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Whether you’re looking for a kitchen atmosphere full of electric energy, or a jazz tune as you hand-make pizza dough, evening cooking classes offer the perfect ambiance, weather, and vibe for your next free night. Take a moment to dance with the stars and the spatulas, and fall asleep with no dishes to wash (and dreams of your delicious food!). When In The Evening... It’s no surprise that many prominent events are held at night–whether it’s a soft summer sunset or a cozy winter night by the fireplace, there is a certain aura and glow in the later hours of the day that inspire creation, provoke thought, and lead to realizations. Evening cooking classes are no exception: the energy and warmth that the kitchen radiates at night, coupled with the excitement of a delicious meal, leads to the conclusion that cooking classes simply give more in the evening. And who doesn’t want more fun? In addition, reserving an evening for a cooking class is a lot easier than tackling the middle of your surely busy day-to-day schedule. The agenda for the rest of the day is pretty simple: cook, eat, go home, and sleep. Sounds appetizing. A Perfect Close After a long day of work or school or just doing life, all anybody wants to do is to relax. Well first, eat. And then relax, and unwind, and sleep. Evening cooking classes are the perfect combination of both–you get to unwind with the great company of friends, loved ones, and welcoming chefs–while also getting to taste some incredibly authentic food. The best part: you made it, which is sure to lead to a fulfilling end of the day. Plus, after all that work in the kitchen, you’re bound to have the most restful night of sleep afterward. Sounds like a win-win! Where Do I Start? Okay–so now you’re convinced you want to sign up for an evening cooking class. But where do you start? Luckily for you, there are plenty of resources to stay up to date on the opportunities for the delicious vision in your head. There are some specific websites that allow you to filter through cooking classes by noting your area, the date, and even the size of your group. In addition, filters such as cuisine, theme, price, and rating allow you to take an even deeper look to find one that’s right for you. Lucky for you, though, you don’t even need to venture beyond this website you’re reading right now! Cooking classes with IMPASTIAMO can be found in the “Book A Class” page here, where classes are separated by location and time, with a concise description of what you can expect. Current Cooking Classes with IMPASTIAMO Listed below are a few of the evening cooking classes available in the near future. This information is also available on the IMPASTIAMO website, so be sure to check it out for more updates in the future! Evening Cooking Classes with IMPASTIAMO As always, IMPASTIAMO offers accommodations to best fit your needs, and the evening cooking classes are no exception. Many of the classes offer vegetarian/vegan options, and chefs take great measures to make sure that your experience is one you won’t forget. Check out the IMPASTIMO website to see what cooking classes are available for you now! Set in many different locations, with both in-person and virtual options available, you are sure to find one that you will be interested in. Book a class now: you know you want to!

Sushi is among the most popular dishes in the world, and people worldwide are taking an interest in the authenticity and process of making it. Whether you want an explosion of flavors or a more subtle taste, the versatility of sushi presents an amazing opportunity to experiment with your palate and liven up your appetite. Read on to find out more about sushi lessons–and how to enrich your experience! The History of Sushi Sushi is well known for being an iconic Japanese dish, and its history is no exception: tracing back to ancient days, the combination of fish, rice, and sweet/savory tastes have been present for a long time. Just as with other culinary dishes, sushi has evolved through the years and adapted. Let this be a reminder of what you can do with sushi: while learning about traditional methods and authentic recipes, you can also add your own twist! In sushi lessons, your own input is valued and appreciated. Traditional or modern, the fusion of past and present is at the core of sushi-making. The Art of Sushi-Making While many people view cooking as a rudimentary skill that doesn’t require creativity or imagination, sushi-making is an art form. With fresh fish and ingredients, skillful methods, and beautiful presentations, attention to detail is one of the many aspects you will love in sushi lessons. Traditional chefs focus on making sure that every bite is delicious, which requires a lot of attention and focus, with additional care and love. Whether you are artistically inclined or just beginning to explore innovation, the art of sushi-making is the perfect way to channel your inner artist and feel inspired by the chef(s) and the people around you. Yes, there is a certain method to the way things are done, but ultimately, sushi lessons are what you make of the experience! Sushi Cooking Lessons As with any other cooking class, you are faced with multiple opportunities for various different experiences, whether you want to cook with other people or host a private class just for your and your loved ones. Regardless, you’re able to get the guidance you need from the best professional chefs, who are not only talented and experts on what they do but also are compassionate and truly excited to share their knowledge. A simple Google search on “sushi lessons” in whatever region you’re in is sure to have your ears perk up, and get you excited to embark on your journey! Mini Lesson: How to Make Sushi Soy Sauce It’s no secret that the soy sauce used to garnish sushi tastes a little different from your typical store-bought bottles. As a mini lesson, here are a few tips on how to get that sweet and salty glaze! This soy sauce is called “Nikiri,” and stands for “sweet soy sauce.” Taking your typical soy sauce (“Shoyu”), adding in some rice wine (“Mirin”) and boiling the two together can result in the thicker, sweeter taste that you’ve been searching for. This is a basic recipe and there are multiple variations and additions, so you can either experiment or research more to find out what’s right for you. As a good rule of thumb, the sauce should be about 2 times thicker than before. Have fun tailoring it to your taste! And learn more from chefs at sushi lessons. How to Find Sushi Lessons Near Me For beginners, an introduction to sushi lessons could begin at a casual venue, perhaps at community centers or even online classes. For those of you that are more advanced, sushi schools are more likely to offer culinary programs or workshops that will help you grow your skillset. One thing about sushi lessons is that you can only improve–even after years and years of experience, there is always something new to learn! Stay curious and look up sushi lessons near you. Benefits of This Experience So what else do you gain from sushi lessons, besides a newfound interest and knowledge in sushi? For one, you develop artistry that allows you to stretch your imagination beyond its usual constraints. Secondly, the cultural appreciation that you develop is not only great for understanding food but essential in understanding people. Sushi is also widely considered to be a healthy food, and the emphasis on fresh ingredients allows you to focus on sustainability and the importance of choosing local. Lastly, sushi lessons are what you make of it, so whether you want a group experience and meet new people or do something on your own, these classes offer the perfect opportunity for you to achieve your goals! Take on something new, and take away something great–what more could you ask for? Book your own private sushi party today! In just one hour, you'll become a sushi pro as we make rolls, hand rolls and nigiri. Plus, the best part? We'll feast on our creations together afterward! Don't miss out on this fun-filled culinary experience!

