We've been following the sixth season of The Next Food Network Star closely--because, not only was most of the series shot in Los Angeles, but among the 12 finalists vying for their very own Food Network show were 3 locals, including food blogger and LAist alum Aarti Sequeira. Each week we brought you Aarti's insider's look at being a part of the show through her weekly episode recaps. Last night we watched her win the title of The Next Food Network Star, and her new series, Aarti Party, debuts next Sunday. We got the chance to talk to her the day after her win was broadcast. more ›

Occasional LAist contributor Aarti has been slaving away over a hot stove for some time now on her self-produced cooking video series, Aarti Paarti, and with spring most definitely in the air, and wonderful springtime finds like green garlic and fava beans plentiful at area farmer's markets, she's whipped up this video recipe how-to for Fava Bean Pillows with Brown Butter. This episode features a guest musical appearance by Paul Newman aka Beep Beep, of Helios Jive, who also helps sample the tasty, easy-to-make, and affordable meal based on locally-sourced seasonal produce. more ›