Grilled Watermelon

There is nothing more refreshing, on a hot summer day, than a thick juicy piece of watermelon. It has become the staple side to any barbecue or picnic. Now add the depth that grilling brings to watermelon and you get a beautiful balance of smokey, sweet, and a touch of bitter. Transformed, the watermelon takes on a softer more pliable form. Here we accompany the watermelon with beautiful  baby heirloom tomato, the sharpness of the firm, yet creamy, feta cheese. With the addition of tangerine we brighten the tone of the dish and use the sunflower seeds for texture and complexity. Then we add mint to keep the freshness of the dish and add color. And finally we bring the dish together with a delightfully fresh and light mint-orange muscat vinaigrette.

Lychee

Originating from Southeast Asia, this fruit is encased in a thinly layered rind that can be easily peeled away to reveal the delicate translucent-white flesh of the lychee. This fragrantly sweet fruit has an enchantingly perfumed aroma that was once considered a delicacy among the Imperial Court of China. The potent floral scent is lost in the process of canning so it is best to enjoy these little gems fresh.

Choura Tasting at The Grand

Today, Choura Events had their annual menu tasting located at The Grand in Long Beach. Where, newly appointed, Executive Chef Uriel Villa showcased his new menu creations. Here are just a few of his many new food concepts that I was able to help style and photograph.

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Bread

Bread is one of the world's oldest prepared foods. So versatile with an almost infinite number of variations and applications, this staple has become the symbol of cultural communion.

Blueberry Pancakes

I woke up with a craving for blueberry pancakes and this is what I came up with.

Private Chef

Here are some random creations made while being a private chef for the most amazing family.

Choura - Bridal Show

Here's a Good shot from a recent bridal expo for Choura Events

Seared scallop on a lychee risotto cake with chili oil and watermelon radish.

Carson Community Center

Here's a couple shots from the Carson Community Center that I was just named Head Chef for.