The chef at San Francisco’s Absinthe Brasserie and Bar reveals her favorite olive oil, what she is passionate about in the kitchen and the best thing she’s ever created with only five ingredients.

FS: What food do you think someone must try in his or her lifetime?
JL: Indian for sure, preferably Southern Indian. There is nothing like a dosa stuffed with curried potatoes and a steaming bowl of sambar to dip it in.

FS:  What are three must-have ingredients for someone to stock in their kitchen?
JL: Kosher salt, good quality extra virgin olive oil (I like Arbequina) and hot sauce—something with habanero is preferred.

FS: What is the best thing you’ve ever cooked with only five ingredients?
JL: Pasta, toasted garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dried chilies. It’s perfect.