Happy Basil & Barbells Clients

I have been working with Donna, in the gym in my building, for 4 months now. I am stronger, more toned and have more energy. She's amazing! - Cynthia, New York City

Mouthwatering Morsels Cooking Demonstration; 7/10/10

Donna made extremely healthy, delicious snacks that were so easy yet presentable. I will definately be preparing these recipes for guests. - Jamie, Financial Services, New York

I've been looking for some new easy recipes, so this demonstration was great! Everything tasted wonderful and was quick and easy to prepare.- Caroline, Design Animator, New York

You've given me the confidence to try these simple but extremely delicious recipes.- Chrys, Creative Director, New York

When I first spoke with Donna I wasn't feeling too good about myself. I was overweight and always tired and irritable. She prepared my meals and exercised with me. From her meal preparation I learned about portion control and now, when I eat out, I know what I really should be eating. Four months later, I've lost 21 pounds, have energy, exercise 4-5 times per week and I feel great! - Adam, Rutherford, New Jersey

I was diagnosed with gestational diabetes in the first trimester of my pregnancy. Donna taught me how to eat properly and prepare healthy meals. I was able to reduce the amount of insulin I was taking and now we have a healthy baby girl!- Amy, Short Hills, New Jersey

When I first came to Donna I was told I was pre-diabetic and must follow a particular diet. Donna made it easy for me to stick to and, now, 1 1/2 years later, I've lost weight and have my glucose levels under control.- Sharon, New York

On May 28, 2010 I had the pleasure of being invited to Vanguard High Schools' Healthy Living Class to do a cooking demonstration for high school aged kids. Here is some of the feedback:

Dear Chef Donna,
Thank you for taking the time to come to our class to show us how to make healthier food. I liked how it didn't take long to make and it was easy to do. I also liked how you showed us we can make it our own.- Miranda

Dear Chef Donna,
Thank you for teaching us some great culinary skills. I learned that it is important to cook healthy food at home because eating food outside is normally very high in calories. - Josephine

Dear Chef Donna,
Thank you for giving us the chance to experience your wonderful personality through your cooking. I liked how you explained everthing while you were cooking. - Star

Dear Chef Donna,
Thank you for giving your time to us to make delicious recipes. I love food, but not all kinds. I must admit your salad was tasty, which surprised me because I never eat salads. But, the best was the meatball sub, it made my day. I hope to be able to cook things like that. - Jiowill

I worked with Donna for 6 months and was able to reduce my cholesterol levels to the point where I no longer needed my medication. She taught me how to prepare healthy meals and about portion control. Now, 1 year later, I still feel great and I'm still not taking medication.- Elizabeth, New York

By eating Basil & Barbells freshly prepared meals Monday through Friday, I have lost over 60 pounds in 7 months! - Jessie, New Jersey

Thank you for teaching me the proper way to eat healthy and exercise. You've given me a strong foundation to improve my health - John, New York

Chef Donna prepares food exactly according to my nutritionist's guidelines (which are very strict), and to my taste. - Debbie, Montclair, New Jersey

It did not take long for me to notice a difference in the way my clothes fit and the amount of energy I had. Not only do I look better, but I feel better too. - MaryAnne, New York

Basil & Barbells allows my family to have easy, nutritious and delicious meals together regularly.- Julianna, New York

Heart Health Cooking Demonstration; 2/4/10

I am not a veggie, healthy and definately not vegan, but I must say there were several dishes that were tasty and will be added to my rotation. - Vanessa, Teacher, New York

Donna's teaching style is very approachable and not too "crunchy" for those that are not familiar with some of the ingredients she uses.- Marian, Marketing, New York

By working out with Donna twice a week I have reached my fitness goals! Thank you! - Jessica, Oradell, New Jersey

Solid nutritional plan to fuel our Iron man training. - Phillip, New York

Thanks for sharing your skills, enthusiasm and big heart. I'm inspired! - Annie, Franklin Lakes, New Jersey

Hi Donna, Can't thank you enough for all you did to help make Sheri's birthday special. I think I speak for everyone in saying that we had a fabulous time! The food was just delicious and we all added a few tricks to our repertoires! You are a delightful person and very gifted in what you do. We wish you every success and happiness in the future! Hopefully our paths will cross again! Many thanks again! - Barbara, Randolph, NJ

The ladies had such a good time on Saturday, that by 7:30 PM I was trying to figure out how to politely end the party and get everyone to leave. We loved the party, the cooking lesson and especially the food. Many of them confessed that they were initially dreading the idea of spending the day at a baby shower, but they had such a good time cooking and eating and spending time with each other, that they would gladly do it again! Your "program" brought everyone together. And you are so efficient and such a delight. Thank you for doing a great job. You are top notch!- Jo Ann, New York

We LOVED everything that we prepared at our cooking lesson! From the fancy appetizer to the exotic entree to the delicious chocolate dessert. We are all inspired! - Michelle, Saddle River, New Jersey

Season's Eating Cooking Demonstration; 12/17/09

Question: What did you like best about this event?
Answer: Donna!- Bruce, Rabbi, NYC

I liked the simplicity, easy to prepare, tasty food - Carol, NYC

After one of Donna's cooking demonstrations people will think you're a chef. - Tatiana, Brooklyn, NY

I'm still on cloud 9! I've never been more inspired to begin my cooking adventures! You made me feel comfortable throughout my learning experience. - Jacqueline, Morristown, New Jersey

The food has been so good it has never felt like a "chore" to eat well. - Alan, Wood-Ridge, New Jersey

I always know I am eating very healthy with fresh food and I always know it will be delicious.- Sarah, New York

In the year since I started training with Donna, I have noticed that I am much stronger and that I can work out for longer than in the past. - Rebecca, New York