations. My mother, with her unwavering dedication and boundless creativity, has been my guiding light on this culinary journey. With our Portuguese background serving as the backdrop, she instilled in me not just the techniques of cooking, but also the essence of hospitality – the art of bringing people together through food, laughter, and shared stories.

Growing up in a household where the aroma of spices and the sizzle of seafood, meats, and bread were constant companions, I developed a deep appreciation for the rich tapestry of flavors that define Portuguese cuisine and so much more. This connection to my cultural roots and the desire to share Portugal’s vibrant tastes and traditions with a wider audience fuels my passion for cooking and baking.

In addition to my culinary pursuits, my background in education has equipped me with the skills and mindset to approach cooking with curiosity, creativity, and attention to detail. As a former early childhood educator and paraprofessional in elementary school, I understand the importance of patience, organization, and the power of learning through hands-on experiences – qualities that serve me well in the kitchen.

As a proud stay-at-home mom now, I cherish the opportunity to create nourishing meals for my family and friends, and to open my home to others, welcoming them to my table with open arms. My kitchen is not just a place of culinary experimentation; it is a sanctuary where memories are made, stories are shared, and the warmth of friendship flourishes over a shared meal.

My journey into the world of food is also shaped by the resilience and determination of my parents, who immigrated to the United States in the late 1970s in search of a better life. Coming from humble beginnings, they brought with them the values of hard work, perseverance, and an unwavering love for family – values that continue to inspire me in my culinary endeavors.

Being Portuguese means being surrounded by food – it’s woven into the fabric of our culture, our traditions, and our everyday lives. From festive celebrations to simple family gatherings, food is the heart and soul of our community, bringing people together in moments of joy, comfort, and connection.

In addition to celebrating my Portuguese heritage through traditional dishes, I am also passionate about creating meals that are accessible to everyone. I believe that good food should not only be delicious, but also easy to prepare, simple to execute, and budget-friendly. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a leisurely weekend brunch, I strive to share recipes that are approachable and adaptable. From hearty one-pot meals to wholesome salads and comforting desserts, my blog is a reflection of my love for exploring all kinds of recipes – from time-honored classics to innovative twists on familiar favorites. I’m constantly inspired by the endless possibilities in the kitchen.

Thank you for joining me on this culinary journey. I invite you to pull up a chair, savor the flavors, and share in the stories that make each meal a memorable experience. Together, let’s celebrate the beauty of food, the richness of heritage, and the joy of gathering around the table.