1. Add a little zest. Once a formula calls for a "zest" of a citrus fruit, it's referring to the colorful outer part of the skin, not the inner white part, which is acknowledged as the pith. The zest contains all of the aromatic citrus oils and provides a hint of citrus tang to the recipe. A simple know how of obtaining a fine zest is by rubbing the fruit against the smallest holes of a cheese grater.

2. Don't be afraid to experiment. Nice cooks are ne er afraid to deviate from a formula and add their own flair. Whenever you do a substitution or addition be sure to do a note on the formula so you remember next time whether you likeable the change or not