Lavender Design + Cuisine

Monday, January 5, 2026

Taste the World: 2026 Plant-Based Mediterranean Cooking & Wine Pairing Classes

Insalata di finocchi e arance rosse

(fennel & blood orange salad)

Greetings Foodies & Wine Lovers,

I’m thrilled to share that in 2026 my focus will be exclusively on private culinary experiences, bringing the vibrant world of farm-to-table, plant-based French, Italian, Spanish, and Moroccan cuisine directly to you!

My popular cooking and wine pairing classes will now be offered exclusively as bespoke, intimate events, ensuring every dish is crafted with organic, seasonal, and locally-sourced ingredients—including herbes de Provence straight from my garden.

Choose the perfect setting for your next gathering:

🔹 Private Team-Building Events: I’m heading back to my old stomping grounds in Silicon Valley to host bespoke, interactive culinary adventures within high-tech companies. A unique way to connect and collaborate over a shared meal!

🔹 Individual & Small Group Classes: Perfect for private parties, special occasions, or a fun gathering of up to 10 people. Elevate your dinner into a memorable group cooking class for friends and family.

The Ultimate Farm-to-Table Experience, Crafted in Your Home!

As your private chef, I handle everything with care: from custom menu creation featuring vibrant Mediterranean flavors to grocery shopping, cooking, and—best of all—cleanup. You simply relax, indulge, and savor high-quality ingredients and fine wine.

Above photo is a peek at my culinary style: My take on the classic insalata di finocchi e arance rosse (fennel blood orange salad) elevates the traditional Sicilian salad with the rich, jewel-toned flavor of blood oranges and the briny depth of Moroccan olives, finished with a fragrant citrus-cardamom vinaigrette.

As an extra perk, all registered students in my classes will receive a one-time 10% discount offer on all items available (including amazing wines) from the best kitchen store, the Toque Blanche in downtown Santa Cruz and online! Discount code will be provided in each class.

Ready for a magnificent culinary journey? Please contact me to book your private experience and begin custom-crafting your menu!

Bon Appetite!

Ellie Lavender
Space Curator & Avant Garde Chef
Lavender Design + Cuisine

Let's connect: Instagram | Facebook

Friday, January 2, 2026

Bread Recipe: Morello Cherry, Walnut & Cardamom

Morello Cherry Walnut Cardamom Bread

Experience the joy of baking this plant-based artisan loaf. Perfect for both seasoned bakers and beginners, this fragrant bread requires zero kneading. Savor it warm, plain, or dressed up with plant-based butter and orange marmalade. Add a custom label for an unforgettable, personalized culinary gift!

Prep time: 15–20 minutes
Bake time: 55–60 minutes

The Ingredients

2 cups spelt flour
1 stick plant-based sweet butter, melted (room temperature)
1 cup plain oat milk
2/3 cup chopped toasted walnuts
2/3 cup dried Morello cherries
1 tbsp baking powder
1/3 tsp ground cardamom
2 tbsp orange zest
1/3 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
1/4 tsp sea salt

The Instructions

Prep the Oven & Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Generously brush a standard loaf pan (8.5 x 4.5 inches) with a bit of the melted plant-based butter and set aside.
Mix the Dry Base: In a medium bowl, combine the spelt flour, walnuts, cherries, baking powder, cardamom, orange zest, and sea salt.
Whisk the Liquids: In a small bowl, whisk together the oat milk, orange juice, and the remaining melted plant-based butter.
Combine: Pour the liquid mixture over the dry ingredients. Mix gently with a fork until just combined, then pour the batter into your greased loaf pan.
Bake: Bake for 55–60 minutes until the top is beautifully golden brown.
Cool & Serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest on a wire cooling rack for one hour. Run a paring knife around the edges to loosen, flip onto a cutting board, slice with a serrated knife, and enjoy!

Happy Baking!

Ellie Lavender
Space Curator & Avant Garde Chef
Lavender Design + Cuisine

Let's connect: Instagram | Facebook

Friday, October 3, 2025

Christmas Table Ideas | Centerpiece and Place Settings

The holiday table is a blank canvas, and it doesn't matter if your guests number one or ten—the goal is to create a setting that feels celebratory and inviting. Before you rush out to the stores, take a fresh look at what you already own. You might be surprised to find that a festive and memorable table is just a few creative touches away.

So, let’s get started!

Select color themes - One of the first things to establish before creating your table design is the color palette. Choose 2-3 colors max. Then you’ll want to choose serve-wares, textiles, decor and foliage that work within the color theme you’ve chosen.

Consider scale - Do not overcrowd your dining table. Choose everything based on the size of the table, number of chairs and guests.

Apply contrast to create interest - If your tablecloth is white or a neutral color, use tabletop items that are bolder in color such as different shades of green and red.

Incorporate various heights - By incorporating elements with varying heights, you create variety, interest, depth and dimension in your dining table decor.

Make your table vibrant - Use fresh flowers, foliage, fruits and even seasonal vegetables on your table to provide texture and color.

Create a center piece - A centerpiece can be a winter greenery with shiny red berries, flowers and candles (avoid scented candles, they’ll interfere with your foods’ aroma).

Most of all have fun with your table set up and don’t hesitate to ask family and friends to help, not only they’ll have great ideas, but also can contribute by providing flowers, greenery, etc.

Wishing you a holiday season full of incredible flavors and happy moments!

Ellie Lavender
Space Curator & Avant Garde Chef
Lavender Design + Cuisine

Let's connect: Instagram | Facebook