McCormick Gourmet – Cook It Forward Videos

I had an amazing opportunity earlier this year to take part in a video series being filmed to introduce a new product line from McCormick Gourmet. Some of you may remember me sharing this experience but if you missed it you can read my behind the scenes post here. The videos were  recently released so, as promised, I’m sharing them with you. The lovlieness pictured above is the Creamy Parmesan & Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Penne, one of the 6 new Recipe Mixes from McCormick Gourmet, and the recipe featured in the first video link below.

Being on camera is a very interesting experience that never in my life did I expect to have. There was no script, so what you see are just very natural, organic conversations that took place as the cameras rolled. That being said, try being natural and organic with a couple of cameras in your face. Yeah, it’s challenging and I give huge props to anyone who does it effortlessly. As challenging as it was, it was also one of the most incredible and rewarding experiences I have ever had.

Through every new experience we gain valuable knowledge. Here are some of the things I learned from being in front of the camera.

1. Natural light, while fantastic for food photography, doesn’t do a heck of a lot for food bloggers. More specifically, this food blogger.

2. Cut your hair.

3. Next time someone asks if you’d like to have hair and makeup people available the only suitable answer is YEEESSSS!!!!!

4. Smile more…and buy a new outfit.

5. Cut your hair, I mean really.

There are a lot of more significant, less vanity based lessons that I learned as well that I will carry with me through life. Honest.

If you ever get the opportunity to do something like this but it scares you – do it! Push the envelope, venture outside your comfort zone, do something you never imagined you would do. I do have my limits, however. When I asked Boy #3 what he wanted to do for his upcoming birthday, he said he wanted the whole family to go skydiving.

Uh…no. I don’t think so.

There were 3 episodes in all. Click on the picture above to view the episode starring yours truly whipping up the truly scrumptious Creamy Parmesan & Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Penne with my fellow Allrecipes Brand Ambassador and friend, Nelly, aka Latina Cook.

In this next episode, Jennifer and I put together the  rustic, homestyle, Herbes De Provence Roasted Chicken & Potatoes. A wholesome and totally delicious family meal. Stop by and say hello to Miss Jennifer at House of Frolic and Mirth. I know you’ll love her as much as I do.

Watch Jennifer and Lillian put together the Sweet Basil & Oregano Bruschetta Chicken. Another winner.

Thanks again to everyone at Allrecipes, to our fantastic videographers David Albright and Erik Dinnell (check out David’s perspective on the experience here), and to McCormick Gourmet for taking a chance on 4 ladies from across the country who share a common passion for cooking.

Oh, and I cut my hair.