Birthday Cooking Classes are here to provide you and your loved ones with a delicious experience you will never forget. At the same time that people look forward to their birthdays, it is inevitable to also feel anxious about having to choose the perfect gift. Luckily for us, nowadays there are tools that allow us to create wishlists and boards, in order to help us save time and stress when looking for something we want. But what if we told you that we have the perfect gift idea that surpasses any material possessions? Organizing a cooking class for your birthday is the perfect gift that will leave you adding that to the top of your lists. Unforgettable experience Although wishlists and boards are useful tools for helping us get creative, material possessions sometimes can be lost, overworn, and easily forgotten with time. The whole point of birthdays is to celebrate one's life, and so your gifts should also symbolize a life worth being celebrated. Treating yourself to a birthday cooking class is the perfect present, as you are getting an experience that will allow you to have fun and also create long-lasting memories. Lifelong Skills Different than momentarily experiences such as a visit to Disneyland or bungee jumping, cooking classes provide you with a unique experience that will give you lifelong useful skills. Whether learning how to properly cut vegetables, how to make pizza dough from scratch, or even how to properly roll sushi, a cooking experience will have you always ready to prepare a delicious meal, and never again let your vegetables run bad in the fridge. Hands-on Experience Most of us when coming across the word “classes”, immediately associate it with being stuck in a classroom and having to sit down over long lectures. But cooking classes are far from being boring. Learning how to cook is a hands-on experience that stimulates all of your five senses. From learning how to maneuver a knife, to tasting different ingredients, gifting yourself a birthday cooking class is a great opportunity to learn something new without the fear of ever falling asleep in the middle of it. A love Language Cooking classes are great opportunities for you to connect with your loved ones on your special day, and demonstrate your desire to create special moments between you and them. A lot of our cooking classes are designed to serve couples and/or big groups, making them the perfect birthday gift that allows your loved ones to join you in this fun and memorable experience. So, is your birthday coming up and you would like to treat yourself to a cooking class? Here at IMPASTIAMO, we offer different cooking classes suited for all tastes and needs, with vegan and vegetarian options also available. For more information about our available classes, please refer to our website as we are based in different locations, with both in-person and online classes. What are you waiting for? Come celebrate your special day with us! We customize your experience from scratch, we take care of the logistic and of the menu design. Book a call now to find out more about this unique gift.

Pizza cooking classes are here to help unleash the Pizzaiolo inside you! And the best part? There is no need to fly to Italy, we got you covered with pizza cooking classes near you! To say pizza is the most popular and loved dish of all time is an understatement. But have you ever considered taking your love for pizza to the next level? Simplicity in Every Bite One of the reasons why pizza is such a beloved dish is due to its simplicity, yet complex and rich flavors. With just a few ingredients - dough, tomato, and cheese - you can create a perfectly satisfying meal. In a Pizza cooking class, you will discover how this simplicity works, as well as get the chance to explore different ingredients and make your pizza from scratch. Are Pizza Cooking Classes accessible for all? Yes! One of the greatest things about them, is that they're suitable for every person on any skill level. Unlike some other cooking classes that may require specific techniques and advanced equipment, pizza cooking classes are easy and fun to learn. Whether you are a cook, food enthusiast, or you just want to gift your kid or grandmother on their birthday; a pizza cooking class is a perfect option for anyone who wants to have a stress-free hands-on experience. The Taste of Authenticity One of the most important things when it comes to making a great dish, it’s the quality of its ingredients. In a pizza cooking class, you will have the opportunity to choose from different fresh and high-quality ingredients that will surely make you reconsider having pizza from a delivery app or frozen from the supermarket ever again. A trip to Italy In a pizza cooking class, you will get to immerse yourself in the traditions of Italian cuisine. You will learn about the importance of fresh ingredients, the process of dough fermentation, and how to properly stretch and shape the dough and bake it to perfection. The result is an authentic pizza with crusty dough and golden gooey cheese that will have you feeling like you did travel to Italy after all. From one Pizzaiolo to Another In a pizza cooking class, you are sure to be taught by passionate instructors who are masters in the art of pizza making. They will guide you step by step in the process while also sharing tips and tricks that you won’t find in any restaurant menu or recipe book. Pizza Cooking Classes with IMPASTIAMO So, ready to step up your pizza game but not sure where to find a pizza cooking class near you? We can help you with that! On our website, you can find our pizza cooking classes on the “Book A Class” page, and choose from any of our locations that are closest to you. Here is the date and location of our next pizza cooking class: Los Angeles Area Our pizza cooking classes also include vegetarian and vegan options, as we are committed to providing a memorable experience that best accommodates your needs. Please be sure to check our IMPASTIAMO website for future pizza cooking classes available near you, it is definitely a fun and unique experience you do not want to miss out on!

