What inspires your recipes?

Creativity, a Rumbling Stomach, 7:30 Dinner Family time... whatever it is and whatever your expertise is, a meal is formed. Some follow a recipe, some read directions from the back of a box... and some are simply inspired. To some it is a chore, but to others it is an outlet... something that takes our  mind off the everyday stresses of life. Salt, Pepper and Basil become the Prozac to our mind, body... and stomach.

I loves Stef's Asparagus Gnocchi. Her father, a well-known architect, develops the best recipes off the  cuff... deciding what to make once he becomes inspired at the grocery store. So, I began to think... What inspires your dishes? A recipe? Some delectable ingredients? Fresh produce? Appetizing Poultry?

For me, I wish I was as food-creative as the Patel's. But in the meantime, I am inspired by recipes that I come across online or in foodie mags. I am currently inspired by Stef's Strawberry Cheesecake and have a concoction chilling in the fridge. =)

Tell us....