Testimonials

Ah the joys of discussing shallots, mascarpone, or plump, fresh apricots fresh off the farm! These are conversations I've always had with Zest for Life chef Karen Sheer. Together we have shared a love for cooking since college days.

While Karen has advanced to chef, I remain simply a devoted home cook who eagerly sops up recipes from magazines, tips from food channels and instruction from those who know more than me about ingredients, tools and technique.

Karen is someone I learn a great deal from all the time. I have watched her career grow professionally as she went from the kitchen at Gourmet Magazine, to establishing a teaching and catering career of her own.

I have a file of Karen Sheer recipes and they surpass anything I've ever found in any other cookbook. If I use one (and I use many) I know the results will be an innovative, very flavorful and healthier version of whatever I was trying to make. Often they're not "versions" at all, but completely new creations that didn't exist before.

When I make one of her recipes I tell my guests that I'm almost certain that they will not leave my house or party without asking for that Karen Sheer recipe. Some of Karen's recipes that I depend on include a Orange Tamari Vinaigrette, a Celery Root Bisque with Peppered Pita Croutons, a Brisket recipe with caramelized onions that is absolutely toothsome, and Apricot and White Chocolate Biscotti just to name a few.

Karen's creativity is impressive. She sees no reason to cook or serve the "same-old" and always, and I mean always insists on food that is different, creative and healthy. She encourages friends and clients to step out of their cooking and serving ruts and excite their family and guests with something different.

I have also served as a prep cook for Karen at some of her catering events. She is decidedly focused and professional, insisting on the same level of dedication and attention to detail that she has when the spoon, pot and spices are in her hands.

As a writer and food reviewer in New York City since 2005, I have experienced some pretty fabulous meals.  I would eat, cook, or serve Karen's food at a special event with the same confidence and excitement I would have for meals prepared by the world's top chefs. Karen is an artist and innovator, and her canvas is the palate.  Her world of food is one worth pursuing.

Karen is such a talented chef she can make your shoes taste good.  I think I saw her make a whole cake in her Easy-Bake Oven.

When Karen cooks for you she pleases all the senses:  The beauty of her food presentation, the aroma of the food,  the taste of the food, the feel of the food in your hands when you take a cooking lesson, and then hearing the applause of your friends and family when they cheer your genius for hiring Karen to cook for you.  Karen's food is better than going on vacation!  Karen's food is love.

Dear Karen:

Just wanted to let you know how fantastic I thought the food and presentation were for my party. I have never seen vegetables as beautiful! I love that everything is organic and fresh! You helped make my party a big success and I cannot wait to have you cook for my guests again.