When it comes to gifting a relative, significant other, or just a friend, we all know the amount of guessing and thinking that goes into it. “I'm pretty sure they have it already” or “What if they think I am low-key saying they stink?” or “What if they hate it?” Well, your days of worrying are over because we have the perfect gift idea for you: Cooking class gift cards. As people started to value experiences more than material possessions, cooking class gift cards might be just the perfect gift idea. Whether they are an aspiring chef, a food enthusiast, or just someone worthy of a thoughtful present, cooking class gift cards are a creative and unique way of gifting an experience they will never forget. Not only is a cooking class great for enhancing cooking skills, but it is also a great opportunity for some bonding time with a loved one. Oh, and did we mention that cooking class gift cards are also stress-free ideas? No more guessing or being afraid of a returned item receipt. In this post, we will unpack why cooking class gift cards are great gift ideas. Unwrapping Experiences: No matter how well we think we know someone, gifting can be a pretty time-consuming and daunting task. Gifting a cooking class gift card can be a great option for showing how much you care for someone. Instead of merely gifting something material, you are offering them an opportunity to create memories and have a great time while developing new cooking skills, tasting different cuisines, and bonding with loved ones. Enhancing Culinary Skills: In spite of what many people might believe, cooking classes are not meant only for those who already know how to cook. Cooking classes provide hands-on experiences meant for anyone who is looking to develop new skills while also having fun. From maneuvering a knife properly to learning how to make pasta from scratch, cooking class gift cards provide a range of different skills for you to learn, as well as being a great way of helping your loved one step up their next BYOF party game. C'mon John, you can do better than your local grocery party-sized chips and guac! Bonding with Loved Ones: Aside from learning new skills, cooking class gift cards are a great opportunity for bonding with loved ones. Cooking a meal together encourages communication and cooperation, and at the same time fosters an informal environment that makes creativity and intimacy possible. If you are looking to strengthen your relationship with a partner, or hoping to create meaningful memories with your parents or kids, cooking class gift cards are the perfect gift ideas. Tasting Global Cuisines: Another reason for getting a cooking class gift card is that it provides a chance to explore different global cuisines. It allows the recipient to not only learn about the origin of the food and its different ingredients but also to immerse themselves in an aromatic and flavorful experience capable of transporting them through time and space. From French pastries to Brazilian Feijoada, cooking class gift cards offer a great opportunity to expand your palate and learn about different cultures and traditions. Stress-free Gifting: If all the previous reasons weren’t enough for you to be convinced about getting a cooking class gift card, this one might just do the trick. Cooking class gift cards are stress and hassle-free ideas as they offer a creative and engaging experience without having to spend hours guessing or worrying. Whether is a birthday, holiday, Valentine’s, or just a casual Saturday by yourself, cooking class gift cards are unique and versatile gifts that will leave everyone remembering you as the most creative and thoughtful relative, lover, or friend. Although nowadays we can just check someone’s Pinterest boards or Amazon Wishlist for ideas, getting someone a cooking class gift card is guaranteed to provide a way more fun and memorable experience that transcends the conventionality of a material gift and the lack of creativity of gifting something they already expect. By providing an enriching experience of learning new skills, bonding with loved ones, and tasting different cultures, cooking class gift cards are unforgettable gift ideas that will have everyone inviting you to their next birthday parties! Give the Gift of Cooking The Cooking Gift Card is the perfect solution for any cook in the kitchen who wants to get started, or sharpen their cooking skills. You can select the dollar amount you prefer, here's a guideline of what each amount will get your loved ones.

