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Chef Ed Brings a Taste of Italy to Des Plaines

The Des Plaines Park District hosted the first of four Fall Cooking Classes with Chef Ed on Thursday, October 3. Chef Ed prepared a four course Italian Gourmet Meal including a classic bruschetta appetizer; a caprese salad; two entrees: spaghetti with Picchio Pacchio Sauce and Penne alla Giambotta; and Biscotti Regina for desert. The hands-on cooking classes are designed for the home cook looking to increase their culinary skills and recipe portfolio, and the more advanced foodie interested in new twists on old favorites. “Chef Ed's style of teaching is very accessible,” said Karyn Roth Recreation Supervisor “He is relaxed, encouraging, and eager to share his vast knowledge with the class. He has years of experience catering weddings and corporate events, and cooking for private parties.”

In addition to making the recipes for the class, Chef Ed demonstrated basic cooking techniques including how to cut and chop fresh vegetables, the use of fresh spices and olive oils, and how to choose the right cuts of chicken for a recipe. “Cooking should be fun, creative, and enjoyable,” said Chef Ed. “My recipes are designed to be customized to your family's tastes and preferences. You can add a little more or less garlic, or a little more or less heat, and still have a delicious, authentic Italian meal.”

Classes take place in the kitchen at Prairie Lakes Community Center, 515, E. Thacker Street on Thursday nights from 6:30-8:30pm. The schedule for fall includes Soups and Stews on October 24, Thanksgiving with Flair on November 14, and Holiday Cookies and Biscotti on December 5. Registration is required Recipes made in each class are posted on the Des Plaines Park District website, www.DPParks.org after the class. For more information call 847-391-5700.

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