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In 2025, Diwali will fall around October 18–22 , and Los Angeles will light up with community events, temple ceremonies, and cultural festivals that honor this timeless tradition. Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most radiant celebrations of the year. Originating in India and now celebrated across the world, Diwali (or Deepavali) marks the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Homes glow with diyas (oil lamps), temples resound with chants, and families come together to share sweets, prayers, and laughter. What Diwali means The word Diwali  comes from the Sanskrit Deepavali , meaning “row of lights.” Across Hindu, Sikh, and Jain traditions, it celebrates spiritual victory, prosperity, and renewal. Many devotees perform Lakshmi Puja , praying to the goddess of wealth and fortune, and decorate their homes with rangoli  (colorful floor art), candles, and fairy lights. But Diwali is more than just a festival, it’s an invitation to pause, reflect, and begin anew. Where to celebrate Diwali in Los Angeles Los Angeles, with its diverse and thriving South Asian community, offers plenty of ways to experience Diwali, whether you want to join a traditional puja, attend a street fair, or simply enjoy the food and music. 1. BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir A must-visit for anyone seeking a traditional celebration. This stunning temple hosts a multi-day Diwali and Annakut festival  with prayers, lights, music, and an extraordinary vegetarian feast.  2. Little India  Just a short drive from downtown Los Angeles, Artesia’s Pioneer Boulevard  transforms into a glowing corridor of lights, shops, and restaurants during Diwali week. You can shop for sarees, jewelry, sweets like laddu  and barfi , and join the local street celebrations. 3. Malibu Hindu Temple Set in the hills near Calabasas, this temple offers peaceful Lakshmi and Ganesha pujas  followed by prasadam  (blessed food). It’s ideal if you’re looking for a spiritual experience away from the city noise. Remember to wear bright, traditional clothes like sarees, kurtas, or anything colorful. But also, don’t miss to bring a diya;  many temples invite guests to light their own lamps, so be sure to bring yours! Let us know where you’ll be celebrating Diwali. In the meantime Happy Diwali! From IMPASTIAMO.

October in Los Angeles means cooler evenings, golden sunsets, and one of the city’s most anticipated cultural events: Montrose Oktoberfest . This annual celebration brings the spirit of Bavaria to Southern California, offering locals and visitors the chance to experience German traditions without leaving LA. With beer gardens, live music, authentic food, and family-friendly entertainment, it’s the perfect way to welcome fall. Oktoberfest 2025 What Is Oktoberfest? The original Oktoberfest traces its roots back to Munich, Germany, in 1810, when the city celebrated the wedding of Crown Prince Ludwig with days of feasting, dancing, and beer. Over two centuries later, the tradition has grown into one of the world’s largest festivals, attracting millions of visitors each year. Today, Oktoberfest is celebrated across the globe, and Los Angeles proudly hosts its own version in Montrose, capturing the essence of Bavarian culture while adding a SoCal twist. Dates, Location, and Tickets Montrose Oktoberfest 2025  will take place on Saturday, October 4, 2025 , in the heart of the Montrose Shopping Park in Glendale. The event runs from morning until late evening, transforming Honolulu Avenue into a festive hub of music, food, and fun. Entry is typically free for children under 12 , while general admission tickets for adults range from $10–$15 at the gate . Families looking to save can purchase pre-sale tickets online  for a small discount, often around $8–$12 . A portion of the proceeds goes to local community projects, so every ticket supports a good cause. Dinner Open Air At the heart of Oktoberfest is the food and drink. Visitors can indulge in authentic German fare  such as bratwurst, schnitzel, sauerkraut, and giant Bavarian pretzels. Sweet tooths won’t be left behind, with apple strudel and German chocolate cake available from local vendors. Pair it all with a frothy pint of imported German beer or seasonal craft brews from California breweries. Beyond food, Montrose Oktoberfest features rows of local vendors selling crafts, souvenirs, and festive gear. Expect to find handmade jewelry, Oktoberfest mugs, hats, and themed merchandise , perfect for remembering your day. Entertainment and Activities Montrose Oktoberfest isn’t just about food and beer, it’s an all-day experience. Visitors can enjoy live oompah bands , traditional dance performances, and family-friendly contests. Kids will love the carnival rides and game booths, while adults can test their strength in stein-holding competitions or join in on the costume parade. For those seeking a more relaxed vibe, the beer garden offers the perfect spot to unwind with friends while enjoying live music. With activities tailored to all ages, Montrose Oktoberfest successfully combines tradition with community spirit. Tips for Visiting Arrive early : the event gets crowded by midday, and early birds snag the best seating. Bring cash : while many vendors accept cards, cash lines often move faster. Plan your ride : parking in the area is limited, so consider carpooling or using rideshare apps.