If you've spent any time on social media at all, you've probably come across the ooey gooey Italian comfort food, pastina. This traditional Italian dish has been popular wayyyyy before the internet, but thanks to social media it's even more trendy. You might even have trouble finding the noodles at your local grocery store because of the craze! Since summer of 2022, thousands of recipes for pastina have gone viral on TikTok and Instagram. Scrolling through the tag #pastina has over 77M views, with many, many individual videos garnering millions of views. Today we're talking about pastina–the way Italians really make it... ❤️ For many Italian Americans, pastina is more than an cute, star-shaped pasta—it’s the nostalgic centerpiece of childhood. Picture this: You are a little kid. You don't feel well. Your nonna cooks a big pot of pastina in broth and tops it off with spoonfuls of butter and Parmesan cheese and brings it to you in bed. What could be better than that? Nothing, probably. A bowl full of pastina is equivalent to chicken noodle soup or matzo ball soup; It nourishes the body, but more importantly the soul. What Type of Pasta is Pastina? Pastina is a type of small, grain-shaped pasta that is commonly used in soups or as a simple, comforting dish on its own. It is sometimes called "stars" or "stelline" because of its small, star-like shape. Pastina is typically made from durum wheat semolina flour, which is mixed with water and formed into small, grain-shaped pieces. It is a versatile pasta that can be used in a variety of dishes, from chicken noodle soup to simple buttered noodles. Does Pastina Use Raw Eggs? No, tradational pastina recipes do not call for raw egg. However, you do add an egg to the cooked pastina and the dish is stirred together quickly; the residual heat from the boiled pasta cooks the egg fully–adding a rich flavor and creamy texture to your pastina. What Type of Pasta is Similar to Pastina? If you are unable to find pastina at your local grocery store (le sigh), there are several other types of pasta that are similar in size and shape that you can use instead. Some options include: Orzo: Orzo is a type of pasta that is shaped like grains of rice, but slightly larger than pastina. It is commonly used in soups and salads. Acini di pepe: Acini di pepe is a small, round pasta that is about the same size as pastina. It is commonly used in soups, stews, and pasta salads. Israeli couscous: Israeli couscous is a type of pasta that is shaped like small balls. It is slightly larger than pastina, but can be used as a substitute in soups and stews. Ditalini: Ditalini is a short, tube-shaped pasta that is similar in size and shape to pastina. It is commonly used in soups and stews, as well as in pasta salads. Overall, the best substitute for pastina will depend on the specific recipe and your personal preference. Experiment with different types of small pasta to find the one that works best for you. What is the Difference between Orzo and Pastina? The main difference between orzo and pastina is their shape and size. Orzo is rice-shaped and larger, while pastina is star-shaped and very small. Additionally, orzo is commonly used in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, while pastina is often used in Italian cuisine. Feeling hungry? Suddenly craving a bowl of creamy, cheesy pastina? Give one of these pastina recipes below a try— it's like a warm hug in a bowl. How to Make Pastina (the Italian Way) Now, for the important part: how to cook pastina? It's simple: Ingredients: 1 cup pastina (small pasta) 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) Instructions: In a large pot, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil over medium-high heat. Add the pastina to the pot and stir gently. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the pasta cook for about 10 minutes, or until tender. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly golden. Remove the skillet from the heat and set aside. Once the pastina is cooked, remove the pot from the heat and add the garlic and olive oil mixture, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir again. If desired, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top of the pastina. Serve the pastina hot and enjoy! This simple and traditional Italian dish is perfect for a comforting and quick meal. Buon appetito! Favorite Pastina Recipes Pastina Stuffed Tomatoes These Pastina-Stuffed Tomatoes are a delicious and fun twist on traditional stuffed peppers! Perfect for a summer dinner party or family gathering, these stuffed tomatoes are a colorful and flavorful side dish. The filling features tender pastina pasta, fresh herbs, and grated parmesan cheese, all baked inside a juicy and ripe tomato. The result is a burst of savory and tangy flavors that are sure to impress your guests. P Plus, these stuffed tomatoes are easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making them a stress-free addition to your menu. Pastina with Mushrooms & Bacon This recipe for Pastina with Mushrooms & Bacon is a quick and easy dish that is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. The dish features tender pastina pasta, savory bacon, and earthy mushrooms, all combined in a deliciously creamy sauce made with chicken broth and heavy cream. The recipe requires only a handful of ingredients and can be prepared in under 30 minutes. It is a comforting and satisfying meal that will warm you up on even the coldest of nights. Chicken Lemon Pastina Soup This Chicken Lemon Pastina Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! Imagine tender pieces of chicken, delicate pastina pasta, and a zesty lemon broth that's both comforting and refreshing. It's like a spa day for your taste buds! This soup is perfect for when you want something light and nourishing, but still crave those classic chicken noodle soup flavors. Plus, it's so easy to make that you'll have plenty of time to binge-watch your favorite shows while it cooks. Cozy up with a bowl of this soup and let it soothe your soul. Take your Italian cooking to the next level! Check out our upcoming classes, or book a private cooking class with us today 🫶

