Meet Donna

                     Plant-Based Cooking Instructor
                            Certified Health Coach 

Welcome! I'm Donna, founder of The Plated Garden. As a Certified Health Coach and Plant-Based Cooking Instructor, my passion is helping people discover that eating well can be simple, beautiful, and delicious. 

My classes are taught in a relaxed, demonstration-style format inspired by the French concept of mise en place, where every ingredient is thoughtfully prepared and beautifully organized before we begin. Rather than hands-on cooking, you'll enjoy step-by-step instruction, learn practical cooking techniques, discover the health benefits of whole foods, and gain the confidence to recreate each recipe in your own kitchen.

Every class features a thoughtfully prepared four-course seasonal menu that is 100% vegan and naturally gluten-free. Every dish is prepared from scratch using fresh, whole-food ingredients-never boxed mixes or Frozen convenience foods.

Each menu celebrates the changing seasons of California's Central Coast and is thoughtfully created using fresh ingredients sourced from our local farms whenever possible. I believe the finest meals begin with

ingredients that are in season, full of flavor, and grown with care. Supporting our local farmers allows us to celebrate the harvest of each season while bringing the freshest produce to your table.

After each demonstration, we'll gather around the table to enjoy a beautifully prepared seasonal meal together, share conversation, and answer questions in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. 

At The Plated Garden, I believe healthy cooking should never feel restrictive. It should be elegant, approachable, nourishing, and joyful. My hope is that every guest leaves inspired-not only by the meal we've shared, but with the confidence to bring fresh, seasonal, plant-based cooking into their own home, one delicious recipe at a time. 

         I look forward to welcoming you to my table.