One More Way to Cook with Titina--Private Classes

Titina's popular Monday and Friday night cooking classes at Capri Flavors in Morrisville, NC are great for couples, individuals or smaller groups.  But if you want to celebrate with 10-18 people, consider booking a private class. 

Popular with businesses and families celebrating special occasions, private classes are a great way to bring people together for a fun, interactive and memorable evening.  This spring, there are four private class menus to choose from--each made up of favorite regional Italian dishes:

Private Class Menu I

Pasta alla Norma -
Pasta with Fried Eggplant
Maiale al Finocchio-
Pork Tenderloin with Fennel
Piselli al Prosciutto -
Spring Peas with Prosciutto
Torta Caprese -
Almond and Chocolate Cake

Private Class Menu II

Pasta e Fagioli
Pasta with Beans
Pollo alla Cacciatore
Chicken Cacciatore
Polenta con Rapini
Polenta with Broccoli Rabe
Tiramisu'
Classic Italian Dessert

Private Class Menu III

Spaghetti Crespati
Crispy Spaghetti
Melenzane alla Parmigiana
Eggplant Parmesan
Gamberetti e Fagioli Cannellini
Shrimp with white Beans
Affogato al Caffe Espresso
Espresso Drowned Ice Cream

Private Class Menu V

Orecchiette Con Broccoli di Rape
Pasta rings with Broccoli
Parmigiana di Melenzane
Eggplants Parmigiana
Portobello alla Caprese
Grilled Portobello with Caprese
Torta di Capri al Limoncello

Capri Cake with Limoncello

Titina's Private Classes Available on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday Evenings beginning at 6. Mid-day classes can also be arranged.

Minimum attendance is10 people

$60.00 per person (gratuity not included)

Call (919) 462-9255 or 919 749-3656 for more information

Or e-mail cvuotto@gmail.com and Capri Flavors will contact you within two business days.

New Cooking Class Menus for Spring and Summer 2012

From artichokes to eggplants; red meat to new seafood dishes--There's something for everyone in the latest Capri Flavors Cooking Class line up. 

Taught by acclaimed Italian chef, cookbook author, and Capri native,  Titina Vuotto, each class covers a complete meal from appetizer though dessert. 

Students help prepare the dishes, then enjoy the fruits of their labors around Titina's big Italian table. 

Classes are held Monday and Friday evenings, beginning at 6pm.  Students may bring wine, or purchase hand-selected Italian wines in the Capri Flavors retail store. 

Here are the new menus and dates:

Capri Menu
Gnocchi di Patate (Potato Dumplings)
Braciola al Ragu (Steaks with Gravy)
Rotolo di Melenzane (Rolls of Eggplants)
Torta di Capri al Limoncello (Capri Cake with Lemoncello)
Mondays: 4/16, 5/7, 6/4, 7/2
Fridays: 4/20, 5/11, 6/8

Sardegna Menu
Malloreddus Pasta con Salsiccia (Pasta Mallordeddus with sausages)
Cozze Gratinate (Mussel Gratin)
Carciofi alla Sarda (Sardinian Style Artichokes)
Sabadas (Ravioli with Honey)
Mondays: 4/23, 5/14, 6/11
Fridays: 5/18, 6/15

Sicilia Menu
Anelletti con Melenzane (Anelletti Pasta with Eggplants)
Sogliola al Basilico (Sole Flients with Basil)
Cavolofiore Gratinato (Cauliflower au Gratin)
Sfingi San Giuseppe (Saint Joseph's Cram Puffs)
Mondays: 4/30, 5/21. 6/18
Fridays: 5/4, 5/25, 6/22

Liguria Menu
Pappardelle ai Funghi (Pasta Pappardelle with Mushrooms)
Aragosta in Crema (Lobster in Cream)
Zucchine alla Menta (Fried Zucchine with Mint)
Crema Caramellata (Cream Caramel)
Mondays 5/7, 5/28, 6/25
Fridays: 5/11, 6/1. 6/29

For more info call, 919 749-3656 or book on-line at www.capriflavors.com

New Menus and a Great Gift Idea

You can have all the holiday sales on electronics and clothes--I'll take Capri, Rome, Parma, and Venice--the new line-up for Titina's cooking classes in 2012. 

Titina's classes make wonderful gifts. 

Buy a gift certificate for one or more classes and the lucky recipient gets to pick their dates and menus. 

This year, some great new dishes are featured in classes, like Salmon with Dried Mushrooms and Orange Tart, Capri Style. 

