The Original Inspiration

This book came about after an extended trip to Italy where I had gained several pounds after a bit too much pizza, pasta and vino. Upon my return, I switched my evening drink from wine to tequila and lost all the weight that I had put on during my trip.  In just 8 weeks of no wine and only tequila, I was a lean mean cooking machine. I had an epiphany…. Not only is tequila delicious but drinking it has helped me lose some weight!  Then and there, the idea for The Tequila Diet was born. 

I began joking to friends and family about how I’d just lost all this weight on The Tequila Diet and that everyone must join me in my quest for happiness and occasional weight loss. I started researching the validity of my tequila diet claim and sure enough discovered that tequila did indeed have some healthful properties. I love to share these “facts” with family and friends when sipping this magical spirit. Delicious, AND full of  health benefits, this is what makes tequila my go-to spirit.

As a consummate fan of Mexico, the people, their culture, the food and the tequila, I decided to embark on sharing what makes Mexico so special to me through the lens of food and cocktails. I’ve spent time all over the country from Mazatlán to Puerto Vallarta, Punta Mita to Cancun, Tulum to Manzanillo, Mexico City and beyond. Mexico is a land of vibrancy, color, and celebration reflected through the food and drink from each of the various regions.

The Tequila Diet features some of my favorite recipes inspired both by growing up in Southern California and my frequent trips exploring the beautiful Mexican countryside. My love of Mexican food began as a child. I have fond memories of devouring dishes like my mom’s signature chicken enchiladas and crispy shell beef tacos. When mom wasn’t cooking, we took family trips to our local grab & go joints like El Burrito in Redlands, California sampling burritos, hot sauce, rice & beans and more. There is nothing better than an overstuffed burrito with a grilled tortilla and a huge stash of homemade hot sauce to dip into until you are stuffed like a burrito.