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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.

These romantic dinner date ideas are sure to impress, and these easy meals for two can (and should!) be made together. Tiramisu, dumplings, and customizable pizzas all included. These fun date night ideas will make staying in the new going out. 1. Whip Up Something Delicious Together If you’re frantically searching for date night ideas near me, your search ends here. Seriously. What better way to spend time with your special someone (and fill your belly with delicious food) than by making something delicious together? Here are some of our favorite (easy!) date night recipes for two: Make a Classic Tiramisù Tiramisù is for everyone, but especially for lovers! Ditch the expensive restaurant next date night and treat your special someone to a fun experience and a delicious dessert at the same time. In this online cooking class, Chef Francesco will skillfully walk you through making one of the most beloved desserts of all times. Nothing says “I love you” like a homemade batch of tiramisù! Try Our Chicken and Mushroom Claypot Rice If you’re looking to make something on the heartier side, this Chicken and Mushroom Clay Pot Rice is sure to please. Want to make it even more special? Mix up a margarita beforehand and have a batch of tiramisu for after! A date night menu that's perfect for two. Take a Pizza Making Class In this virtual cooking class, master chef Peppe Miele will teach you and your date how to make authentic Neapolitan Pizza, in every shape and form; calzone, panzerotto, traditional, gluten free and more! We have both in-person and online classes available, so if you and your date are hoping for a fun night in, this is the perfect option for a cozy date night. Pop open a bottle of your favorite wine or serve up a few refreshing Paloma de la Tardes. Give the Gift of Dumplings This easy-to-follow virtual class will steal your heart for good. You and your date will learn how to make, fill, and wrap your own homemade dumplings in this virtual dumpling making class. For more information or to book your date night experience, click here. 2. Book an In-Home Chef for You and Your Date If you’re looking for a unique date night idea, but you’re not too keen on the idea of cooking yourself, how about booking a world-renowned chef to come to you? Instead of spending most of your special evening in the kitchen, bring a 5-star meal straight to your table and surprise your date with a fancy night in, where neither of you have to cook. (win/win!) Hire one of our expert chefs for your next dinner party, birthday, anniversary, brunch, luncheon, cocktail party, Valentine's Day date, or any other special event. Starting at only $350 (for two people), our in-home chef experience will woo you and your partner with a meal fit for royalty. Book a call to schedule your date night in-home chef experience today! 3. Go Straight for the Dessert Who says you can’t stick to the sweets on date night? If you want to impress your date, you can always opt for the perfect chocolate cake, a gooey Banana Bread French Toast, or next-level chocolate chip cookies to kick off your evening with your sweetie. Whether you’re going out or staying in, these date night recipes will come in handy when it’s time to treat your special someone, so don’t forget to save this post! ❤️ Make sure to follow us on @Instagram and Pinterest!

Since the beginning of time, women have played the essential roles of feeding and nurturing our communities, but there are a few special ones who have changed the game. In honor of Women's History Month, we're showcasing some of the chefs, creators, and businesswomen making waves in the food industry. Silvia Carluccio | Owner + Founder IMPASTIAMO We’d be totally remiss if we didn’t first mention our founder, Silvia. This powerhouse of a woman founded IMPASTIAMO as a reaction to the global pandemic, and has been working tirelessly to cultivate the relationship that we have with food and cooking, ever since. Thanks to Silvia’s hard work, we’ve been able to raise money for some amazing nonprofits like No Us Without You, various California Food Banks, and Feed the Music–a series of cooking classes hosted by musicians in support of the music industry. “As soon as the pandemic hit, I realized that while the food industry was going to be impacted the most, people needed to eat, connect with one another, and chefs still had a need to share their art and cook for people while making money. My main goal was to use technology as a way to continue bringing people together and allow people to express themselves and forget about Covid for a couple hours. IMPASTIAMO was born as a way to connect people and help professionals continue earning money.” Read more about Silvia here! Alexis Brown & Ariel Neal | Founders Causing a Stir It was at a luncheon two years ago that Alexis Brown and Ariel Neal found their way of giving back. Angered by the lack of diversity in the bartending industry, the two women came together and created Causing a Stir , an organization that aims to "uplift and empower underrepresented and underserved individuals in the hospitality industry," Neal said. Since its inception in 2016, thousands of women looking to build successful careers in the food and beverage industry have utilized their amazing resources. Read more here. Elisabeth Atangana | Regional Platform of African Peasant Organizations Chair of the Regional Platform of African Peasant Organizations and a farmer by profession, Atangana is a lifelong champion for rural rights and women’s empowerment in agriculture. Atangana served as President of the Pan-African Farmers Organization from 2010 to 2012, where she worked to create training opportunities throughout the food and farming sector. In 2012, Atangana was appointed as Special Ambassador for Cooperatives to the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization. Alice Waters | “Inventor of California Cuisine” Alice Waters is affectionately known as the inventor of California Cuisine. Like many famous female chefs, she had a love for French cooking techniques but also a passion for fresh, local produce and naturally-sourced ingredients. She opened her restaurant, called Chez Panisse, in Berkeley in 1971 and made a unique statement by offering a set five-course, fixed-price menu. The meal was made only from the freshest seasonal and local products that she sourced from a community of farmers and ranchers who provided her with naturally grown, mostly organic foods. Alice was an inspirational female chef who stayed true to her values of sustainability by incorporating organic and healthy foods into a structured restaurant environment. She led the way for a fresh approach to cooking and launched a trend for organic and locally produced ingredients that has now become mainstream around the world. She’s also known for her organic food project called the Edible Schoolyard Project, a food education program that teaches kids about how to grow, cook with, and enjoy healthy, organic foods all while serving the community. Gabriela Cámara | Owner + Founder Cala A female chef hailing from Mexico City, Cámara opened Cala in San Francisco. She filled 70% of the staff openings with former convicts, proving that if you treat your employees well, and pay them above minimum wage, the high turnover rates of restaurant staff will almost disappear. In addition to creating sustainable work opportunities, Gabriela is dedicated to creating a cultural exchange through food that she serves. And last month, the Mexican government named Ms. Cámara to a new Council of Cultural Diplomacy, composed of people who bring global prestige to Mexican culture. save me for later!

