About Me

Learn a bit about the cook:

Hello! I’m Erica Lea. I’m a mom of three living in northern Minnesota (AKA The Frozen North).

Growing up, I got used to cooking for seven people (Dad, Mom, three sisters, one brother, and myself).

My Dad was born right here in northern Minnesota. From him I get my love of different, interesting flavors and the willingness to try something new.

My mom’s southern born: Kansas City, Missouri. From her I have learned how to cook simple, comforting food without using a recipe.

What you'll find on Buttered Side Up:

Here on Buttered Side Up I share simple, from-scratch recipes your whole family will love. My main focus is recipes with a healthy touch. You’ll find that I like to substitute organic, unrefined ingredients quite often. But you won’t find that I skimp on good, natural fat. Butter > margarine.

I tend to enjoy desserts that aren't overly sweet, so you'll see that reflected in my recipes. They aren't as sweet as typical American desserts.

To me, quality not only means a dish that’s delicious, but one that is nourishing as well. It is my belief that irresistibly scrumptious and healthy are not mutually exclusive. I also don't believe that there's anything wrong with indulging in less-than-ideal treats. I just honestly prefer homemade most of the time. And I try to keep things natural when I can!

The Photography on Buttered Side Up:

In my opinion, a good photo is just about as important as a good recipe. I like to see what the finished product will look like before I put my time and effort into preparing a dish. I hope to give you that chance with my recipes!

The camera I use is the wonderful Nikon D7000. I use a 50mm Prime Lens, and also a 28mm prime. When shooting in low light, I try to use a tripod. I recently upgraded to a tripod with top-down capabilities.

Purchase and request prints here.

You may use my photos on your blog or website as long as you provide clear credit and link back to the post where the photo first appeared or to my blog. You may not alter my images in any way without prior permission. Commercial use is prohibited. All unauthorized reproduction of my photos is prohibited.

Comment Policy:

Your comments are welcome - I love hearing from my readers. Please note that all crude, profane, or otherwise offensive comments will be edited or deleted according to my standards. And I hate spam. Spam will automatically be deleted when I find it.

Where else you can find me:

I was a contributor to The Pioneer Woman's Blog for 5 years, as well as a contributor to her Tasty Kitchen blog for 5 years.

In the past I have contributed to Good Life Eats.

As Seen In
The Kitchn
VoyageMinnesota Magazine
Posie Gets Cozy
BuzzFeed
Better Homes and Gardens
Boston Magazine
Her Campus
Brit + Co.
Skona Hem

NOTE: Some links are affiliate. All opinions are my own. If you click on a link and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission. This has zero impact on the price you pay,  and it helps to keep Buttered Side Up running. Thank you so much!

xoxo
Erica