Frequently Asked Questions

How many meals do you cook at one time?
A typical service is 20 meals: 5 entrees of 4 servings each, plus some side dishes. I am flexible to suit your needs.

How do you know what kinds of food I like?
The first thing you do is fill out a food questionnaire for me. Using that, I create a customized menu which I then e-mail to you for your approval.

Do you offer organic food?
Yes. For an organic service I purchase organic vegetables and as many other organic items as are available.

I have favorite recipes I want you to make. Can you do that?
Yes. Just be aware that not every dish will be able to be frozen, although I can leave it in the fridge for you to eat within a couple of days.

Why do you have to cook at my home?
State health regulations do not allow people to cook professionally from their own homes for health reasons. Erica's Table is a personal service; clients look forward to smelling all the wonderful food cooking when I come to their kitchens.

How long does the 20-meal service last?
That depends on how many people and how often they're eating the meals. Typically, a 20-meal service will last 2-3 weeks for a couple that eats the meals 4-5 times a week. If you are single, 20 meals might last you a month if you eat out some nights. You can call or e-mail me a week ahead of time to schedule another cooking day when you are ready for more meals.

Can you accommodate special dietary needs?
Absolutely! I have clients who require low fat, no sugar, no yeast, low salt and raw food. I provide a personal service catered to your needs.

Do you leave my kitchen clean?
Yes. I make sure to disinfect the counters and stove top, scour the sink, take out the trash and wash all the dishes.

Do I have to be home when you cook?
No, The only requirement is that I need to be able to get in. Some clients leave a key in a secret place, some give me a copy of their house key, some are home to let me in. It's whatever you are comfortable with.

I want fresh meals, not frozen. Can you do that?
I am very flexible. I have weekly clients I cook for who want the fridge loaded with fresh meals to eat for the week.

Can any food be frozen?
No. There are some foods that do not freeze well. Fresh salads, fruit, fried foods, fish and meat without sauces are a few foods that do not freeze well.

What do you freeze the food in?
I use new Ziploc and Gladware containers that can be reused several times. I put most of the side dishes in freezer bags. They are all dated and clearly labeled.

What do you need from me on your cooking day?
I need a cleared counter space, an empty sink, some room in the fridge, and as much room in the freezer as possible. I also need to know about any pets you may have.

How do I pay you?
A personal check in the full amount made out to Erica's Table left on the counter on the day of service or cash.

If I try your service once, am I obligated to have you cook again?
Absolutely not. I would never force someone to eat my food! You can play it by ear and see how the service works for you. If there is anything you don't like about it, you can tell me so we can solve the problem together.