In my design business, there are a lot of rules that must be followed. Especially when preparing a document for print or output. You can’t just hope that something turns out right, you have to take steps to insure it will. Measurements, process color percentages, bleeds on documents; and so many more. Violate those rules and, well. No fun.

I think that’s why I love cooking so much. Sure you have to measure more adeptly when baking. I mean, without leavening a cake won’t rise. Without oil, meat will stick, and so forth. But I love the fact that you can take building blocks and create new combinations almost every time. It makes me feel so free and creative…and rebellious as well.

Take this quick recipe for baked chicken thighs. Colorful, balanced, and composed with just things on hand. The only rule? be nice to the person sitting next to you. The rest! Nosh on!