That means there's something for everyone, even (often) returning students like Kitchen Helper.
Cooking with Titina is an enjoyable evening out, plus a chance to learn techniques and recipes that cooks of all skill levels can take home and use again and again.  Now that's a wonderful gift!

Here's the complete line up, and for more info or to purchase on-line, go the Capri Flavors Website.  Click cooking classes and scroll down for full details.

CAPRI Menu
Limoncello

Bomboloni Capresi
Fritters Filled with prosciutto and Mozzarella

Salmone ai Funghi
Salmon with dried Mushroom

Torta all'Arancia
Orange Tart Capri Style

Roma Menu
Ravioli con Aragosta
Lobster Ravioli with "Siue'-Sciue'" Sauce

Saltinbocca alla Romana
Veal Slices with Prosciutto and Sage

Torta alla Caprese
Almonds and Chocolate Cake



PARMA Menu
Creppes al Formaggio
Cheese and Ham Filled Crepes

Parmigiana di Melenzane
Eggplant Parmisan

Zeppole di San Giuseppe
Saint Joseph Cream Puffs

VENEZIA Menu
Zuppa della Sposa
Wedding Soup

Sogliola alla Mugniaia
Sole Fish Meumiere

Nodi d'Amore
Love Knots

New Recipes & New Regions In Titina's Kitchen this Fall

Fall has begun in Titina's Capri Flavors kitchen with great menus for new and returning students. 

Featured are 3 of Italy's culinary capitals and Titina's home island, the lovely Capri, where she grew up in a famous family restaurant. 

From Bologna, the capital city of Emilia-Romagna, a signature lasagna, followed by a rich main dish typical of the sophisticated region:  Prosciutto and Peas with Quail.

From the seafaring capital of Genoa, classic basil pesto (called Genovese) on pasta, and Calamari with tomatoes. 

From the ancient city of Rome, food with ancient roots starting with a semolina dumpling  and ending with a cake made with dried fruits. 

And finally,  from one of the world's most beautiful islands, Capri,  a new menu featuring world-class seafood and citrus.

Students participate in the cooking and may bring or purchase wine to enjoy with the meal. 

Class sizes are very limited, (classes must fit around Titina's big Italian table), so book early. 

Full menus and dates are listed below. 

Bologna Menu
Lasagne alla Bolognese (Lasagne Bologna Style)
Piselli al Prosciutto con Quaglie (Prosciutto and Peas with Quails)
Insalata Mista (Mixed Salad)
Sorbetto al Limoncello (Sorbet with Lemoncello)
Mondays: 9/5, 10/3, 10/31, 11/28
Fridays: 9/9, 10/7, 11/14, 12/2

Genova Menu
Linguine al Pesto  (Linguine with Pesto Sauce)
Calamari alla Marinara  (Calamari “Marinara” Style)
Scarole Sautee’ (Escaroles Sautee’)
Torta della Nonna (Grand Mother Cake)
Mondays: 8/29, 9/26, 10/24, 11/21
Fridays: 9/2, 9/30, 10/28, 11/25

Roma Menu
Gnocchi di Semolina alla Romana (Semolino Gnocchi Roman Style)
Pollo Speziato al Curry (Chicken with Curry)
Cavolofiori  Sautee’ (Cauliflower Sautee’)
Crostata di Frutta Essiccata (Dry Fruits Cake)
Mondays: 8/22, 9/19, 10/17, 11/14
Fridays: 8/26,  9/23,  10/21, 11/18

CAPRI Menu
Limoncello
Gnocchi di Patate con Aragosta (Potato Gnocchi with Lobster)
Melenzane alla Parmigiana (Eggplants Parmigiana)
Orange Salad
Torta di Capri (Almond and Chocolate Cake)
Mondays: 8/15, 9/12, 10/10, 11/7
Fridays: 8/19, 9/16, 10/14, 11/11

Titina says Time to Pinch Back your Basil

It's high summer and Chef Titina is taking a break from her popular cooking classes until the 15th of August.  But that doesn't mean she's not cooking.  Lots of classic Italian summer dishes  are on the menu in Titina's Kitchen and many of them call for basil.

When it comes to this wonderful herb, Capri Flavors Chef Titina is a true master.  Descended from a long line of famous Capri chefs, she has always known, grown and cooked with basil. 

An easy-to-grow annual, basil completes its life cycle in a single season, growing, flowering and producing new seed before being killed by autumn frosts. 

Titina says the herb's flavor is at it's peak just before the plant flowers, so to extend the season, she regularly pinches the blossoms off.

If you're growing basil, start pinching now.  You'll enjoy the best flavor longer that way. 

