Hi! I’m Joanie.
I’m the photographer, cook and recipe writer-downer here at The Dinner Bell. I started this food blog to catalogue my “greatest hits” recipes.
I live in Phoenix, Arizona where I work as a commercial food photographer working with fun brands like Coach’s Oats, True Salt, Torani, Shamrock Farms, MOINK! and local restaurants in the greater Phoenix area.
The only thing I like more than cooking is cooking for others. I have a ton of tried-and-true recipes that I love to prepare for friends and family. I started this blog as a way of cataloging those recipes. For some reason, I have the darndest time keeping track of the recipe box I received as a wedding present. It has Nana’s Famous Enchiladas and Grammy’s Family Caesar Salad recipes, so before I lose it again, I figured, let’s make it permanent here on the internet.
I also share my everyday weeknight favorites that fall in line with my love of low-carb, plant-based foods. Because as much as I love grandma’s comfort foods, I also need quality fuel for my busy lifestyle. Hooray for balance!
My photography business wouldn’t have happened had I not been food obsessed since childhood. I didn’t grow up in a foodie household, but when I was 10-years old I asked my Mom if I could make Tandoori Chicken. I’m certain she was confused where this culinary kiddo came from, but she obliged my request and I’ve been cooking ever since.
The recipes you’ll find here are all:
- Well tested! I do not want to give you a recipe that won’t work in your kitchen.
- Made for your average American household. I do love me some fancy ingredients, but at the end of the day, it’s the cozy comfort foods and family favorites that win every time.
- I have modified some of the family favorites that have been handed down to me to omit some of the processed food items. Things like canned soups and anything instant, I try to avoid…except in Grammy’s Potato Rolls. Those MUST be made with instant potatoes. No exceptions!
Thanks so much for stopping by and feel free to drop me a line at food@joaniesimon.com if you have any questions or just want to say ‘hi’!