Rockette Carolyn Simpson has no problem choreographing her way around the kitchen.

"I'm a big time cook," said Simpson, who is now starring in "The Radio City Christmas Spectacular" at the Rosemont Theatre, through Dec. 7. FYI: (312) 559-1212.

Simpson said she usually cooks two to three meals a day. She finds making one's own meals is also a great "way to save money" and eat more healthfully.

Specialties include dishes with great nutritional benefits, low calories and complex carbohydrates.

Pastas, poultry, light herb sauces, fruits and vegetables frequently appear on her kitchen menu. And though she eats with health in mind, she doesn't pass up sweets, especially around the holidays.

"One of the best things about the holiday season is there are so many amazing desserts," Simpson said.

She's a fan of chocolate and Oreo cookies.

"When you're doing so many shows, it really allows you to eat whatever you want," she said. "As Rockettes, we do almost 400 kicks a show," she laughed. But, for Simpson, moderation in eating is of utmost importance.

A longtime favorite Simpson family recipe is a festive Holiday Cheese Roll.

"The first time my mom makes it is Thanksgiving Day. And she usually doesn't make it past New Year's Day."

Simpson, a native of Duluth, Ga., said when she's on tour and can't get home to enjoy the treat, her mother comes to the rescue.

"Every year when she comes to see the show, she brings a cooler packed with cheese rolls," Simpson said.

The Rockette, who grew up on great Southern fare, said if she could have anybody cook a holiday meal for her it would be her paternal grandmother, who was raised in Alabama.

"I love to watch her cook. She never measures anything," Simpson said.

When it comes to ethnic food, Simpson said Thai cuisine is one of her favorites. "I love Asian food, in general, and anything with rice."

Since she'll be performing in Rosemont on Thanksgiving, Simpson is looking forward to enjoying the big holiday meal with her fellow Rockettes.

"We always have a cast dinner. Even if we're separated from our own families for the holiday, we always have our second family," Simpson said.

What follows are a few interesting tidbits about the Rockettes as well as Simpson's recipe for the "Holiday Cheese Roll".

* This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Chicago-area production of "The Radio City Christmas Spectacular."

* The first Rockettes were known as the "Missouri Rockets," founded in 1925.

* Discounts of 30 to 50 percent are offered for kids ages 12 and younger for all Chicago shows. (Mention "Kid Discount" when ordering).

* The debut of the new Madame Alexander Rockette Doll "Candy Cane Rockette" will be from 3 to 5 p.m. Dec. 1 at FAO Schwarz at Macy's, 111 N. State St., Chicago. Rockettes will be on hand to autograph purchased dolls. FYI: (312) 551-1011.

Holiday Cheese Roll

8 ounces cream cheese

8 ounces Swiss type cheese

8 ounces sharp cheddar

1 medium to large clove of garlic

1 cup chopped pecans

Paprika

* Use food processor and grate all cheese together.

* Pour cheese into large bowl, mix with hands until cheese is blended together.

* Add 1 medium to large clove grated garlic, mix again

* Add 1 cup chopped pecans and mix again.

* Separate into three groups of cheese mixture and roll out each mixture into a log.

* Sprinkle paprika onto a sheet of wax paper and roll log in paprika until covered, including ends.

* Then wrap completed roll in plastic wrap and store in refrigerator.

* Best to eat when chilled.

* Slice each roll in about 1/4 - 1/2 inch slices and serve on Ritz crackers.

* Will save up to three weeks.