Here are a  few more tips from Chef Titina for dealing with this wonderful herb: 

•  Home grown is best.  Titina tends basil plants in pots and her small but productive garden at the Capri Flavors retail store. 
• Basil likes warm temperatures, full sun, and lots of water.  Given those, it's really easy to grow. 
• Wash and dry at room temperature.  Titina cuts and washes  branches several hours before she plans to use them, then wraps in kitchen towels, which are left on the counter to dry. 
• Never refrigerate basil. 
• Finally, basil makes wonderful pesto.  Here's a link to instructions in an earlier post http://fromtitinaskitchen.blogspot.com/2010/09/last-taste-of-summer-from-titinas.html. 
• Or grind basil in the food processor and mix with olive oil.  Freeze it jars to preserve the taste of summer all year long. 

Big Rewards from Titina's Small Garden

You don't need a lot of space to grow a great summer vegetable garden. 

In Capri Flavors Chef Titina's little garden--lots of flavor for her upcoming cooking classes. 

Basil, of course.  Titina will harvest and chop this classic Italian herb for bruschetta, the wonderful appetizer she uses as a starter, sometimes served with fresh peach Bellinis on the side.

And more than half the bed is rimmed with zucchini squash.  Titina will let some grow to maturity, but fried squash blossoms are an Italian delicacy.  Look for it on the menu in as the weather warms. 

Note:  The chef's husband Costanzo reports that classes are going well.  A limited number of  seats remain for the current schedule.  Check the web site or give them a call.  919-462-9255

Discover one of the World's most Beautiful Destinations--

Check out the latest issue of Smithsonian Magazine for a stunning look at
Chef Titina's home island of Capri. http://www.smithsonianmag.com/travel/The-Lure-of-Capri.html

Great insight into this tiny rock in the Bay of Naples that has played host to Roman Emperors, Russian revolutionaries, and movie stars like Kurt Douglas and Brigitte Bardot.

And for a taste of the island, check out Titina's  Sping Capri Menu .
It features local specialties like Lobster in Red Sauce and her husband Costanzo's favorite, Pasta with Zucchine.

Each 5 course meal is prepared by students in Titna's large kitchen classroom. Then everyone eats, talks and laughs around her her big Italian table. Ask Costanzo to tell you the story of Capri- Lenin link. Fascinating. 

Here's Titina's Spring Class Schedule. For more info call 919 462-9255.

AMALFI Menu

Linguine con Calamari    Linguine with Calamari
Pollo alla Cacciatora    Chicken Cacciatora
Cavolofiore Stufato    Cauliflower Saute
Crema Caramellata   Creme Caramel

Amalfi Dates
Monday:5/16, 6/13, 7/11,
Friday: 5/20, 6/17, 7/15,

NAPOLI Menu

Spaghetti “Sciue’-Sciue’”    Spaghetti in Cherry Tomatoe Sauce
Aragosta Marinara      Lobster in red Sauce
Peperoni Saltati      Bell Peppers Saute’
Insalata di Arance      Orange Salad

Napoli Dates
Monday: 5/2 , 5/30, 6/27,
Friday: 5/6, 6/3, 7/1,

CAPRI Menu

Penne alle Zucchine    Pasta with Zucchine
Aragosta Marinara     Lobster in red Sauce
Melenzane alla Parmigiana     Eggplant Parmigiana
Torta di Capri    Almond and Chocolate Cake

Capri Dates
Monday: 4/25, 5/23, 6/20,
Friday: 4/29, 5/27, 6/24,

SORRENTO Menu

Gnocchi al Ragu'  Gnocchi in Meat Sauce
Infltini     Barciole
Crocchette di Patate  Potato Croquettes
Tiramisu
Sorrento Dates
Monday: 5/9, 6/6, 7/4,,
Friday: 5/13 6/10, 7/8,

Spring Classes in Titina's Kitchen

The new schedule is in!  April 3 til July 14, Let's Cook with Titina offers four rotating menus based on cooking class favorites:
Lobster, Calamari, Tiramisu--all the Southern Italian classics are in Titina's  Spring Class Schedule--

So dine out in Capri, Napoli, Sorrento or Almafi--without leaving the triangle.

But book early.  Titina's classes have been setting records since last fall fall.    Lots of students, lots of gift certificates and lots of feedback from happy customers who say they can't wait to book another class.