When our IMPASTIAMO team decided to gather for a teambuilding trip, we knew it had to be somewhere special. We packed our bags and from Los Angeles we crossed the ocean to Stromboli, a vulcanic island in southern Italy.   From the very first step off the ferry in Vulcano, we were greeted by the island’s signature smell of sulfur. It might surprise you at first, but soon it becomes part of the atmosphere, just like the black volcanic sand, the steaming fumaroles, and the quiet beauty that exists nowhere else in the world. Our journey then brought us to Stromboli, famously captured by Roberto Rossellini in the film Stromboli, Land of God , starring Ingrid Bergman. Here, time literally slows down. Stromboli is still a fishing village at heart. Cars are almost nonexistent, replaced by small electric golf carts that cover just a handful of routes. The real star of the island is the Volcano itself, alive and powerful, throwing sparks of lava, a constant reminder of nature’s strength (it feels like stepping into a page of German Romanticism, where beauty and danger coexist). But Stromboli is not only about its volcano. It is also about its people, and for us, that person was Angelo Mirabito. Angelo is the heart behind the well-known restaurant Il Malandrino, but more than that, he is a man whose life is deeply tied to the island. With a bright, genuine smile, he welcomed us as though we were old friends. He told us his story: how he once left Stromboli to work as a builder in Modena for over a decade, only to return after his father’s passing. Since then, he has dedicated his days to his land, his restaurant, and his people. Angelo didn’t just tell us about his life, he shared it with us. He took us to his grove of olive trees, teaching us how to pick the olives that would later be preserved in brine. It’s a simple recipe of water, salt, garlic, and chili pepper, yet in his hands it felt like part of an ancient ritual, a way of connecting to the land. Later that afternoon, Angelo, together with Bartolo and his son Antonino, invited us on his boat. We sailed out toward Strombolicchio and jumped into the deep blue water just as the sun was setting. The thrill of diving in at that golden hour is something none of us will forget. As evening fell, the day turned into something even more memorable. Angelo showed us how to fish for squid, and by nightfall we had caught enough for a meal. Still inside the boat, he cooked pasta for us with the squid we had caught and the tomatoes from his own garden. It wasn’t just dinner: it was a celebration of simplicity, of authenticity, of being present in the moment. In Stromboli, with Angelo as our guide, we learned that true richness is not found in what is grand or fast-paced, but in the small things: the taste of fresh tomatoes, the rhythm of the sea, the smile of someone who has given his life to his island. Our teambuilding trip reminded us not only of the joy of working together, but also of the value of slowing down, appreciating where you are, and remembering that life’s beauty often lies in the most ordinary moments.

