Rachael Ray

Rachael Domenica Ray (August 25, 1968 - present) is a celebrity chef on Food Network. Her family originated from Sicily, Italy, and she grew up in New York. She is known for being a quick-fix chef sharing her cooking speed talent with fans across the world.

Culinary career
Ray started out as the fresh foods department manager at Macy's Marketplace. She helped to open Agata & Valentina, a gourmet marketplace in New York, where she was the store manager and buyer. She started 30 Minute Meal Classes at the store that immediately became a hit. A Food Network executive heard her on the radio, and her first show, 30 Minute Meals, premiered November 17, 2001 at 11:30am.

30 Minute Meals
Whether seen through her cooking class, TV show, or cookbook, Rachael Ray's 30 Minute Meals all have something in common: convenience. These recipes don't involve fancy equipment or exotic ingredients, and they are easy to make in little time.

Cookbooks
With a variety of cookbooks, Ray's famous recipes are enjoyed by all. She has published:
 * 30 minute meals
 * Comfort Foods
 * Veggie Meals
 * 30 Minute Meals 2
 * Rachael Ray 2-4-6-8: Cooking for Couples or Crowds, and more!