The devil is in the details... 🤌 There are many essentials of a true, Italian themed party–but if you’re looking for an easy way to dip your toes in, here’s a great place to get started! Italian Themed Party Decorations and Place Settings In Italy, the table is at the heart of their world-famous food culture. Even for an informal weeknight dinner or party, many Italian families take the time to lay out a tablecloth and select the proper glassware. This Italian habit underlies the importance of making time and space for food and family. If you want to party like an Italian, taking some time to properly set the mood should be your first priority. "No paper, no plastic, no throwaway item will ever grace my table," Brunello Cucinelli, Italian fashion designer and foodie extraordinaire, tells the New YorkTimes. In general, rustic designs, bright colors and homemade-feeling decorations are great for Italian themed parties, specifically vintage or hand-me-down items. You want to strike a balance between effortless style and comfortable homeliness when you're decorating for an Italian themed party. 📌 Check out our Italian Themed Party | Decorations & Table Settings board here for some inspo before you start decorating. Italian Themed Appetizers (aka Antipasti) If there’s one thing Italians know well, it’s that no social gathering of family & friends is complete without plenty to eat and drink. If you’re having people over for an Italian themed party, you’ll want to have plenty of delicious food to keep everyone happy and full. In English, we call them appetizers. In Italian, they're known as "antipasti", which are a colorful and delicious way to set the stage for the coming feast. In Italian tradition, antipasti are selected for color, flavor, texture and how well they complement both each other and the meal to come. With their gorgeous presentation and entertaining ease, antipasti have become an art all their own. Antipasti are great for an Italian themed party because they’re easy to prepare, simple to serve and very fun to eat. Here are a few of our favorite Italian appetizers: Roasted Asparagus with Crunchy Parmesan Topping Olive Oil, Hazelnuts and Cocoa Biscotti Taleggio and Black Pepper Pizza Arancini with Bolognese Ragu Easy Antipasto Skewers Caponata Whipped Ricotta Crostini Rosemary Focaccia Bread A Bread + Oil Appetizer Dipping Station Prosciutto and Melon Appetizers 📌 Head to our Italian Themed Party | Food board on Pinterest for some more ideas on what to make for your next party. Italian Themed Drinks It’s hard for us to decide which to love more: Italian food or Italian cocktails! Many Italian drinks are best served alfresco with a sparkling view of the water–but if you’re planning on sticking closer to home this summer, here are some of our favorite Italian-inspired party drinks to serve at your next Italian style gathering: Aperol Spritzs Bellinis Negronis Palomas Prosecco Prosecco is always a good staple to have on hand when you're planning an Italian themed party. It's delish on it's own, but also makes the perfect base for an apertif; add some pomegranate juice to make a Tintoretto or peach purée for a Bellini. Alternatively, an Aperol Spritz is always a crowd pleaser. Just add a splash of Aperol, club soda and an orange slice and you’ll be transported to a Bacaro in Venice. Flipping through a wine list is always an exciting part of a meal but since you won’t have a sommelier on hand to help you out, you need to create your own pairings… with Italian wine of course. Don’t panic – picking out wine for your Italian themed party is actually so much fun. And be sure to have plenty of caffe (espresso!) on hand to stop yourself and all your guests from sinking into a food coma after your party. Italian Themed Music What's an Italian themed party without the tunes?? For the best time, you'll need plenty of good food, great company and the perfect playlist! Whether you’re cooking or eating, listening to Italian music is sure to get you set up for the perfect party. To save you from the hassle of creating a new playlist for your next gathering, we put together this Italy for an Evening playlist on Spotify! Tune in, turn it up, and let the music transport you to Italy for the night. This is an Italian themed party after all, so make sure that you relax and enjoy yourself–and get your guests to do the cleaning up! Buon appetito 📌 Don't forget to check out our Italian Themed Party board on Pinterest for all the inspo you'll need! 📌 Do you have any fun hosting tips, or ideas about what to serve at an Italian themed party? Share them with us on Instagram at @impastiamoclasses or comment below! 👇 pin me for later!

Up your #GreenGame with our favorite sustainability-focused Instagram accounts So you want to live a more sustainable lifestyle, but don’t really know where to start? Since we’re all on our phones anyways, why not add a little more sustainable-focused content to your Insta feed? From drool-worthy, plant-based creators to zero waste hacks, we’ve got you covered with a list of Instagram accounts that are bound to motivate and inspire you to live a more sustainable lifestyle. 1. @browngirl_green Kristy Drutman is a Filipina-American activist, eco podcaster, content producer and the creator of Brown Girl Green, a platform that explores the intersectionality of diversity, inclusion and media within the environmental movement. She is also an Assistant Lecturer at the University of California, Berkeley at the Haas School of Business. "I turn climate doom into humor, healing chats, and educational tools for action," she says. "My work operates at the intersections between media, culture, storytelling, and environmental advocacy." 2. @queerbrownvegan In his videos, Isaias Hernandez breaks down topics on the environment, like “Why can’t we just throw trash into volcanoes?” or “Does spray or stick deodorant last longer?” and so on–and the answers are always a little bit more complicated than you think! Isaias also talks about current events – like the recent deadly tornados in Kentucky. In addition to discussing current events such as the recent deadly tornado in Kentucky, Isaias discusses environmental issues like migration, income disparity, and race. He discusses his experiences within the climate and sustainability world, and draws attention to the disparities in outdoor culture and environmental NGOs for POC and LGBTQ+ people. In his swipe-through posts, he breaks down complex issues like why young people are anxious about climate change, how property values are affected by climate change, why honey isn't vegan, and how to survive climate doomsday. 3. @going.zero.waste Kathryn’s eco-friendly & frugal living Instagram is full of environmental news, sustainable cooking tips, lifestyle hacks and gorgeous pics. Not only will you be inspired to live more sustainability just by looking at her page, but you will also be better informed on issues like food waste, plastic waste, and more. Check her out here @going.zero.waste 4. @wasteless.at Waste less, buy less, live more. This page features tons of hacks, tips, and tricks for greener, healthier living. Check the page here @wasteless.at 5. @dominiquedrakeford Dominque Drakeford is a Brooklyn-based environmental educator with a BS in Business Environmental Management and an MFA from NYU in Sustainable Entrepreneurship and Fashion. Besides that, she's the founder and creative director of online publication MelaninASS (Melanin & Sustainable Style) and co-founder of Sustainable Brooklyn (an organisation that champions the voices of disenfranchised communities in sustainability).MelaninASS(Melanin & Sustainable Style) and co-founder of Sustainable Brooklyn, an organization that “champions the voices of disenfranchised communities in the sustainability movement." 