Every year, when the moon is at its brightest in early autumn, millions of people across Asia and beyond come together to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival . Origins of the Mid-Autumn Festival Also known as the Moon Festival , the Mid Autumn Festival is one of the most important cultural celebrations in China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Singapore, and Malaysia , and it is increasingly marked in major cities worldwide, from London’s Chinatown to Los Angeles and New York . The festival dates back more than 3,000 years, rooted in ancient harvest rituals and legends. The most famous is the story of Chang’e, the Moon Goddess , who is believed to reside on the moon with her jade rabbit. Families honor these legends by gathering under the full moon, a symbol of reunion, prosperity, and harmony. Traditional Foods: Mooncakes  Mooncakes Food plays a central role in the Mid-Autumn Festival. The most iconic treat is the mooncake , a round pastry symbolizing completeness and unity. Traditional Cantonese mooncakes are filled with lotus seed paste and salted egg yolk, while modern versions feature chocolate, matcha, ice cream, and even savory fillings. In Vietnam, people enjoy bánh trung thu , which come in baked and sticky-rice varieties. In Malaysia and Singapore, snow skin mooncakes are popular for their soft, mochi-like texture. Seasonal fruits such as pomelos are also eaten, as they are believed to bring family luck and togetherness. Customs and Celebrations Lantern Tradition The lantern tradition  is one of the most recognizable features of the Mid-Autumn Festival. Children carry brightly colored paper lanterns shaped like animals, fish, or stars, lighting up parks and streets. In places like Hong Kong’s Victoria Park , thousands of lanterns create breathtaking displays. Families gather outdoors for moon gazing , sharing tea and pastries, and expressing gratitude for abundance. In Vietnam, lion dances entertain children, while in Taiwan, barbecue gatherings have become a modern twist on the festival. Mid-Autumn Festival: house of traditions The Mid-Autumn Festival is more than food and lanterns, it is a powerful reminder of the importance of family unity and cultural heritage. Whether you are enjoying a traditional mooncake in Hong Kong, watching lion dances in Vietnam, or visiting Chinatown in London or Los Angeles , the Mid-Autumn Festival  offers a chance to reconnect with tradition and celebrate under the full moon.

Caffè Espresso with chocolate powder Breakfast in Italy, known as "Colazione", is a simple and light event that prioritizes quality. Whether you want to learn more about the Italian Breakfast before a trip to Italy or just want to implement their culture into your everyday life, you’ve come to the right place. What are some regional breakfast specialties in Italy? Here are some regional variations in breakfast specialties in Italy: Rome: Maritozzi are sweet brioche buns that are filled with whipped cream. Naples & Amalfi Coast: Sfogliatella, a shell-shaped pastry that is filled with orange-scented ricotta, is flaky and perfectly sweet. Tuscany: Crunchy almond biscotti is a Tuscany favorite and is great to dip in coffee. Puglia: Pasticciotto is a shortcrust pastry that is filled with custard or ricotta. Served warm, this breakfast item is a great way to start your day. Sicily: Granita con brioche is a granita slushy paired with a soft brioche. A perfect balance, especially for hot days! Northern Italy (especially in the dolomites): This breakfast leans toward savory tastes, which might include porridge, cheese, yogurt, bread, and dried fruit. Here are some additional staples: Plain biscuits or simple cakes (such as ciambella) Bread with butter and jam  What is coffee culture? Coffee is an essential pairing with Italian breakfast foods, and here is what you need to know about coffee culture in Italy: Un Caffe: A quick shot of espresso to get your day started! This is the foundation of Italian coffee culture, meant to be drunk quickly standing at the bar. Cappuccino: This is a frothy breakfast favorite, typically consumed before 11 am. Latte macchiato or caffe latte: For a classic coffee and pastry combo! Note: if you only order a “latte” in Italy, you might just get a glass of milk. Another note: milk-based coffee is considered too heavy after breakfast! Caffe d’orzo: A barley-based drink that mimics coffee. Hot chocolate: A great option for kids, especially in winter! Coffee culture in Italy means that it is usually enjoyed at a bar, rather than taken to-go. Beyond breakfast, coffee is a social experience for many people: meeting with friends, splitting up the work day, or taking a quick break. Furthermore, coffee sizes are small and concentrated, focusing on simplicity rather than elaborate syrups or flavors.  Here are some regional traditions for coffee: Naples is famous for their strong espresso and paying it forward (paying in advance for someone else’s coffee!) Venice is known for historic cafes like Cafè Florian. Turin is known for "bicerin", which is a layered drink with espresso, chocolate, and cream. What should I know about breakfast etiquette and timing? Here is a summary of breakfast etiquette and timing for you: Italians eat breakfast early in the morning, typically ranging from the hours of 7-10 am. Breakfast is a light meal, and often done quickly at home or at the bar. Coffee is nearly always espresso-based. Pastries are a popular breakfast item in Italy, and savory breakfast tastes are rarer in Italy. Coffee with milk is reserved for before 11 am! We hope you enjoy this Italian tradition in its simplicity!

