This is very important to me! I was always frustrated with the lack of time for creative cooking when I was working, commuting and training full-time. Right now I have a little more "open time," as well as a good-sized kitchen...ooohh, the luxury. Got to savor it while it lasts!

In the process of trying out new, fun recipes (like Vietnamese clay-pot fish, which we *love* to order when we get down to Saigon On Fifth in Hillcrest), I've entered a few recipe contests. I mean, why not? I haven't won yet, but Contessa was kind enough to send me about $30 worth of free product coupons - for frozen shrimp, which I use all the time. Extra bonus, we get to eat the stuff I've made!

This is the Vietnamese Shrimp Salad (minus the requisite shredded cabbage) that scored me the free product: