Meet Marissa

Marissa Stevens

Marissa Stevens is the founder, recipe developer, and writer behind Pinch and Swirl. For over 15 years, she has dedicated this blog to a simple belief: the best food happens at home. Her specialty is creating approachable recipes for adventurous home cooks, translating global flavors into dishes you can confidently make with ingredients from your local market. Her mission is to create well-tested, mouthwatering recipes that help home cooks feel confident and inspired in the kitchen, because she knows that cooking is about more than just food—it’s about connection.

As a trusted culinary expert, Marissa’s work and practical advice are regularly featured in the world’s most respected food and lifestyle publications.

As Seen In

In the Press

My Food Philosophy

My love for food started early. I still remember helping my grandmother can peaches from her backyard tree when I was 5 years old. She sliced a wide X through the bottom of a peach, lowered it into boiling water for a few seconds, then plunged it into a bowl of ice water. My job was to slip the skin off in one piece like a tiny sweater.

As we worked together, I learned that food is more than just sustenance; it’s a way to create moments of joy and connection.

From that day to this, I’ve had an insatiable appetite for cooking and learning about food. That journey has taken me from Northern California to Oregon, and on culinary explorations across the globe with my husband, Keith. Our travels to places like France, Italy, Spain, and Mexico are about learning the heart of authentic dishes, so we can share that inspiration in approachable recipes that always lead back to one place: your kitchen.

Get to Know Me

  • What’s your go-to weeknight dinner? It has to be Lemon Garlic Pasta. It comes together in 20 minutes flat, but tastes like something from a great little Italian cafe.  
  • What’s one ingredient you think every home cook should try? Pork belly! It seems intimidating, but it’s incredibly versatile and easier to cook than you think. You can make everything from tacos to ramen. (Here are all of my Pork Belly Recipes)
  • What’s your most important safety tip for home cooks? Respect your blender when working with hot liquids. Steam and pressure build up fast, so don’t overfill it, and cover the top with a clean dish towel instead of the lid that’s apt to blow off. It’s a tip I shared with Bon Appétit because it’s so important.
  • What’s your secret to searing proteins like steak or pork chops perfectly? A cast-iron skillet. I haven’t found anything else that creates the same incredible crust on proteins while keeping the inside juicy and tender.

Follow Along on Social

Connecting with you is truly the best part of what I do. Your questions, your stories, and your successes in the kitchen are what make this community so special. Here are the best ways to stay in touch:

  • Follow on Social Media: You can find me on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest where I share new recipes and videos, behind-the-scenes moments, and more.
  • Send Me a Note: Have a question or just want to say hello? The best way to reach me directly is through my Contact page.

Whichever way you choose, I look forward to connecting with you!

With love from my kitchen to yours,

The word "Marissa" written in a black, cursive, handwritten-style font on a transparent background.