Hi, I’m Ivana—and I’m so glad you’re here at Delicious Hand, my personal corner of the internet where I share heartfelt, flavor-packed recipes straight from my kitchen in New York City.
My story starts in Naples, Italy, where I was born into a family that didn’t just cook—they celebrated food. Meals weren’t rushed; they were slow, shared, and filled with laughter. The kitchen was always warm, not just from the stove but from the people gathered around it.
But the heart of it all was my mother. She wasn’t a trained chef, but to me, she was a magician. She could take the most ordinary ingredients and make something unforgettable. I’d often sit beside her, flour-dusted and wide-eyed, watching her every move. She’d smile, ruffle my hair, and say, “Ivana, you have a delicious hand.” It was her way of telling me I had a gift—not just for cooking, but for cooking with love.
That phrase stuck with me. Over the years, “delicious hand” became more than just a compliment—it became a philosophy. One that honors intuition over perfection, joy over performance, and heart over rules. It’s about making food that tells your story and makes people feel something.
After moving to New York more than a decade ago with a head full of recipes and a suitcase full of knives, I found new inspiration in the city’s energy. I worked in restaurants, taught classes, ran pop-ups, and even catered weddings. But no matter how far I traveled or how big the kitchen, I always returned to that same feeling: that food made with love—by hand—is what truly nourishes us.
And so, Delicious Hand was born. This blog is a celebration of approachable, soulful cooking. It’s for seasoned chefs looking for fresh ideas, beginners who want a little guidance, and everyone in between. Here, you’ll find comforting recipes, helpful kitchen tips, and personal stories that I hope bring you closer to the joy of cooking.
Whether you’re here to master the perfect sauce or just to try something new, I hope Delicious Hand feels like an invitation—a cozy place where you’re always welcome to pull up a chair, grab a spoon, and make something beautiful.
If you ever have a question, feedback, or just want to say hello, feel free to contact me through the Contact page. I’m here to assist you!
From my kitchen to yours,
With all my heart,
Ivana ❤️