Celebrity Chef Gerry Garvin, simply known as G. Garvin, is one of America’s busiest culinary giants. His clients have included Former President Bill Clinton and Halle Berry. The author, philanthropist and dynamic host of the Cooking Channel hit, “Road Trip with G. Garvin,” shares five quick and simple tips for healthier cooking and eating for the whole family.

BDO: What is the number one fresh food item that should be on our grocery list that we tend to overlook?

GG: Shallots. They are a great substitute for onions and a great way to start any soup/sauce or as an addition to a salad.

BDO: You offer such a wide range of robust recipes for summer cooking. What is your favorite quick and healthy dish to whip up this season?

GG: Boneless, skinless chicken breast with sliced avocado, brown rice and broccoli rabe.

BDO: What inspired your diverse line of signature spices?

GG: I wanted to share my love for flavoring food with my friends and fans using the spices that I created.

BDO: “Road Trip with G. Garvin” is well into season 3 and continues to take viewers on an incredible culinary ride! Could you share one of your favorite dishes you have discovered this season?

GG: The Fried Kale Salad with the Crispy Pig Ears and Peppers at a place called The Purple Pig in Chicago.

BDO: Childhood obesity is major concern in our nation. You founded The One Bite Foundation to address childhood obesity as well as domestic violence, homelessness and hunger by exposing youth to the culinary arts. How can we encourage healthy eating habits in our youth?

GG: Educating kids on when and what they eat is the most important tool for leading them to try any new food source.

Read more about Chef Garvin at BlackDoctor.Org.

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(Photo: Eddy Chen/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images)