IN THE KITCHEN WITH ... / MIKE BIONDO, 35, ATLANTA
Chicken Enchilada Dip

Nominated by Sharon Biondo:
"When describing my son, Mike, as a child, 'world-class finicky eater' was an understatement. He would reject food items for the most obscure reasons. He has, as an adult, come full circle. One of his favorite ways to spend free time is to browse the aisles of the DeKalb Farmers Market. He'll select an item that appears interesting and search the Internet for ways to prepare this new found food. From there he improvises and creates his own recipe.
"I am absolutely amazed that he has become so adventurous, but even more impressed that he has a natural talent for putting ingredients together that produce a new, interesting and delicious dish. He frequently entertains friends, neighbors and family with ease, while his wife, Krista, provides the backup support.
"I am chagrined that as his mom, I call my once-finicky son for recipe or cooking help. Now I wonder if perhaps he preferred more interesting food choices than the ones I offered."

Parents, take heart. Miracles do happen. The kid with the messiest room in the house can turn into a neatnik. And a kid like Mike Biondo, who turned up his nose at practically everything his mother put in front of him, can transform into an accomplished, adventurous and passionate cook who loves everything about food.