Call Capri Flavors  (919-462-9255) or sign up on line to enjoy a great night out Cooking with Titina at Capri Flavors

SORRENTO Menu
Gnocchi al Ragu’    Gnocchi in Meat Sauce
Involtini      Braciole
Crocchette di Patate     Potatoes Croquettes
Tiramisu’

Sorrento Dates
Monday: 5/9, 6/6, 7/4,,
Friday: 5/13 6/10, 7/8,

AMALFI Menu
Linguine con Calamari    Linguine with Calamari
Pollo alla Cacciatora    Chicken Cacciatora
Cavolofiore Stufato    Cauliflower Saute
Crema Caramellata   Creme Caramel

Amalfi Dates
Monday:5/16, 6/13, 7/11,
Friday: 5/20, 6/17, 7/15,

NAPOLI Menu
Spaghetti “Sciue’-Sciue’”    Spaghetti in Cherry Tomatoe Sauce
Aragosta Marinara      Lobster in red Sauce
Peperoni Saltati      Bell Peppers Saute’
Insalata di Arance      Orange Salad

Napoli Dates
Monday: 5/2 , 5/30, 6/27,
Friday: 5/6, 6/3, 7/1,

CAPRI Menu
Penne alle Zucchine    Pasta with Zucchine
Aragosta Marinara     Lobster in red Sauce
Melenzane alla Parmigiana     Eggplant Parmigiana
Torta di Capri    Almond and Chocolate Cake

Capri Dates
Monday: 4/25, 5/23, 6/20,
Friday: 4/29, 5/27, 6/24,

Better Salads--Titina Style

Simple and fresh are the rules in Titina's kitchen. She would never use bottled dressings or pre-made flavor mixes.    So if a salad is on the menu, her students learn to dress it with good  extra virgin oil and vinegar--Italian style. 

Dressing fresh greens is a basic cooking skill.  No recipe is required, but the salad should also be dressed and tossed in the SAME ORDER and always right before serving. 

1) Add  olive oil  to washed and dried greens and toss until leaves glisten

2) Toss in sea salt to taste

3) Add fresh ground pepper

4) Finish with a light splash of vinegar.  Villa Vittora White Balsamic and Vesuvto Vinegar are two popular options sold in the Capri Flavors retail store.   

Fresh citrus, which is in season now, can also be used with or instead of the vinegar.  If Titina has a lot lemons, left over from Lemoncello for example, she will use them to dress salads and make lemon sorbet

Another use for seasonal citrus--add peeled orange rounds  (and their juice) to a combination of  fresh greens, sliced grape tomatoes and  red onions.  Bright colors and flavors for a winter's day. 

For more on Titina's winter cooking classes,  check the menus and dates below.  Along with the dishes listed, each class also includes an appetizer, drinks and sometimes a salad.

CAPRI Menu


Limoncello (Lemon Liquor )

Ravioli “Sciue’-Sciue’” (Ravioli with Cherry Tomato Sauce )

Aragosta Marinara (Lobster in Red Sauce)

Torta di Capri (Almond and Chocolate Cake)

Mondays: 1/3, 1/31, 2/28, 3/28

Fridays: 1/7, 2/4, 3/4, 4/1





ALBEROBELLO Menu

Orecchiette con Rapini (Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli Rape)

Pollo Speziato (Chicken in Apple Sauce)

Piselli al Prosciutto (Green Peas with Prosciutto)

Kodi' d' Amore (Love Knots)

Mondays: 1/10, 2/7, 3/7, 4/4

Fridays: 1/14, 2/11, 3/11, 4/8





NAPOLI Menu

Penne “Aum-Aum !” (Pasta with Eggplants)

Maiale al Finocchio (Pork Tenderloin with Fennel)

Pizza Rustica (Pie with Cheese and Salame)

Pastiera Napoletana (Grain and Ricotta Pie)

Mondays: 1/17, 2/14, 3/14, 4/11

Fridays: 1/21, 2/18, 3/18, 4/13





BELLAGIO Menu

Gnocchi delle Langhe (Spinach Gnocchi with Robiola)

Vitello al Vin Santo (Veal with Vin Santo)

Cavolofiore Stufato (Cauliflower with Raisins)

Pere al Vino (Pears and Wine)

Mondays: 1/24, 2/21, 3/21

Fridays: 1/28. 2/25, 3/25



For more information call 919 462-9255

or enroll online at http://www.capriflavors.com/

Need a Special Business Lunch? Cook with Titina

Lots of private classes in Titina's kitchen recently--many at lunchtime.  Cooking together is a great way for office teams to celebrate, bond or entertain a special guest.  It builds relationships and memories that you just can't get ordering off a restaurant  menu. 

