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About Ava Meals!
Nancy Padgett is a home cook, recipe developer, and food enthusiast. Her easy-to-follow, flavorful recipes have helped countless readers bring delicious meals to their tables. Nancy kitchen-tested dishes and helpful tips make cooking approachable and fun for all skill levels.
Her work has been featured across popular food blogs and cooking platforms, inspiring others to create meals that are both simple and satisfying.
Our Story
Hi, I’m Nancy, the cook, recipe developer, and writer behind Ava meals.
My culinary journey began when I discovered how food has the unique power to connect people. Growing up, I was inspired by the vibrant, fresh flavors of my cultural roots and combined them with a passion for easy-to-make meals. From there, I set out to create recipes that blend tradition with innovation, bringing comfort and creativity to every dish.
After experimenting in the kitchen and sharing my creations with friends and family, I decided to launch Mila Cookes. What began as a passion project has turned into a growing community of home cooks, all sharing a love for real, home-cooked meals that foster connection and creativity.
What You’ll Find Here
At Mila Cookes, you’ll find recipes that are:
- Comforting & Flavorful: Whether it's a cozy dinner or a sweet treat, every recipe is made to bring joy to your table.
- Fresh & Seasonal: We prioritize using in-season ingredients for the freshest and most flavorful dishes.
- Simple & Easy-to-Follow: Whether you're making dinner on a busy weeknight or preparing for a special event, our recipes are straightforward and delicious.
- Sweet & Savory: From savory mains to indulgent desserts, there's something for every craving.
I believe that cooking should never feel intimidating. Each recipe is tested in my own kitchen to ensure it works every time.
My Focus & Philosophy
Cooking is all about connection, creativity, and feeling confident in your kitchen. That’s why I’m passionate about sharing:
- Step-by-step instructions with helpful photos and tips to guide you every step of the way.
- Ingredient swaps to accommodate dietary preferences and regional availability.
- Culinary education to help you understand the ‘why’ behind the techniques.
Food should bring people together, and that’s always our goal at Mila Cookes.
Credentials & Experience
Education & Training:
- Diploma in Professional Cookery, The Manchester College (2019)
- Culinary Skills Level 2
- Patisserie Level 3
- Food Hygiene Level 3 & Allergen Awareness (2020)
- Breadmaking Workshop, Food Sorcery Cook School (Didsbury, 2021)
- Pastry Basics Masterclass with Chef Jason Lomas (Salford, 2022)
Experience:
- Founder, Mila Cookes (2025 - present)
- Private Caterer & Supper-Club Host, across North Carolina
- Contributor, AllRecipes.com
- Collaborations with local farmers’ markets to promote seasonal produce
Press & Awards:
- Short-listed – Food Blogger Awards 2024
- Featured in local publications like The Carolina Chronicle
- Featured on BBC Radio Carolina discussing creative, comfort food with a twist
Community & Teaching
At Mila Cookes, we believe food is about sharing. I love connecting with fellow home cooks, whether it’s through workshops or community events. I host monthly cooking workshops covering everything from quick weeknight meals to fun baking tips.
I also volunteer with local food banks to help families cook affordable and healthy meals and support initiatives that teach kids the importance of home cooking.
Join Our Community
Whether you’re trying a new recipe or mastering a classic dish, you’ll feel at home here at Mila Cookes.
Join over 10K fellow food lovers receiving:
- Seasonal recipes
- Cooking tips
- Exclusive updates straight from my kitchen
Sign up for the newsletter below or email me directly at sarah@milacookes.com.
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Contact Sarah
Sarah
📍 North Carolina, United States
📧 sarah@milacookes.com