Welcome to First Step Recipes!

Hi, I’m Emma, and I’m so happy you’re here.

You don’t need to cook like a pro—you just need to start.

Hi, I’m Emma, the voice (and mess-maker) behind First Step Recipes. I’m a home cook with a degree in nutrition and a deep love for food that actually feels good—without being fussy, filtered, or five hours long.

This blog was born in a tiny apartment kitchen where I once set off the smoke alarm making toast. True story. I didn’t grow up knowing how to cook—most of what I know came from trial, error, and lots of “what if I just add this?” moments. And that’s why First Step Recipes exists: to make cooking from scratch feel doable, even if you’re starting from absolute zero.

My goal? Help you cook real food, without the overwhelm.

You won’t find complicated gadgets or 20-step instructions here. What you will find are:

• Straightforward recipes that anyone can follow
• Ingredients you can actually find at a regular store
• A sprinkle of nutrition insight (without the food guilt)
• And a whole lot of “let’s try it and see” attitude

Because good food shouldn’t be gatekept behind chef hats or fancy plating. It should be fun, flexible, and fit your real life.

And yes, things still go sideways in my kitchen sometimes.
Burnt crusts? Been there. Forgot the salt? Last week. But every mishap is part of the process—and weirdly, part of the joy. You’ll never find perfection here. Just honesty, helpful tips, and encouragement to keep going, even when the sauce splits.

What makes this blog different?

I’m not just guessing. I bring real nutritional expertise to the table—so while the recipes here are about flavor first, I also sneak in tips for balance, energy, and everyday wellness. I believe food should nourish and delight.

So if you’re ready to make meals with more confidence and less stress—you’re in the right kitchen.
Let’s take that first step together and make something delicious, one easy recipe at a time.

— Emma C, BSc Nutrition From The University Of Manitoba.