D iscover the top food experiences to try in South Korea, from sizzling barbecue to traditional markets, for an authentic taste of the country’s cuisine. Depending on what region you are visiting, the Korean culinary experience can look entirely different and unique. Read on to find out the best places to visit in Busan, Seoul, and beyond! Korean Barbeque A true classic—and now popularized across the world, Korean BBQ is an interactive and social dining experience. Grilling the meat at your table, you can wrap it in lettuce along with garlic, ssamjang (spicy sauce), kimchi, and other banchan (side dishes). This is a communal experience that allows for lots of lovely conversations with the people you’re with. Here are some top meats to order at Korean BBQ : Samgyeopsal (pork belly) Galbi (marinated beef ribs) Chadolbaegi (thin-sliced beef brisket) Drinks are often paired with this meal! Soju Makgeolli (rice wine) Korean beers Traditional Korean Markets Gwangjang Market (Seoul) is famous for their bindaetteok (mung bean pancakes) and mayak gimbap. Jagalchi Market (Busan) is Korea’s largest seafood market. Tongin Market (Seoul) offers lunchbox cafes where you can pay with tokens. Some notable foods to eat at Korean markets: Tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) Odeng (fish cake skewers) Hotteok (sweet pancakes) Live octopus (sannakji) Be sure to bring cash—and come hungry! Street Food Here are our top picks for Korean street food: Tteokbokki with cheese Tornado potato skewers Korean corn dogs Grilled lobster tails or jumbo shrimp You can find these large street vendors in Seoul, particularly: Myeongdong Hongdae Dondaemun Night Market Convenience stores  If you’ve read our other article on convenience stores, you already know how much we love this budget-friendly option for snacks and quick meals. To reiterate, here are some must-tries: Triangle kimbap Instant noodles (using the hot water/microwave station) Dosirak lunchboxes Fried chicken  Wine and Dine For drinking and snacks, check out Korea’s small tent bars where locals go to unwind after work or to spend time with friends. Here are some popular drinks + snacks that go with them: Soju, makgeolli Spicy stir-fried octopus, Korean fried pancakes, fish cake soup These places can be found in many places in Seoul, and definitely near any universities. Chicken + Beer Korean fried chicken is known for a reason—with its crispy texture and delicious sauces, you’re guaranteed a good time. Korean fried chicken is paired with cold beer, and can make for a perfect night in or out. Here are some popular chains for fried chicken in Korea: BHC bb.q Chicken Kyochon Half-half orders are a great option to try multiple flavors! (Plus: get to try some different spice levels for people with different spice tolerances). We hope you enjoy all these culinary experiences and make the most of your next trip to Korea!

Los Angeles in October is one of the most exciting times of the year. The city cools down just enough to enjoy outdoor festivals, spooky attractions, and cultural events, while still keeping that famous California sunshine. Whether you’re a local looking for weekend plans or visiting LA for the first time, here are 5 things to do in Los Angeles in October 2025. A Neapolitan Pizza Making Class with IMPASTIAMO Neapolitan Pizza Making Class If you love authentic Italian food, don’t miss our Neapolitan Pizza Making Class  on October 4th, 2025  from 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM PDT. This 2.5h hands-on class takes place in Inglewood, CA and is designed for food lovers of all levels. You’ll learn how to knead, stretch, and top your pizza like a true Italian, guided by Chef Peppe Miele. Even better, you’ll get to enjoy your creation fresh from the oven. Vegan options are available. Plus, enjoy a welcome drink to kick things off. Tickets are starting from $139 per person , making it a perfect activity for friends, couples, or anyone looking for a fun culinary experience.  Cinespia There’s nothing quite like a movie night at Cinespia  in Hollywood. Held at the iconic Hollywood Forever Cemetery, Cinespia transforms classic film screenings into unforgettable experiences. Guests bring blankets, picnic baskets, and friends to enjoy cult favorites and timeless movies projected on a giant outdoor screen. In October, the lineup often features Halloween classics, so it’s the perfect way to get into the spooky spirit while surrounded by LA’s creative community. From Oct. 11th until Oct. 31st, you’ll find the following projections: On Oct. 11th, 2025: The Craft On Oct. 4th, 2025: The Rocky Horror Picture Show: 55th Anniversary On Oct. 18th : Paranorman On Oct. 25th : A Nightmare on Elm Street On Oct. 31st: Scream halloween party Arrive early to grab a good spot and snap some photos against the historic Hollywood backdrop. Price tickets starts from $29.99 Knott's Scary Farm Looking for thrills? Knott’s Scary Farm in Buena Park is Southern California’s largest Halloween event. By night, the beloved Knott’s Berry Farm amusement park transforms into a haunted playground