6. @jackharries Jack Harries is a young climate activist and co-founder of @earthrise (another Instagram account to follow), which publishes important stories on the climate crisis. Harries has had a monumental year: from interviewing Sir David Attenborough, Barack Obama, to launching Seat At The Table with YouTube, he’s an inspirational follow. Follow along here @jackharries 7. @sustainablysage Georgette's account is full of plant-based meal ideas. She also shares her cool and inexpensive finds from thrift stores and other secondhand purchases. She aims for low-waste living and highlights products made with eco-friendly practices. 8. @mikaelaloach Climate justice activist Mikaela Loach focuses on sustainability with inclusivity. Based in Edinburgh, she is also the co-host and co-producer of the YIKES podcast which explore climate change, human rights and social justice. 9. @wastefreeplanet This page is perfect for if you’re just beginning a sustainable lifestyle. It’s filled with recipes (the almond ricotta toast is a game-changer), helpful tips, and pantry inspo to help you get started. They’ve even got some green beauty hacks, like how to make your own ethical eye serum. Yep, you’ll probably spend hours on this account and no, we’re not sorry about it. 10. @futureearth Self-branded as a ‘climate club’, Future Earth founders Stephanie Shepherd Suganami and Mahtab Max Moinian have created a social space for need-to-know climate facts, motivational quotes and their encouraging ‘Good News Tuesday’. Follow if you're interested in little daily reminders as to why the fight for climate justice is so important. Is there a #sustainable Instagram account that we missed? Comment their @ below and we'll add their links here! #impastiamo #sustainableliving

Looking for a fun way to get your team involved in Earth Day this year, remotely? Keep scrolling for our favorite Earth Day activities for your team... What Exactly is Earth Day? Earth Day is the world’s largest grassroots environmental event. On April 22, 1970, 20 million Americans took to the streets and to college campuses across the country to protest environmental ignorance and demand change for an environment in crisis. Earth Day was a pivotal day in pushing activism and forcing governments to do more, spawning the creation of The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Clean Air, Clean Water Act and the Endangered Species Act, just to name a few. The work is far from done, however. In light of our rapidly approaching deadline for irreversible damage to our planet, we are again being urged to take action and demand change for ourselves and for future generations. According to the UN General Assembly, we have under 10 years to stop climate change damage. Despite consumer pressure urging big brands to rethink their environmental impact and switch to more sustainable practices, there is still much to be done. We still have a long way to go to ensure our planet will be here for future generations. It may not be possible to gather in the streets with your team, join a park or beach clean-up, or plant a tree outside your office this year, but there are plenty of ways for your team to celebrate Earth Day–in person or at home. If you’re looking for some ways to celebrate Earth Day with your team and get everyone excited about going green, we’ve got you covered. Here are four ways to celebrate Earth Day with your team–virtually or in person–that will *actually* make a difference. 1. Host a Virtual Earth Day Experience for Your Team The amount of information you can find online these days is both impressive and overwhelming. If you're looking to get your team involved in a virtual Earth Day experience, but you don't know where to begin, you've come to the right place. We’re offering a virtual Earth Day experience free of charge, on April 25th! Sign up here, or reach out to our team to set up a personalized Earth Day experience just for you and your team–no matter the group size or budget size. "Great team activity to do when everyone works remotely. IMPASTIAMO takes care of everything from invitations, logistics, delivery, etc. Highly recommend this professional yet fun class!" –Paule, Grenier 2. Swap Out Single-Use Plastic for Reusable Containers Sadly, only about 1% of the estimated 4 trillion plastic bags used worldwide (yearly) are returned for proper recycling. 😳 On top of that, it can take up to 1,000 years for a plastic bag to break down. Yikes. It's no secret that we have a pretty serious plastic problem. If you are searching for eco-friendly food storage and reusable bags, there are plenty of options. One of our favorites is Stasher–a reusable storage option that has promised to give away 100,000 bags to help keep single-use plastics out of our landfills and oceans. They’re also members of 1% For the Planet, so a portion of their sales goes to non-profits like Surfrider and 5 Gyers. If your team is going back into the office, encourage everyone to start using reusable bags, or (better yet) treat your whole team to a set of their own reusable bags. If your team is still working from home, encourage your team to be mindful about the plastic that they’re using every day. Celebrate Earth Day this year by making a team building exercise out of reducing plastic waste. #doitfortheplanet 3. Host a Virtual Documentary Viewing Between all the streaming services available today, there are hundreds of opportunities to learn about how and where you can make a change this Earth Day. Many streaming services offer a “watch party” feature so that you and your team can watch a flick together virtually. Here are a few of our favorite documentaries to stream on Earth Day: Jane Before the Flood Our Planet Life in Color With David Attenborough Cowspiracy Chasing Coral Seaspiracy Wasted Earth Day The Day The Earth Stood Still - The Holocene Extinction A Plastic Ocean 4. Make it Competitive Sometimes, the best team building events are those that extend beyond the day itself and encourage meaningful changes over a longer period of time. This year, consider starting a little competition for your team, centered around a theme–like plastic pollution or food waste. Set a timeline of something like 1-2 months, and see who can save the most plastic in that time. To get you started, you can have everyone use this plastic pollution calculator to calculate their plastic use, and record the results in a spreadsheet. Then, when the time has lapsed, offer a prize to the person who has achieved the most. For extra motivation, you can encourage people to contribute their conservation actions to Earth Day’s Billion Acts of Green program. If you care about the environment and