Clodagh McKenna, chef and food writer, runs The Village at Lyons Cookery School
Do you think you have a healthy lifestyle?
Yes, I do eat quite healthy food. Probably a lot of chefs eat quite rich food, but I do eat a balanced diet. It makes me feel good and it’s something I like to do rather than feeling pushed to do it.
How often do you exercise?
I used to run a lot and a new year’s resolution was to get back to it, so I started running Dún Laoghaire pier. Now, I’ve promised to do the Dublin City Marathon with Crumlin Children’s Hospital! I’m quite sporty – I play tennis, golf, swim and I walk for about three hours every Sunday from where I live in Monkstown out to Dalkey and back again.
Would you get your five a day?
Yes, I’d probably have that in the morning. I have a smoothie first thing, dried fruit or porridge with cinnamon in it – people forget how good spices are for you. Right now I’m having a salad of chickpeas, broccoli, carrot, red pepper – January is the month of being good! I’d have a pizza once a week from our pizza oven in the cafe.
Do you worry?
A lot less than I used to. I think Italy probably taught me that. Before I went, I’d think, “If I do that, will I offend anybody?”, but they are just so laid back, and honest as well. You know exactly where you stand with somebody – I like that approach. Of course, when you run your own business and employ people, there is always worry. If you are not worried, I suppose you should be.
What do you do to relax?
This might sound funny, but it’s cooking. I’d cook dinner at home five nights a week with my boyfriend. He’s really interested in learning how to cook – he’s a good cook now. I love testing new recipes.
What's your unhealthiest habit?
I’m terrible for the Diet Coke. I’d usually have one every day and I always feel so guilty about it, so I’m trying to cut it out.