with mazes, scare zones, and terrifying live shows. Running on select nights throughout October, Knott’s Scary Farm attracts horror fans from all over the country. Whether you love haunted houses, creepy characters, or just the adrenaline of a good scare, this is the ultimate Halloween attraction near LA. This year you’ll find two new entries: Mary, the haunting of worth home The Zoo It’s not recommended for Children under 13. Price tickets starts from $64 for a single night ticket. Smorgarburg LA Every Sunday in October 2025, Smorgasburg LA  transforms the ROW DTLA into a foodie paradise. This weekly outdoor market features over 60 local vendors offering everything from global street food to artisanal desserts and craft drinks. Beyond food, you’ll also find unique pop-up shops, live music, and a lively community vibe that makes it one of LA’s favorite weekend hangouts. Whether you’re craving authentic tacos, trendy desserts, or something entirely new, Smorgasburg is the perfect Sunday plan for food lovers exploring Los Angeles this fall. Entry is free , and guests only pay for what they eat or buy, with most dishes priced between $7–$15 . Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch For a more family-friendly autumn experience, head to Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch  in Culver City that opens on Oct. 4th. Known for its whimsical pumpkin displays and photo-ready installations, it’s a go-to destination for families and couples. Kids can enjoy pony rides, a straw maze, and face painting, while adults can shop for the perfect pumpkin or sip seasonal drinks. With its festive atmosphere, Mr. Bones offers the quintessential LA fall experience, without ever leaving the city. Starting price from $15.

Fettuccine Homemade pasta is one of the most versatile foods and a common meal for people all over the world, especially if it's made without a machine. For those of you that want to elevate your experience while keeping it budget-friendly, homemade pasta might be a game changer! Read on to find the ingredients, materials, and recipes you’ll need! How can I make homemade pasta without a machine? One of the most popular pasta shapes is Fettuccine—a flat, ribbon-like pasta that is traditionally made with egg and flour. In this article, we’ll be highlighting how you can achieve delicious Fettuccine pasta using a rolling pin and a knife! With just the right amount of rolling, folding, and cutting, you’ll be on your way to a dish you can’t forget. What do I need to make homemade pasta without a machine? Here are a list of the ingredients you will need to make homemade pasta: Eggs and flour: with a classic formula of one egg per 100 grams of flour, this is an essential part of the recipe. Listed below are a few different ratios and combinations: 2 cups flour, 4 egg yolks, 2 whole eggs, 1 tbsp olive oil 2 cups flour, 3 eggs, 1 tbsp olive oil A pinch of salt! Here is a list of the equipment you might need: Rolling pin Sharp knife Floured surface Damp towel or something similar to rest your dough Cooling rack or something similar to hang strands of pasta! With these simple materials you likely already have in your kitchen, you’ll be able to make the dough. What are the steps to make the dough? Here are the steps to make dough for your homemade pasta: Pile flour on your work surface and form a mound. Make a well in the center (wide enough for your eggs and oil). Crack in your eggs and your olive oil (and don’t forget your pinch of salt!). Use a fork to whisk the eggs, slowly incorporating the flour from the walls of the well. Once a dough starts forming, use your hands to knead the dough. Knead for around 10 minutes in order to activate the gluten and make the dough more elastic. If your dough is too dry, wet your hands and continue kneading. If it’s too sticky, use a bit more flour! Rest the dough by wrapping it in a damp towel or wrap. Let it rest for 30 minutes-1 hour. How should I cut the pasta? Here are the steps to cut the pasta without a machine! Split your dough into 4 pieces. Take one piece at a time and use a rolling pin until it is evenly 1 mm thick. If you’d like, fold or roll the sheet. If the dough is not easily malleable, let it rest for longer. Use a sharp knife to cut ~¼ inch wide strips (the standard size for fettuccine!). Unfurl the strips and dust with flour to prevent them from sticking. Hang them on a rack to dry for a few minutes. What sauces go with this Fettuccine? Here are a few popular sauces for Fettuccine pasta, to get you started! Fettuccine Alfredo: combine Fettuccine with butter and Parmesan! (optionally: add cream) Meat Ragù (also known as Ragout): with beef or chicken, this is a great sauce to go with fettuccine. Lighter sauces: think ricotta, tomato-based, or vegetable sauces. When cooking your fresh fettuccine, make sure to cook it in boiling, salted water. Adjust your sauce with some pasta water as needed. We can’t wait to hear about your homemade pasta adventures! Whether you make it a date night or a fun dinner with friends, we hope you enjoy all that this recipe has to offer.