also want to engage your team, Earth Day is a perfect time to take action. If you have an idea that you'd like to see come to life, we want to help! Some of the virtual team building classes that we've done in the past include: Sustainability Focus: How to avoid food waste at home This class will teach you how to reduce your carbon footprint with dietary and lifestyle changes. Sustainability Focus: Grow your own food Our expert gardener will deliver simple solutions and ideas for growing your own veggies from food scraps, such as celery, potatoes, and more. Health Focus: How does food heal us? You'll learn about natural ways to improve your health, increase attention and boost your creativity through the use of healthy ingredients. During this class, you'll try two different meals with an expert nutritionist who will explain all about the properties of the foods. Cooking Techniques: An Introduction to Knife Sharpening Would you like to sharpen your cooking skills? Pun intended, this class will teach you to learn how to properly sharpen your kitchen knives and care for it them the proper way. If you're interested in setting up a corporate cooking class, book a call below to learn more and begin the journey to better team building:

Photo Credit: Getty Images Gnocchi (pronounced N(Y)OK-ee), is a staple dish of Italian cuisine. They are served as a main course, and just like pasta they come with different sauces. They can be stuffed, but please don’t call them dumplings! They have nothing to do with Italian dumplings (ravioli or tortellini), the ingredients to prepare the dough are slightly different. Gnocchi became famous in the US during the Sixties, the NYT food critic and journalist Craing Clairbone used to write about them: “One Italian specialty that has not achieved the fame of spaghetti and pizza, but one that thoroughly deserves respect, is gnocchi”. Gnocchi are usually as big as half wine cork, what differentiate them from other types of pasta is that they are made with the addition of potatoes and are shaped with a specific tool, called “Gnocchi board”. The dough is really soft and easy to shape, and once flipped on the gnocchi board, or with a fork, you should be able to see that one side of the gnocco (the singular for gnocchi) is ridged. You are probably wondering: is that operation really necessary? Of course it is, Italian nonnas never make mistakes or lose their time when it comes to cooking. The ridges allow the gnocchi to better absorb the sauce and accentuate the flavor once they’re melting into your mouth. Each Italian region (and each Country) has its own version of gnocchi. Tuscan gnudi are made with ricotta cheese and spinach, Sardinian malloreddus are made with semolina flour, while the most basic and known version simply uses all-purpose (or white) flour. As often happens, when it comes about gnocchi the most common and delicious way to serve them is with tomato sauce - yes, every Italian has a childhood memory related to gnocchi al pomodoro, served hot and juicy at granny’s house -. “The result is a delicately flavored dish that is delicious when sprinkled with butter and eaten as is, or served with a tomato sauce”, wrote Mr. Claiborne. Do you know what makes this dish so loved by Italian people? They’re super funny and easy to make. Now it’s your turn to prepare Gnocchi with Pomodoro Sauce with the easy recipe below! [RECIPE] Gnocchi with Pomodoro Sauce SERVES: 2 DOUGH: 1 ½ lbs russet potatoes (about 2) 2 cups (250 g) all purpose flour 1 egg, beaten pinch of salt SAUCE: 2 oz (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil 2 garlic cloves, whole or finely minced 9 oz (255 g) whole peeled tomatoes, crushed by Fresh basil leaves (optional) Parmesan cheese, to garnish (optional) Pinch of salt COOK THE POTATOES Wash the potatoes, place them in a pot with cold water and bring to a boil, then lower to a simmer and cook for about 30 minutes or until easily pierced with a fork with no resistance. SHAPE THE GNOCCHI Drain the potatoes and refill the pot with salted water for cooking the pasta; bring to a boil. Use a potato ricer or food mill to process the potatoes into a fine meal. If you don’t have a ricer or food mill, you can cut each potato in half lengthwise and grate the cut-side through a cheese grater (while holding the peel-side with a towel, since it’s hot!); the peel won’t go through the grater. Place the processed potatoes on a cutting board and add flour, egg, and a pinch of salt and nutmeg. Using a folding motion, gently bring the ingredients together to form a dough. Shape the gnocchi by taking a portion of the dough, nudging it into a rope ½-inch thick, and cutting the rope into 1-inch long “pillow” shapes. PREPARE THE SAUCE Place a saucepan over medium heat and add the olive oil and garlic. Saute until fragrant and golden, about 1 minute. Add the crushed tomatoes and season with a pinch of salt. Cover the saucepan and let the sauce cook for 15 minutes. Taste for salt, then set aside. ASSEMBLY Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop the gnocchi into the boiling water and cook for about 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface. Remove them with a slotted spoon. Toss the gnocchi with the sauce, adding more pasta water as necessary to achieve a silky, glossy texture. Taste for seasoning and add salt to taste. Serve with basil leaves and parmesan cheese. Photo credit: Getty Images Want to try more Gnocchi? Check our Gnocchi portofino recipe. Try our Gnocchi with Sage Leaves, Butter, and Parmigiano Reggiano recipe The perfect Gnocchi gift at our store, check our IMPASTIAMO Gnocchi Board

In the ever-changing world of organisations, it is increasingly important to keep your teams effective, happy and engaged. Today’s teams are different from the teams of the past: They’re far more diverse, dispersed, digital, and dynamic (with frequent changes in leadership and membership). But while teams face new hurdles, their success still hinges on a core set of fundamentals for group collaboration. Enter: team building exercises... Team building exercises are crucial for businesses looking to improve company culture and build strong, trusting and highly collaborative teams. Unfortunately, the exercises many companies use to strengthen their teams often lack essential elements needed for success. This can lead not only to wasted time, but also to disinterest in similar activities in the future. An effective team-building exercise will engage every member of the team and help each connect with one another, which can be a difficult feat. To help you achieve this, we're sharing four secrets to effective team building exercises to make a lasting impact on your company culture. Active Inclusion Of Less-Vocal Members One of the secrets to successful team building is to ensure everyone is working well together and learning from one another–including those