There are three private class menus to choose from, each made up of Titina's classroom favorites and featuring fresh-from-scratch, classic Italian dishes. 
Here's a sample, followed by one of her most popular side dish  recipes that's easy enough for anyone to make to at home-- Peas with Prosciutto

Private Class Menu #1

Pasta alla Norma- Pasta with Eggplants

Maiale al Finocchio- Pork Tenderloin with Fennel


Piselli al Prosciutto- Peas with Prosciutto


Torta Caprese Almond- and Chocolate Cake

________________________________________

Titina's recipe:  Peas with Prosciutto

Ingredients:

1 ½ lb (750 g) fresh or frozen peas

4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 ½ cups (12 oz/350 g) prosciutto, diced; or pancetta

2 large cloves garlic, finely chopped; or ¼ cup

onion, chopped

1 cup (8 fl oz/250 ml) water & 1 cube beef

bouillon

3 tablespoons parsley, finely chopped

salt and freshly ground black pepper



Sauté the prosciutto in the oil in a large skillet

(frying pan) for 5 minutes. Remove from heat. Let

the oil cool, and then add the peas, garlic, parsley,

and water with the added beef bouillon. Partially

cover and simmer for about 15 minutes. Season

with salt, pepper and chopped parsley.



Serves: 4;

Preparation Time: 15 minutes;

cooking time: 25 minutes

Level of Difficulty: simple

A Busy New Year in Titina's Kitchen--

Gift cards for Titina's cooking classes were a hot item this holiday season.  So much so that they ran out of the plastic ones in the Capri Flavors retail store and had to go to paper.

But there are still spaces available in the Winter Classes, even those around  Valentine's Day. 

More than dinner out--Capri Flavors Chef Titina Vuotto's cooking classes are an interactive, fun and memorable evening.   Students of all skill levels prepare a multi-course meal together, then sit around the big kitchen table and enjoy it family style. 

Make that-- Italian Family Style--which means lingering at the table, talking and laughing into the night.

In the words of a recent student:

                       "The food and fellowship were fantastic.  My wife and I could
                        picture ourselves at the home of friends in Italy enjoying a
                        festive meal."

To eat more like an Italian at your home, make an evening of it.  Begin with Titina's easy bruschetta or good bread and Capri Flavors Olive Oil. 
End with Cappuccino or Espresso and a little iced Lemoncello.  The food can be simple, but the conversation must be lively.  Enjoy. 

Here's the appetizer  recipe, followed by Titina's Winter Class Schedule--

Titina's Classic Bruschetta

• Slice a baguette into 1/2 inch pieces and toast them in a 350 degree oven for about 10 minutes
• Finely chop grape tomatoes and fresh basil  leaves (which have been washed and dried wrapped in kitchen towels)
• Mince or press 2-3 cloves of garlic (Titina uses a nifty and inexpensive garlic press that Capri Flavors sells)
• Combine tomatoes, herbs, and dress with salt and pepper and lots of olive oil   
• Then spoon over crispy bread and serve. "Lots of oil, little tomato", says Titina

Like most classic Italian food, it is a simple dish that relies on the best ingredients. Enjoy.


Let's Cook with Titina--Winter 2011

CAPRI Menu


Limoncello (Lemon Liquor )

Ravioli “Sciue’-Sciue’” (Ravioli with Cherry Tomato Sauce )

Aragosta Marinara (Lobster in Red Sauce)

Torta di Capri (Almond and Chocolate Cake)

Mondays: 1/3, 1/31, 2/28, 3/28
Fridays: 1/7, 2/4, 3/4, 4/1


ALBEROBELLO Menu

Orecchiette con Rapini (Orecchiette Pasta with Broccoli Rape)

Pollo Speziato (Chicken in Apple Sauce)

Piselli al Prosciutto (Green Peas with Prosciutto)

Kodi' d' Amore (Love Knots)

Mondays: 1/10, 2/7, 3/7, 4/4
Fridays: 1/14, 2/11, 3/11, 4/8



NAPOLI Menu

Penne “Aum-Aum !” (Pasta with Eggplants)

Maiale al Finocchio (Pork Tenderloin with Fennel)

Pizza Rustica (Pie with Cheese and Salame)

Pastiera Napoletana (Grain and Ricotta Pie)

Mondays: 1/17, 2/14, 3/14, 4/11
Fridays: 1/21, 2/18, 3/18, 4/13



BELLAGIO Menu

Gnocchi delle Langhe (Spinach Gnocchi with Robiola)

Vitello al Vin Santo (Veal with Vin Santo)

Cavolofiore Stufato (Cauliflower with Raisins)

Pere al Vino (Pears and Wine)

Mondays: 1/24, 2/21, 3/21
Fridays: 1/28. 2/25, 3/25



For more information call 919 462-9255

                     

New Life for Last Night's Risotto--Arancine from Titina's Kitchen

Chef Titina's students enjoy themselves in her cooking classes.  The food is gourmet, the conversation is lively.  Students linger around the big Italian table and there are usually very few leftovers from the delicious 5 course meal everyone helps prepare.   But on those rare occasions when everything isn't eaten...Titina upcycles.

