Nicole Putzel is a classically trained chef, cookbook author, recipe developer and private cooking instructor in the North Shore of Chicago.

After receiving an honors degree from the Culinary Arts School of the Illinois Institute of Art, she dedicated herself to inspiring others to prepare and enjoy delicious, healthy meals. Since 2009, Nicole has been a cooking instructor for aspiring chefs of all ages. In addition to leading private classes, she teaches cooking and nutritional skills to children and teens through a variety of after-school programs.  She has dedicated her time and talents to work with Chicago-area schools implementing healthy, organic school-lunch programs.   Working with adults with IDD (Intellectual and Developmental Differences) through social inclusion programs in the kitchen is one of her passions as a chef.

Most importantly, Nicole is a wife and a mother who understands the value of eating and preparing healthy, well-balanced meals in her own kitchen. She considers a dinner table filled with fresh, flavorful dishes surrounded by her family and friends the best part of her day.

As a trained chef, a teacher and a mother, Nicole has seen how new foods and flavors can be exciting to kids and  adults alike. Her goal is to bring that edible excitement to your table.

You can find Nicole on Instagram @putzelktichen