Welcome!
I’m Marissa Stevens, founder of Pinch and Swirl. I’m so glad you’re here!
Pinch and Swirl is built on a simple belief: the best meals don’t come from restaurant kitchens. They come from home cooks like you who take fresh, simple ingredients and turn them into something worth sharing. My mission is to share recipes that inspire confidence in the kitchen, because cooking is about more than just food—it’s about connection.
What “Pinch and Swirl” Means
People often ask me what “Pinch and Swirl” really means. For me, it sums up everything I believe about cooking.
The “Pinch” is the simple, hands-on part of cooking. It’s that pinch of salt, that handful of fresh herbs. It’s about starting with simple, fresh ingredients and easy-to-follow steps. It’s the foundation of every great meal.
The “Swirl” is the beautiful result. It’s the final flourish of sauce on a plate, the swirl of good olive oil to finish a dish, the stir of a celebratory cocktail, or the moment you bring a gorgeous dish to the table. It’s about the joy and connection that comes from sharing something delicious you’ve made with people you love.
Together, they represent the beauty of cooking: taking the simple “Pinch” of everyday ingredients and transforming them into the elegant “Swirl” of a meal worth sharing. My goal is for every recipe to give you that confidence, whether you’re making a weeknight dinner, planning a holiday menu, or entertaining friends. I want you to create meals you can be proud of, no matter the occasion.
About Our Recipes
Every recipe you find here is designed for the adventurous home cook who wants restaurant-quality results without the intimidation. My specialty is making global flavors truly accessible, from French and Italian to Mexican and Asian.
You’ll find authentic Mexican Pork Carnitas, classic French Coq au Vin, modern Italian pastas, and even Homemade Ramen all developed with everyday ingredients available in your local market. I believe you shouldn’t need to visit a specialty store to create something spectacular.
I created Pinch and Swirl to bridge the gap between the simple meals we make every day and the impressive dishes we dream of making. It’s for when you’re ready to try something exciting, but don’t want to get lost in complicated, chef-level techniques. My goal is to give you the confidence to create gourmet food that feels easy and accessible, right in your own kitchen.
If You’re New Here
Not sure where to start? These reader-favorite recipes are the perfect introduction to the world of Pinch and Swirl.
- Carne Asada: An easy and authentic recipe that turns any occasion into a celebration.
- Pork Belly: A guide to making this versatile and impressive ingredient, from crispy roasted pork belly to tacos and ramen.
- Lemon Garlic Pasta: A fast and easy dish with bold, vibrant flavor that’s on the table in 20 minutes flat.
Ready to explore? Browse the Full Recipe Index
Meet the Founder
Pinch and Swirl is created and written by Marissa Stevens, a professional food writer, recipe developer, and photographer. With a philosophy that the best food happens at home, Marissa’s work is dedicated to helping home cooks feel confident and inspired.
You can learn more about Marissa’s professional experience and see her featured work on her Author Page.
Let’s Stay in Touch
- Comment on a Recipe: Did you try a recipe? I would be thrilled to hear how it went! Leaving a comment and a star rating is one of the best ways to share your experience with me and other readers.
- Sign Up for My Newsletter: Get my latest recipes delivered right to your inbox. It’s the easiest way to make sure you never miss a new favorite. You can sign up here.
