My Story
Growing up in a Vietnamese household, food was how we showed love—big bowls of pho, sticky rice for celebrations, fresh herbs picked from the garden. But in my twenties, my relationship with food shifted. I started struggling with fatigue, skin issues, and a general sense of imbalance. Doctors gave me vague answers, so I turned to my plate for clarity.
I slowly transitioned to a plant-based and gluten-free lifestyle, not out of trend, but out of necessity and deep curiosity. I started experimenting with tofu marinades, grain-free noodles, and veggie-packed broths that still carried the comfort of my childhood dishes. Somewhere between a turmeric tahini dressing and a perfectly crisp chickpea fritter, I found my joy again.
That journey became more than a personal shift—it became my mission. Food wasn’t just about fuel anymore—it became my form of mindfulness, creativity, and healing.
The Turning Point
It was a rainy Portland afternoon (aren’t they all?) when I found myself in the kitchen, crying over a batch of failed almond flour pancakes. I had been trying to “healthify” everything, and nothing tasted right. I felt disconnected—from my culture, my body, my food. I sat on the floor, defeated, until my roommate came in, handed me a cup of matcha, and said, “Maybe you need to just cook what makes you feel good.”
That moment broke something open. I stopped trying to mimic old recipes with a million substitutions. Instead, I started creating meals that fit my new lifestyle without apology. I embraced the colors, the textures, the freshness of plants—and began sharing recipes that honored both my roots and my new rhythm.
That’s when @claracooksplantlove was born—and it’s grown into a community I cherish deeply.
What I Learned the Hard Way
At first, I treated “healthy eating” like a checklist—cut this out, swap that, track everything. But that only led to stress and disconnection. I forgot to actually enjoy my food. I also faced the subtle judgment that sometimes comes with being gluten-free and plant-based—people assuming I was restrictive or “too much.”
I had to unlearn diet culture and relearn nourishment. I made peace with imperfection and stopped trying to fit into any one label. The hardest part? Trusting that slowing down with food was just as valuable as speeding up results.
My Approach Now
Now, my kitchen is a space of calm curiosity. I focus on colorful, plant-forward meals that are naturally gluten-free and built for everyday wellness. My goal isn’t to impress, it’s to inspire. I lean into simple ingredients, gentle prep, and recipes that encourage presence—from mindful chopping to savoring each bite.
I teach others how to approach food not as a performance, but as a practice. My dishes range from creamy lentil stews and rainbow sushi bowls to coconut-date bliss bites—all designed to be as nourishing as they are beautiful.
What I Believe
- Food is a daily opportunity for self-kindness
- Plants are powerful—nutritionally and energetically
- Gluten-free doesn’t mean joy-free
- Eating well should feel good, not punishing
- The way you eat is just as important as what you eat
How I Can Help You
If you’re seeking a more peaceful, plant-rich way of eating, I’m here to guide you. At tastysavvy.com/, you’ll find approachable plant-based and gluten-free recipes that don’t require perfection—just presence.
Whether you’re transitioning to plant-based eating or simply want to add more greens to your day, I offer tips for mindful grocery shopping, simple batch cooking, and even how to infuse your kitchen with intention. Follow in Pinterest www.pinterest.com/ClaraNguyentasty for soothing recipe videos, ingredient spotlights, and gentle reminders that food can be both grounding and joyful.
A Little More About Me
I live in Portland with my two rescue cats, Basil and Nori. When I’m not in the kitchen, you’ll find me browsing local farmers markets, attending sound baths, or watercoloring in my journal. I believe in small rituals—morning matcha, mid-day stretching, evening journaling—and I pour that same care into every meal I make.
I’m currently learning how to grow my own herbs and dreaming of one day hosting plant-based retreats in the woods.
Let’s Connect
I’d love to connect with you—whether you’re curious about mindful eating, need a pantry reset, or just want a really good tofu recipe. My inbox is open, and I read every message.
Come find your calm at tastysavvy.com/clara or say hi on Instagram. Let’s create beauty in the everyday, one plant-powered bite at a time.
Get In Touch
📍 www.tastysavvy.com/
📧 [email protected]
📱 Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/ClaraNguyentasty