Paper Palate

The July issue of Woman’s Day includes a feature entitled “Dishing with the Queen of Quick.” Not surprisingly, said Queen is Rachael Ray. She explains her cooking philosophy in the article, which is uniquely written in the first person. Rachael comes across as self-effacing with statements like, “You’re not going to learn a fabulous new technique from me; I just make dinner.”

Despite her fascination with making burgers (a search on the Food Network web site revealed over 30 Rachael Ray burger recipes), Rachael reveals in the article that she does not eat junk food. In fact, her idea of junk food “is eating seconds.” She admits that while she has never eaten a twinkie (gasp!), she finds that eating burgers and pizza is okay because she transforms them into healthier fare.

The article includes recipes for some of Rachael’s favorites: Raspberry Sorbet Desserts, Macho Gazpacho and Tuna Pan Bagnat. However, the most striking part of the article to me was the following quote, which offers a clue into what has made Rachael Ray so successful and appealing to the average cook:

Don’t set the bar too high. Rip complicated recipes apart and simplify them so you’ll want to make them again.

I think it’s that attitude that attracts readers to her magazine and that will likely attract viewers to her new talk show debuting in the Fall. While some people want to learn gourmet cooking techniques and recipes, others simply want to make a healthy, tasty meal for dinner.

The magazine also did a quick Q&A with Rachael, which you can check out here.