The Madia pizza dough box is a total game-changer for homemade pizza enthusiasts. ICYMI, Chefs Table is back, with a twist...a PIZZA twist (*swoon*). Needless to say, we're pretty avid fans of a good pizza dough. So when we watched Chef Franco Pepe open his episode (Chef's Table: Pizza, EP 4) with his very own dough proofing box, we almost fainted. 🍕 If you've ever made your own pizza from scratch, you'll know that there are many factors that contribute to it's success: a good recipe, high-quality flour, plenty of time + patience, and the perfect conditions (temperature, humidity, etc…). You’re probably also already aware that the best way to ensure your pizza dough rises consistently and efficiently is by using a madia dough box (just like the pros) Keep reading for everything you need to know about madia pizza dough boxes and how to proof the *perfect* pizza dough! Dough Proofing? What’s That?? When it comes to bread making, “proofing” refers to the final rise that a ball of dough undergoes, which happens after being shaped into a loaf but before it’s baked. Fermentation and proofing are sometimes used interchangeably. The purpose of a dough proofer (aka proofing box, dough box, proofing oven or proofing cabinet) is to promote yeast fermentation by providing warm temperatures and controlled humidity. When the temperature is nice and warm, the yeast becomes more active, producing more carbon dioxide and resulting in a higher, faster rise. For most breads and other baked goods, the dough rises until almost doubled in size in the final proof and becomes light, fluffy, and jiggly. If you are a baker or if you make pizza dough, a madia dough box is an absolute necessity. It makes for the perfect proofing method for dough, ensuring a deliciously chewy dough. What is a Madia Dough Box? The madia ("maidda" in the Calabrian dialect) is a container made from a single block of wood, rectangular in shape, with raised edges, in which bread was kneaded in the Calabrian country houses. In the past making bread was a ritual that was repeated every 15 days; the head of the family went to the mill to buy the sack of flour that had to be freshly ground, while the youngest daughter had the task of taking the "crescente" (mother yeast) from the neighbor who had last made the bread. The mother yeast container was shared by all the families in the neighborhood, and over the years it went from house to house to keep its precious and delicate contents alive. Bread has always been one of the main foods on the tables of the Calabrian people and was used in many ways, as a symbol of a society with few, simple and genuine things. During the preparation of the loaves the kitchen became a battlefield. Once the process was finished, if everything had been well done, the madia dough box remained completely free of residue. The last step of the procedure involved baking the bread in the wood-fired oven. When it was not used to make dough, the madia dough box served as a container for bread and other foods. “Madia” means sideboard, and no one is really sure if it got its name because of its look, or because some Italians literally used their dough boxes as sideboards. The world may never know. A Madia dough box is also way better for the environment (as opposed to using plastic wrap or plastic bags) since you can use them over and over. (Cheers to #sustainability!) How to Take Care of Your Madia To keep your madia dough box clean and in working order for years to come, you’ll want to maintain it properly. When you're finished using it, simply brush it down with some warm water, or wipe it out with a clean cloth– but do not use detergent or cleaners. You don’t want to remove all of the delicious oils that will begin to collect over time. Madia dough boxes will age like a fine wine if properly taken care of. However, if you don’t clean it out well, mold will begin to grow. After it’s cleaned, make sure to leave your dough box out in open air to dry. IMPASTIAMO Madia Dough Box Our traditional wooden madia dough boxes are carefully crafted by expert artisans, and are perfect for traditionally kneading the flour in order to prepare small batches of dough (around four to five pounds). This is a sturdy, air-tight, and easy-to-use dough box that keeps the dough fresh and prevents crusting! The madia wood has not undergone any harmful treatment, and it is designed specifically to be used for food–which means that it’s also free of odors and chemicals that can alter the taste of your dough. A traditional madia will make the perfect addition to any kitchen, whether you're a seasoned chef or a newly-interested baker. In conclusion, the Madia pizza dough box is a must-have for anyone who loves homemade pizza. It's easy to use, versatile, and produces delicious results every time. It's a great addition to any home kitchen, and it's perfect for pizza lovers of all levels. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, the Madia pizza dough box will make your pizza-making experience more enjoyable and delicious! If you have any questions or would like to learn more about our handmade Madia boxes by VPN, feel free to contact us!

Pearl River Deli's owner and chef Johnny Lee shares a few recipes to celebrate Lunar New Year Pearl River Deli's owner and chef Johnny Lee shares a few recipes to celebrate Lunar New Year. Lee is a native Angeleno who has worked in the Los Angeles restaurant industry for over a decade. He has helped run local favorite concepts such as Sticky Rice, Eggslut, and Sidechick before opening his own Pearl River Deli. Pearl River Deli opened in Chinatown a few month before the pandemic and was quickly rated one of the most exciting restaurants to eat in Los Angeles (New York Times, June 2021). A strong focus on Asian cuisines approached with traditional techniques but taking into account modern ingredient sourcing defines his cooking style which he happily shares with his fellow Angelenos. Check out some of our favorite recipes from Chef Johnny Lee: CHICKEN AND MUSHROOM CLAYPOT RICE Photo Cred: Johnny Lee STEAMED RICE FLOUR CAKE Photo Cred: Johnny Lee CHICKEN AND SHRIMP SIU MAI Photo Cred: Getty Images