Princess Diana’s Chef Reveals Her Overwhelming Love for Salmon

Former chef to Princess Diana, Darren McGrady, recently revealed that the late Princess of Wales had a complicated relationship with one of her favorite dishes—salmon. Despite her preference for healthy eating, Diana grew tired of the fish due to its frequent appearance on her plate. McGrady shared these insights during a YouTube video, detailing how her love for salmon led to an overwhelming repetition that ultimately prompted her to request a change.

Diana’s meals were often dictated by her public engagements. Charities and hosts frequently called Kensington Palace to inquire about her favorite foods, ensuring that the menus catered to her preferences. McGrady recounted, “If she was going out for lunch, the charities would call the palace and say, ‘What does the Princess like? What are her favourite foods?'” His response, which included salmon, would soon lead to her exasperation.

As the chef noted, Diana eventually reached her limit. “I’m starving, please tell me it’s not salmon. What is it with salmon and you chefs? Everywhere I go these days, everyone’s serving salmon,” she reportedly said. Acknowledging his misjudgment, McGrady adjusted the menu to offer more variety, even joking that he was responsible for her poultry overload.

Diana’s commitment to healthy eating remained strong. Salmon, rich in omega-3 fatty acids and high in protein, is still celebrated today as a superfood. McGrady highlighted how her dietary choices impacted his culinary style, especially after transitioning from Queen Elizabeth II‘s kitchens, where heavier dishes were the norm. “She was into healthy eating, so we never had beef on the menu unless the boys were home. She never ate pork,” he explained.

The chef recalled Diana’s vibrant attitude towards food and fitness, saying, “She would say, ‘You take care of all the fats and I’ll take care of all the carbs at the gym.'” Her approach to a balanced diet exemplified her dedication to health, while still enjoying culinary delights.

In reflecting on Diana’s legacy, Patrick Jephson, her former private secretary, remarked on the life lessons she imparted to her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry. He noted that by studying her life, they would find both profound examples and essential warnings to guide them. Royal biographer Andrew Morton echoed this sentiment, suggesting that Diana would have played a mediating role between her sons during their current rift. “Diana always used to say she had two boys for a reason—the younger would be there to support the older in the lonely task as future King,” he stated.

Through these revelations, the enduring influence of Princess Diana continues to resonate, not only in her dietary choices but also in the values she instilled in her family. Her legacy remains a topic of interest and reflection, showcasing the complexities of her life as a royal figure and a devoted mother.