Like most great Italian cooks, she respects her ingredients and  never wastes them.  So last Monday night's risotto became Tuesday's lovely Arancine.  The name means "little oranges" and it perfectly describes  these golden-fried, stuffed rice balls from Sicily. 

"Stuff them with what you like," Titina says.  Ground beef and peas are very popular, also peas and mozzarella, or mozzarella and ham. 

The process is simple.  Titina doesn't use a recipe. 

First--she combines risotto with egg yoke.

Forms balls in her hand, around filling.  (Just hunks of buffalo mozzarella on Tuesday)

Dips in egg white

Rolls in bread crumbs

Fries in Olive Oil

Here's a link to a recipe on another blog that has some great pictures of the process: http://www.othersideoffifty.com/2009/10/risotto-balls-arancini.htm

And for Titina's Fall menus and classes click here--Let's Cook with Titina

Busy Days in Titina's Kitchen

August was a banner month for Titina's popular cooking classes.  An  accomplished Italian chef and native of Capri, she set a record--bringing more students into her Morrisville, NC  kitchen than ever before.

Private classes were the the tipping point.  As sales and projects pick up, local companies are once again using "Let's cook with Titina" as a fun way to build teams, energize staff and clients. 

When the busy chef needs a burst of energy between classes, Titina reaches for one of the fine whole wheat Italian pastas Capri Flavors sells and makes this quick and easy sauce.  Sciue-Sciue has long been a staple in her kitchen. 

The version below is reprinted from the recipe book  “Red ,White and Greens” by Faith Willinger who learned to make this dish in Titina's Capri Kitchen. 




Titina's Move It! (Sciue'- Sciue') Pasta


For 4-6 Servings First Course

Titina and Costanzo Vuotto own the Restaurant Le Sirene on Capri and Titina is one of the island's best cooks. She prepares lunch next to the sea in the summer and taught me to make sciue'-sciue' pasta, easier to prepare than pronounce (say shoo-AYE shoo-AYE). It's regional dialect, a slang expression to accelerate movement in an area known for its languid Mediterranean pace. Local cherry tomatoes packed with flavor called pomodorini di spugnito are hurried into a sauce with garlic, cooked with al dente spaghetti, sprinkled with a fistful of fragrant basil. A cerasiéllo, red hot cherry pepper, sometimes makes sciue'sciue' pasta even livelier.

5-6 quarts water

2-3 tablespoons salt plus fine sea salt

14-16 ounces spaghetti “La Caprese” 2 garlic cloves

1 small hot red pepper or chili pepper flakes to taste

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil “La Caprese”

1 pound cherry tomatoes “La Caprese” 3-4 tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh basil
1 Bring 5-6 quarts of water to a rolling boil. Add 2-3 tablespoons salt and the spaghetti and cook until it still offers considerable resistance to the tooth, about three quarters of the cooking time.
2 While the pasta is cooking, sauté the garlic cloves and hot pepper in the oil over moderate heat in a large nonstick skillet. When the garlic barely begins to color add the cherry tomatoes and season lightly with the sea salt. Cook over high heat until the tomatoes loose their shape.

3 Drain the spaghetti and add it to the skillet along with 1 cup of pasta cooking water.
Cook over high heat, stirring frequently, to amalgamate the tomatoes and pasta and to complete cooking. Add more pasta water if the sauce gets too dry.

4 Sprinkle with chopped basil before saving.


--If you'd like to join one of Titina's classes, book on-line or call 919 462-9255 for more information or to discuss private classes. 

Fragile, Delicious, and Very Italian--Titina's Homegrown Figs

This week in Titina's kitchen, figs are in season--and Titina loves this fruit.

She she has two fig trees--one in her herb garden at Capri Flavors retail store--another beside her home.

If you're lucky, you might find some of her homegrown figs for sale in the store.

Ripe figs must be handled very gently. She packs them on leaves in plastic containers.

How should you eat figs? Wash, dry and slice in half

A plate of figs makes a nice finish to meal, especially with salty cheeses.

Lots of recipes combine figs with balsamic--but fig Vincotto is a more common Italian choice.

If you've never tried Vincotto, don't wait any longer to sample this line of sweet grape must products. They enhance so many things. There's nothing like them in the states.