Sicilian Cannoli Known for their crispy outer shell, sweet ricotta filling, and tube-shaped nature, cannolis are a classic Sicilian dessert. Whether you like them topped with pistachios, chocolate chips, or other sweets, learning to make authentic Italian cannolis can be a game-changer. Read on for the real Italian recipe: complete with ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and the history behind cannolis. What is the history behind cannolis? Cannoli were originally Carnival treats and may have symbolized fertility. As a centuries-old tradition from Sicily, cannoli were originally made by wrapping pastry dough around tubes, and frying the shape. Although it is now mostly replaced with metal molds, the signature taste of cannoli remains. Read on to find out the recipe! What do I need to make cannolis? Here are the ingredients needed for the cannoli shells: 100 grams flour 20 grams granulated sugar 3 grams cocoa powder ⅛ tsp ground cinnamon 10 grams cold lard (or butter, flour, egg, and butter) 1 egg yolk 25 grams dry Marsala wine (or red wine, milk, and egg white) Orange zest 1 beaten egg Extra tip: a splash of vinegar to make the cannolis extra flaky and delicious! Here are the ingredients needed for the ricotta filling: 250 grams ricotta cheese (sheep’s milk ricotta is the most authentic flavor for cannolis!) 50 grams granulated sugar Pinch of salt Extra tips: for flavored ricotta fillings, add additional cream or sugar (for example: pistachio cream or strawberry sugar) Here are some popular toppings for cannolis: Candied fruit (ex. cherries or orange peel) Chocolate chips Pistachios Powdered sugar Some other tools you may need while making Sicilian Cannoli: Metal cannoli tubes or molds Mixing bowls Strainer or cheesecloth for draining and sifting ricotta Rolling pin and board Knife or round cutter Deep fryer or deep pot Pastry bag How do I make cannolis? Here are the steps to make cannolis: Combine flour, sugar, cocoa, cinnamon, and cold lard in a bowl (until they resemble breadcrumbs). Mix egg yolk with Marsala, then add to the dry mix (with the orange zest). Knead until the dough comes together. Rest the dough in the refrigerator for 30-60 minutes. Roll the dough thin and cut into rounds. Wrap each piece of dough around a metal tube and seal with beaten egg. Fry in hot oil (375 degrees Fahrenheit, 190 degrees Celsius) until golden. Sunflower or peanut oil is most ideal. Let the shells cool. Refrigerate the ricotta in a strainer over a bowl for at least several hours. Push the ricotta through the sieve, add sugar and whisk until smooth. Chill for at least 30 minutes. Fill the shells just before serving, using a pastry bag. Garnish your cannoli by dipping each end in any toppings of your choice. What are some good wine pairings with cannoli? Here are some wine pairings for your enjoyment: Vin Santo Moscato d’Asti Passito di Pantelleria Ruby Port Brachetto d’Acqui Prosecco Amabile Lambrusco For best results, we suggest matching the sweetness of the cannoli with the sweetness of the wine.