who are less-vocal or outspoken. When you listen to those who may feel left out or not as involved, you will ensure that you are engaging others who are less likely to speak up. By fostering active inclusion, you can form positive relationships, strengthen team bonds, and collaborate more effectively across your entire team. A Clearly Communicated Objective One of the most important secrets to successful team building is communication. It is essential to have a clear objective when organizing a team-building activity. Without a purpose, it just becomes a meaningless activity that cannot be judged as successful or unsuccessful. In the absence of an objective, it is hard to understand whether tasks were successful or not, and participants have difficulty buying into the process. Encouraging Brainstorming and Creativity Brainstorming should also be encouraged by the teams throughout the project. The team will benefit most from having an efficient brainstorming session once a week. All ideas should be welcomed and considered. When it comes to coming up with ideas, the team should think outside the box and be analytical. It is important to listen to everyone's ideas in order to build trust within the group and spark ideas that might lead to success. Make it FUN! Most importantly, these are real people you're working with. If you're proposing a team building activity that you yourself wouldn't find fun, chances are your team won't either. When you're searching for team building activities, consider what kinds of activities your team will actually like. If you're still on the hunt for a fun team building class, consider IMPASTIAMO's corporate cooking classes! "I organized a dumpling cooking class for my company for Lunar New Year. The chef was based in Shanghai, which was awesome! Silvia was super responsive to all of my questions and helped provide a great experience for my team. She was also on the Zoom and helped facilitate a fun class and asked the chef questions while we were cooking. Everyone enjoyed the class and the dumplings turned out super delicious. Definitely recommend this experience!" –Liz Marshall (After a Corporate Cooking Class) If you're interested in setting up a corporate cooking class, book a call below to learn more and begin the journey to better team building:

A rapidly-growing number of chefs and culinary experts are fighting to break down racial barriers in the food industry, and make their mark on American cuisine. In celebration of #blackhistorymonth, we’re sharing a few of the most inspiring black chefs that have changed food forever. Mariya Russell Mariya Russell is the first black woman ever to receive a Michelin star! As head chef at the uber-popular Chicago bar, Kumiko and its sister restaurant, Kikko. She specializes in plates that authentically showcase Japan’s rich technique, ingredients, and flavors. Her contribution to the restaurant's success has contributed to winning the Food & Wine Magazine's Best New Restaurant Award. Barbara Smith The first Black woman to be elected to the Culinary Institute of America board, Barbara Smith worked her whole life to break racial barriers as a model, and later as a famous restauranteur. Barbara was well-known for her restaurant in Manhattan, B. Smith’s, which opened in 1986 and immediately attracted a large following among influential black New Yorkers–who welcomed it as a delicious, fashionable gathering spot. "The who's who of black Manhattan eat there regularly," Essence magazine wrote in 1995. Often (fondly) dubbed "Black Martha Stewart," Smith was a lifestyle icon thanks to her cookbooks, restaurants, home collection line, and weekly TV show. Barbara Smith’s favorite motto was, "Whatever you do, do it with style.” Marcus Samuelsson Not only is Marcus a best-selling cookbook author, but he's also a media personality and one of the world's most famous chefs. As an executive chef in New York City, Marcus Samuelsson became the youngest chef in history to get a three-star rating by The New York Times at just 24 years old. Using food, culture, and history, he seeks to highlight the diversity of Black cooking throughout America. He’s also written one of our favorite cookbooks! Patrick Clark Patrick Clark was born in Brooklyn, NYC and was raised in Canarsie, a residential neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York. He trained and worked under three-star chef Michel Guérard in France, and then in 1988, he opened his own restaurant, Metro, on the Upper East Side. Clark was the first Black chef to win a James Beard best chef award. He was the head chef at the legendary Tavern on the Green and later went to work at Washington, D.C.’s prestigious Hay-Adams Hotel. He later catered meals at the White House. When he passed away in 1998, his obituary called him “one of America’s most beloved chefs.” Edna Lewis Edna Lewis was a renowned chef, culinary ambassador, and (according to many) the “Godmother of Southern Cooking.” As a talented chef and author, Edna Lewis inspired Americans to appreciate southern meals in a brand new way. After seeing the need for more high-quality cookbooks and creative Southern recipes, Lewis started working on her own. At the time, women chefs weren't that common, and black women chefs were even more rare, but Lewis wanted to bring fresh, seasonal ingredients into American kitchens. Her first book, The Edna Lewis Cookbook–featuring over 100–was an instant bestseller. According to the National Women's History Museum, Edna was one of the first black women from the South to write a cookbook without hiding her identity. Alexander Smalls In addition to being an acclaimed opera singer, Chef Alexander Smalls has also won Grammy and Tony awards. Using equal passion and ingenuity, this food innovator creates culinary masterpieces and beautiful music. The Afro-Asian-American edibles that he creates seem so right, as if they have always existed. As he turns Low Country fare into elevated cuisine, Smalls also pays tribute to the music and heritage that helped shape his identity in South Carolina. Carla Hall Carla Hall may just be one of the most visible Black chefs in America as a result of her national recognition from Top Chef and The Chew. To her, cooking with love means preparing food from the soul to nourish others' souls. While modeling in Europe, the Nashville native fell in love with food, and she decided to become a chef, blending classic French technique with Southern influence. Kwame Onwuachi After winning "Top Chef" season 13, Kwame Onwuachi (Forbes 30 Under 30) was ready to change the world of food forever. A few years ago, he wrote a memoir called "Notes From a Young Black Chef." The same year, he also won a James Beard Award for Rising Star Chef.Having trained at top restaurants in the country, his food at Kith/Kin pays homage to Afro-Caribbean and Creole food, as well as the African diaspora.