Welcome!
Hi there, I'm Alla !
I’m the creator behind Minty Kitchen, where I share healthy, easy-to-make recipes that focus on simple, clean ingredients. I know firsthand how challenging it can be to live with food sensitivities and allergies—both through my own digestive health journey and my child’s peanut allergy. That’s why I create flexible, approachable recipes that are safe, delicious, and designed to make your life easier. Whether you’re managing food allergies or dietary needs or just looking for stress-free meals, I’m here to help you cook with confidence and joy.
Simple Recipes • Simple Ingredients • Simply Delicious
What you'll find here
I believe the best meals are often the simplest ones. Quality ingredients need little embellishment—just good technique and thoughtful preparation. Think - less is more.
My recipes focus on:
- Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor
- Focus on technique rather than complexity
- Seasonal and local whenever possible
- Flexible enough for real life and busy schedules
- Allergen-friendly options (always peanut-free)
Many of my recipes are free from gluten, dairy, soy, and refined sugar, but I don't believe in rigid labels or strict rules. My approach to food is flexible - adapted to your taste, your schedule, and your dietary needs.
A Little About Me
My love for food and cooking began early. When my family immigrated from Ukraine to the United States when I was 9, I quickly learned to navigate the kitchen on my own. With parents who worked tirelessly to build a new life, I taught myself to cook by browsing through cookbooks, clipping recipes from magazines, trying to recreate grandma’s traditional Eastern European dishes, and later watching Food Network shows. There were plenty of kitchen disasters, but each one taught me something valuable.
Two life events further transformed my relationship with food:
- In my early twenties, I was diagnosed with ulcerative proctitis, which challenged me to explore the healing power of whole foods and rethink traditional medicine.
- Years later, my child was diagnosed with a severe peanut allergy and other tree nut allergies, turning our kitchen into a safe space where allergen-free meals became our normal.
These experiences shaped my cooking philosophy: food should be approachable, easy, and delicious—without complexity or compromise.
Why Minty Kitchen?
The name “Minty Kitchen” reflects the fresh, vibrant, and healthy approach I take to cooking. Fresh herbs are a staple in my recipes—they’re nature’s flavor enhancers and a nice finishing touch to any dish. Plus, green also happens to be my favorite color! - representing growth, freshness, and new beginnings.
Fun Facts About Me
- I’ve had a few career twists and turns, including working as an actuary and running an e-commerce business for over a decade, but food has always been my true passion.
- We added a sweet Airedale Terrier named Hugo to our family 2 years ago; he loves to help during photo shoots.
- I'm a systems and organization nerd. Whether streamlining workflows or organizing my spice drawer and pantry, I love creating order out of chaos. Notion is my jam—if you're into something like that, check it out.
- I love anything that challenges the mind (blame it on my Gemini Mercury energy)— detective novels, thrillers, Scrabble, Wordle, puzzles, and brain teasers.
- Traveling and experiencing new cuisines and cultures is one of my greatest inspirations for creating recipes.
- I'm passionate about home design and all things aesthetic (even food plating). Beautiful spaces and delicious food both feed the soul.
- I'm an amateur astrology enthusiast (Sun☀️: Gemini, Moon 🌙: Sagittarius, Rising ⬆️: Gemini)
My Promise to You
Whether you're managing health challenges, autoimmune disease, navigating food allergies, or simply wanting to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor, I'm here to show you that delicious, nourishing food is within everyone's reach.
Together, we can make "What's for dinner?" the least stressful question of your day.
Connect with Me
Thanks for taking the time to get to know me and my story. I'm thrilled you're here and would love to connect. Your journey in the kitchen matters to me, and I can't wait to see what delicious creations we'll make together!
- Drop me a line or say hello on Instagram @mintykitchen
- Get free recipes delivered directly to your inbox by subscribing to my newsletter.
- Follow along for daily inspiration and kitchen tips on social.
- Share your own cooking adventures by tagging #mintykitchen on social media.
XOXO,
Alla