Patiently waiting for a new episode each Wednesday? For those of you who are fans of The Summer I Turned Pretty, this one’s for you. While the series is well into season 3, enjoy a recipe from an iconic moment in season 1, episode 4: a Pomegranate Margarita on Cousins Beach. Pomegranate Margarita What do I need to make pomegranate margaritas? Here is your grocery shopping list: Limes (to use for lime juice and for garnish) Pomegranate juice Tequila Cherry Kool-Aid (liquid): A classic in childhood and a classic now! Triple sec (orange liqueur, this is optional) Ice Salt or sugar (for rimming): Most people use salt, as it balances out the sweet flavor of your drink. How do I make the pomegranate margaritas? Here are step-by-step instructions to make your pomegranate margaritas: Prep your glasses by rimming with a lime wedge, and dipping into salt or sugar. Bonus tip: a half-salt, half-sugar rim can be a fun surprise! Put lime juice, pomegranate juice, tequila, cherry kool-aid, triple sec, and ice into your blender. The more ice you put in, the slushier it will be! Blend until smooth, and pour into rimmed glasses.  Serve and enjoy! What is the non-alcoholic version of the pomegranate margarita? For those of you who want to join in on the fun of the drink, but prefer to make it non-alcoholic, here are some tips for you: Replace triple sec with orange juice, if you’d like. Add some agave nectar or honey. If you want additional fizz—try sparkling water or club soda! This way, everyone can join in on the fun. What if I don’t want to use pomegranate juice? No worries: the substitutions are simple and easy. Here is a list of some juice substitutes for pomegranate: Cranberry juice: For a brighter, tart taste. Cherry juice: Sweet and with a beautiful color! Blackberry juice: Pairs great with lime and tequila. Raspberry juice: A bit lighter, if that’s what you’re looking for! Blood orange juice: For a vibrant color. What can I serve with pomegranate margaritas? For those of you who are looking to put together some snacks or food to serve with these delicious drinks, here are some pairings we’ve thought of: Guacamole and chips: A classic with margaritas! Shrimp tacos: Seafood matches the tanginess of pomegranate. Skewers: Because who doesn’t want a smoky bite? Taquitos: Crunchy and delicious! Caprese skewers: A fresh twist. We hope you enjoy this pomegranate margarita recipe at your next watch party of The Summer I Turned Pretty  with your friends!

Discover 3 ideas to celebrate the Hispanic Heritage Month in 2025, from cooking authentic recipes to traveling through Latin American traditions and sharing inspiring community stories. Hispanic Heritage Month Every year, from September 15th to October 15th , the United States celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month , honoring the cultures, traditions, and achievements of Hispanic and Latino communities. For Hispanic Heritage Month 2025 , why not go beyond attending an event and instead bring the celebration into your kitchen, travels, and conversations? Here, we’ve put together three ideas to celebrate this special month in a meaningful way. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with IMPASTIAMO From September 15 to October 15, IMPASTIAMO celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month  with a special program of private cooking classes designed for corporate teams and private groups. An opportunity to strengthen connections, embrace diversity, and discover the culinary traditions of Latin America together. From Argentine empanadas to Venezuelan arepas, through fresh Mexican salsas and Ceviche, our chefs will guide participants on a journey filled with recipes, stories, and shared experiences. Throughout each class, our chefs will share not only their expertise and techniques, but also the history and traditions behind these iconic dishes, reflecting the deep roots Hispanic cuisine has in USA’ cultural and culinary identity. After cooking, participants will enjoy their creations and celebrate together. Travel through culture even without leaving your city Not everyone can fly to Mexico City or Havana, but traveling through culture can start at home. Many cities across the U.S. will host parades, concerts, and museum exhibitions for Hispanic Heritage Month 2025 . Check local event calendars to discover a salsa night, a mariachi performance, or a photography exhibition about Latin American heritage. If you’re passionate about traveling abroad, plan your next trip inspired by this celebration: whether it’s to walk through the colorful streets of Cartagena in Colombia, taste wines in Argentina, or explore Mayan ruins in Guatemala. Celebrating heritage can be both global and local, offering endless opportunities to learn and connect. Share stories about the past Beyond food and travel, Hispanic Heritage Month 2025  is also about storytelling. Take time to read works by Hispanic authors such as Isabel Allende, Gabriel García Márquez, or Julia Alvarez. You can also engage directly by supporting local organizations that amplify Hispanic voices and create opportunities for cultural exchange. Celebrating through stories makes the month not just a festivity, but a chance to honor resilience, creativity, and identity. These three ideas for Hispanic Heritage Month 2025  - cooking with IMPASTIAMO, exploring cultural events, and sharing stories - are not only ways to celebrate, but also invitations to connect more deeply with the richness of Hispanic traditions.