Titina's favorite way to sever her figs is as a starter. Ripe figs and prosciutto make a perfect summer antipasti. Simple, delicious and elegant, it's a classic Italian combo.

Or you get a little more complicated. In this recipe from Epicurious, figs and prosciutto become a pizza topping. http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Pizza-with-Figs-Prosciutto-Gorgonzola-Balsamic-and-Arugula-354313

But ripe figs really need nothing. It's one of the lessons Titina teaches her cooking class students-

Always use the best ingredients, and let them shine--

Make Friends with a Farmer--And Titina's New Class Schedule

Freshness matters in Titina's kitchen. It matters a lot. And while she may have a month off from classes, that doesn't mean Titina isn't cooking. Titina is always cooking. Lined up on the kitchen counter yesterday--pounds of heirloom tomatoes and three fresh melons, all off a local farm.

Not farm stand or farmer's market-Titina has a relationship with a local farmer who picks her produce right from the fields. He's a good friend to have--because summer vegetables start losing flavor as soon as they are harvested.

The farmer grows peaches too. Titina will freeze these juicy summer fruits in vacuum packs to use through out the year in her popular cooking classes--which resume in August.

Let's Cook with Titina menus and dates follow--plus a cool-off recipe for summer--from this fall's Sorrento Menu, Ice Cream Drowned Espresso

CAPRI Menu

Limoncello Lemon Liquor

Spaghetti Sciue’-Sciue’ Spaghetti in Marinara

Aragosta Marinara Lobster in Red Sauce

Carciofi e Patate Artichoke and Potato Saute

Torta di Capri Almond and Chocolate Cake

Capri Dates Monday: 8/2, 8/30, 9/27, 10/27 Friday: 8/6, 9/3, 10/1, 10/29

Firenze Menu

Crespelle al Formaggio e Prosciutto Cheese and Ham filled Crepes

Pollo al Finocchio Chicken with Fennel

Cavolofiori Gratinati Cauliflower Au Gratin

Torta della Nonna Grandmother Apple Cake

Firenze Dates Monday: 8/16, 9/13, 10/11, 11/8, Friday: 8/20, 9/17, 10/15, 11/12

Genova Menu

Penne alla Genovese Penne with Genovese Sauce

Filetto di Manzo alle Castagne Fillet of Beef with Chestnuts

Piselli al Prosciutto Peas with Prosciutto

Crema Caramellata Cream Caramel

Genova Dates Monday: 8/23, 9/20, 10/18, 11/15 Friday: 8/27, 9/24, 10/22, 11/19

Sorrento Menu

Gnocchi con Ragu’ Gnocchi in Heavy Sauce

Braciole al Ragu’ Beef Rolls in Heavy Sauce

Cannellini e Scarole Cannellini Beans and Escarole Saute’

Affogato al Caffe’ Espresso Espresso Drowned Ice Cream

Sorrento Dates Monday: 8/9, 9/6, 10/4, 11/1 Friday: 8/13, 9/10, 10/8, 11/5

Affogato al Caffe Espresso
Ice Cream drowned in Espresso

4 eggs, separated
4 ounces icing sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon vanilla essence
½ pint double cream, whipped
Espresso
cognac or brandy


Serves 8; Preparation: 30 minutes; Cooking: 20 minutes; Level of Difficulty: Medium


Whisk the egg whites until stiff in a bowl. Add the icing sugar, one tablespoon at a time, whisking well after each addition. Whisk in the egg yolks one at a time with the vanilla essence.

Carefully fold in the cream.

Pour the mixture into a large container or into 8 small dishes. Cover and freeze until firm. If frozen in a large container, transfer to the refrigerator about 15 minutes before serving and scoop round balls of ice cream into serving bowls. Top with espresso mixed with cognac or brandy.

Cooking Tips from Titina--The Right Way to "Brown"

Capri Flavors Chef Titina grew up in a restaurant kitchen--but most of her student's weren't so lucky. In fact, many who sign up for Titina's popular cooking classes have little experience beyond the microwave.



No problem. Titina makes cooking easy, teaching basic skills in a fun, relaxed, group setting.

Browning meat is one of those skills. Many of her best recipes call for this step like the Pollo al Curry from this week's Sicilian menu.



Here's how Titina teaches her students to brown like restaurant pros.

1. First use a large, shallow pan.



2. Add plenty of good olive oil. (Titina has her own label, fresh from Italy) Don't skimp here. Olive oil has no cholesterol but plenty of healthy antioxidants. It's a healthy choice.



3. You also need heat. Don't be afraid to get the oil hot on medium-high to high heat. Watch the pan and don't walk away. The oil should look glassy, but not smoking. The meat should sizzle when you (carefully) add it to the pan.



