Photo credit: Malka Ahmed

Fridge Voyeur is a virtual visit into the chill zone of the Spoon Crew — our team, our friends, and some of your favorite wellness gurus. We may eat a lot of plants, but you better believe there’s a whole lot of variety, and a bit of naughty, going on behind closed doors. We know you want a peek ;).

This week, we’re peeking into the fridge of health and lifestyle coach, and former professional ballet dancer, Jess Spinner.

Splendid Spoon: Hey Jess! Tell us a bit about yourself.
Jess Spinner: Hi! My journey to balance was a long and challenging one. I went down a path of borderline disordered eating as a dancer, and it took me a long time to work my way out of that. This struggle eventually led me to my current work as a health and lifestyle coach for dancers.

I also teach Xtend Barre, which is a killer workout for dancers and non-dancers alike! It’s one of the only barre workouts with legitimate dance influences. Ever since I started instructing, I’ve been hooked.

Photo credit: Danielle Faretra.

SS: What are the 5 staples you can’t live without?
JS:

  1. Kale. It’s my favorite green. I love it raw (massaged with EVOO) and cooked (sauteed in some coconut oil).
  2. Almond Milk. Unsweetened vanilla is my fav. I drink it straight, use it in coffee, and add it to smoothies.
  3. Nut Butter (whether it’s peanut butter, almond butter or sunflower seed butter). I always have at least one (if not all) on hand.
  4. Tahini. It’s my go-to healthy fat for sauces and dressings.
  5. Water. Is that too boring? I’m an obsessive water drinker and always have plain, room temperature water with me. I pee a lot!

SS: What’s the weirdest thing in your fridge?
JS: It’s so funny how nothing in there seems weird to me anymore. It’s probably pickled ginger or kimchi — I’m obsessed with fermented foods.

SS: What’s your fave sweet and what’s your fave savory?
JS: My favorite sweet is dark chocolate. I eat a couple of squares every day. Favorite savory would be anything with potatoes! They’re comforting and satisfying.

SS: If you were one thing in your fridge, what would it be?
JS: Kale. It’s the one thing I’m super diligent about never running out of. As long as I have kale and my pantry staples, I can make a meal.

Photo credit: Danielle Faretra.

SS: What food do you turn to when you want something comforting or nostalgic? Although we eat to keep our bodies strong and healthy, food also connects us to our past, to friends, and to different times in our lives.
JS: Pasta — usually in the form of vegan lasagna. It takes more effort and time than most meals I make, but it feels so grounding.