When the school year kicks back into gear, lunch preparation can become one of the most stressful parts of the day. These 3 fast, easy and healthy back to school lunch ideas are perfect for both school-age kids and busy college students.  Best of all, they’re portable, easy to store, and designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort. Caprese Chicken Wrap with Basil Pesto The classic Caprese salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil is transformed into a portable wrap with the addition of lean chicken breast and a light pesto spread. Caprese Chicken Wrap with Basil Pesto Prep Time: 10 minutes Ingredients 1 whole wheat or spinach tortilla 3 oz cooked chicken breast, sliced thin 3 slices fresh mozzarella cheese 3–4 slices ripe tomato (or cherry tomatoes, halved) 1 tablespoon basil pesto A handful of fresh spinach or arugula Optional: balsamic glaze for drizzling Instructions Lay the tortilla flat and spread the basil pesto evenly. Layer spinach/arugula, chicken, mozzarella, and tomatoes. If desired, drizzle lightly with balsamic glaze. Roll tightly and slice in half. Wrap in parchment or foil for easy transport. Pasta Salad alla Mediterranea in a Mason Jar Pasta Salad alla Mediterranea in a Mason Jar Inspired by Southern Italian flavors, this Mediterranean pasta salad is layered in a mason jar for freshness. Perfect for meal prep: make 3–4 jars on Sunday and have lunch ready for most of the week. Prep Time: 15 minutes Ingredients 2 cups cooked rotini or farfalle pasta ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved ¼ cup black olives, sliced ¼ cup roasted red peppers, diced  ¼ cup artichoke hearts, chopped (optional) ¼ cup cubed provolone cheese ½ cup chickpeas (canned, drained, rinsed) 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar 1 teaspoon dried oregano Fresh parsley for garnish Instructions Whisk olive oil, red wine vinegar, and oregano in a small bowl. In a mason jar, layer dressing first, then chickpeas, roasted peppers, artichokes, olives, and tomatoes. Add pasta and top with provolone and parsley. Seal and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Shake before eating. Lunch Box with Prosciutto, Cheese, and Fruit This fast and healthy Italian-inspired lunch box is a lifesaver for mornings when there’s no time to cook. It’s packed with protein, healthy fats, and a mix of sweet and savory flavors. Lunch Box with Prosciutto, Cheese and Fruit Prep Time: 5 minutes Ingredients 3–4 slices prosciutto or turkey prosciutto 1 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini) or string cheese A small handful of grapes or apple slices A small handful of whole grain crackers or breadsticks (grissini) 5–6 cherry tomatoes Optional: a few olives or a mini container of hummus Instructions Arrange all ingredients in a compartment lunchbox or bento box. Keep crackers/breadsticks in a separate bag to avoid moisture. Refrigerate until ready to eat. Meal Prep & Storage Hacks Batch cook proteins: Grill chicken or roast vegetables in bulk for multiple lunches. Use freezer-friendly breads/wraps: Freeze and thaw overnight to prevent waste. Keep Italian pantry staples stocked: Olive oil, pesto, pasta, canned tomatoes, and olives last long and add instant flavor. Invest in quality containers:  Leak-proof mason jars, bento boxes, and thermoses keep food fresh. Prep fresh herbs ahead: Chop basil or parsley, store in ice cube trays with olive oil, and freeze. To sum, with just a few touches like fresh herbs, mozzarella, olive oil, and colorful vegetables, you can turn ordinary meals into a fast, healthy and easy lunch. The Caprese chicken wrap, Pasta salad alla Mediterranea, and an easy lunch box are fast and easy to prepare; healthy and balanced for lasting energy, making them the perfect back-to-school lunch solution. Next time you’re staring at an empty lunchbox or rushing out the door, remember: an Italian-style lunch is just minutes away.