Meet Chef Z | Simplot Foods

Michael Zeller "Chef Z"

Corporate Executive Chef, Simplot—Western Zone

Chef Z - simplot

Chef Z

  • Brings diverse foodservice experience, including positions as Corporate Executive Chef, R&D, at Johnsonville Sausage, Grecian Delight Foods, and Real Urban BBQ of Chicago
  • Responsible for new product development from concept through commercialization and brand enhancement in retail CPG and foodservice channels
  • Former restaurant owner and head chef
  • Former Territory Manager for Kraft Foodservice
  • Certification, American Baking Institute, 2010
  • U.S. Potato Industry Chef's Council Board Member
  • Member of The RCA for the past 23 years “Research Chefs Association”
  • Member of the ACF “American Culinary Federation”

 

Chef Z's Favorite Recipes

Avocado Truffles
Avocado Truffles

Balance health and indulgence with dark chocolate truffles made with creamy Simplot Harvest Fresh™ Avocado Pulp.

Peanut Butter Fries
Peanut Butter Fries

Komodo Tomato Turkey Burgers
Komodo Tomato Turkey Burgers

A beautiful and clever twist to traditional sliders featuring heirloom Komodo Tomatoes and Harvest Fresh Western Guacamole. A stunning appetizer or delicious dinner.

Spicy Shrimp Poutine with Sweet Chili Sauce
Spicy Shrimp Poutine with Sweet Chili Sauce

While the traditional Canadian gravy and cheese curd poutine trend is growing, many chefs are putting an American-style spin on poutine by adding alternative proteins and ethnic sauces. Simplot Chef Michael Zeller freshened up this version by adding gulf shrimp, sweet chili sauce and pepper jack cheese to our Select Recipe® fries.

Elote Street Corn
Elote Street Corn

All the delicious flavors of Mexican street fare in one side dish. This one is a perfect side for enchiladas, tacos, or paired with a piece of grilled fish or chicken.

Avocado and Coconut Cold Foam Coffee
Avocado and Coconut Cold Foam Coffee

Rich plant-based ingredients like avocado take can take menu items beyond healthy into the indulgent experience diners crave. This specialty coffee incorporates the always popular espresso with on-trend, plant-based ingredients.

Churro Fries Recipe
Churro Fries

The familiar flavors of a churro treat—a little cinnamony-sweet, crispy on the outside, perfectly tender on the inside, and completely delicious with caramel and chocolate sauce for dippin'.

Avocado Martini Recipe
Avocado Martini

Bring the ever-popular avocado to your cocktail menu with this interesting take on the classic martini.

Gruyere Ancient Grains and Kale Egg Bites Recipe
Gruyere, Ancient Grain and Kale Egg Bites

The delicious flavor and texture of Ancient Grains and Kale combined with creamy Gruyere cheese and soft-cooked egg. These bites are an excellent addition on your breakfast to-go menu or on added to your in-house brunch menu.

Angry Edamame
Angry Edamame

A little spicy, a little sweet, and packed with flavor. No one is going to be "mad" about seeing this on the menu.

The Latest Trends, Delivered

Sign up for the Trend Feast digital newsletter, and we’ll send you our seasonal trend guide!

Trend Feast Email Newsletter

More Inspiration

With Chef Z