Emily Brubaker likes to create food that’s simple but flavor-forward. It’s a focus that put her in the role of resort executive chef at Omni La Costa Resort & Spa — and made her the winner of the first season of the NBC food competition show “Yes, Chef!” helmed by judges Martha Stewart and Jose Andres, which aired earlier this summer. That win earned her $250,000.

If you want to learn more about her (she’s a delight) and get some of the truly tasty recipes that earned her Most Valuable Chef on several episodes, check out my new story for The San Diego Union-Tribune’s Food section.