4. When browning chicken, Titina always starts with skin side down. Then give the meat a little time before turning. Resist the temptation to peek. Ideally, you will turn only once.



5. Another important tip--don't crowd the pan. Titina always browns in batches then returns all the browned pieces to the pan for a simmer with the sauce.

Here's the rest of this week's menu from the island of Sicily--Plus Titina's upcoming menus for the rest of May and June

SICILIA Menu
May 17, 21--June 14, 18

Anellini con Melenzane (Anellini with Eggplant)

Pollo al Curry (Chicken Curry)Piselli al Prosciutto

(Peas with Prosciutto)

San Giuseppe Zeppole (Saint Joseph Cream Puffs)

SARDEGNA Menu
May 24, 28--June 21, 25

Malloreddus Con Dalsiccia (Malloreddus with Sausage)

Cozze Gratinate (Mussels au Gratin)Carciofi alla Sarda

(Sardinian Artichokes)

Sabadas’ (Ravioli with Honey)

PIEMONTE Menu
June 7, 12

Pasta e Cannellini (Cannellini Beans with Pasta)

Roast-Beef con le Castagne (Roast Beef with Chestnuts)

Fava alla Piemontese (Piemontese Fava Beans)

Nodi D’Amore (Love Knots)

CAPRI Menu
May 31--June 4

Limoncello (Lemon Liquor)

Suffle di Formaggio (Cheese Souffle)

Aragosta alla Crema (Lobster in Cream Sauce)

Radicchio al Parmigiano (Radicchio with Parmesan)

Torta di Capri al Limoncello (Capri Cake with Limoncello)

Start with Bellinis

Class always starts with a cocktail. It's one of the joys of cooking with Titina. Students sit around the long bar in Titina's kitchen, put on their name tags and enjoy one of Titina's homemade drinks. It's an ice-breaker, a way to shed their nervousness and ease into a fun evening.

A whiskey sour, Sangria with fresh fruit or a Bloody Mary made with her own San Marzano tomatoes--Titina's drinks, like her meals, are all made from scratch with the best ingredients. And they are delicious.

One of her most popular drinks is the Bellini. Titina vacuum packs and freezes local peaches to make this golden concoction from Venice.

And right now, back in Southern Italy where she and her husband Costanzo grew up, peaches are coming into season.

“Albicocche Vesuviani, vesuvian peaches are very popular, and will be ready to eat by the end of this month," reports Francesca from outside of Naples. Francesca is married to the President of the Agrigenus co-op, a group of 9 Italian farmers who grow the heirloom San Marzano tomatoes for Titina's own label.

Francesca says spring weather in Southern Italy has been up and down this year. They hope summer will take hold soon so the peaches and tomatoes will be sweet.

In honor of Francesca's wishes for warmer weather and the ripening peaches of Italy, here's Titina's method for making delicious Bellinis and bringing people together to share the joys of good food.

3 ripe white peaches peeled and pureed in the food processor
Mixed with one bottle very cold Procecco (Italian champagne) and enjoy!!

Titina's spring cooking classes run for several more weeks. Menus and dates follow. Private classes are also available.

SICILIA Menu

April 19, 23--May 17, 21--June 14, 18
Anellini con Melenzane (Anellini with Eggplant)
Pollo al Curry (Chicken Curry)
Piselli al Prosciutto (Peas with Prosciutto)
San Giuseppe Zeppole (Saint Joseph Cream Puffs)

SARDEGNA Menu

April 26, 30--May 24, 28--June 21, 25
Malloreddus Con Dalsiccia (Malloreddus with Sausage)
Cozze Gratinate (Mussels au Gratin)
Carciofi alla Sarda (Sardinian Artichokes)
Sabadas’ (Ravioli with Honey)

PIEMONTE Menu

April 12, 16--May 10, 14--June 7, 1
Pasta e Cannellini (Cannellini Beans with Pasta)
Roast-Beef con le Castagne (Roast Beef with Chestnuts)
Fava alla Piemontese (Piemontese Fava Beans)
Nodi D’Amore (Love Knots)

CAPRI Menu

April 5, 9--May 3, 7, 31--June 4
Limoncello (Lemon Liquor)
Suffle di Formaggio (Cheese Souffle)
Aragosta alla Crema (Lobster in Cream Sauce)
Radicchio al Parmigiano (Radicchio with Parmesan)
Torta di Capri al Limoncello (Capri Cake with Limoncello)

Titina Returns to the Kitchen

Fresh from hip replacement surgery but feeling better everyday--Capri Flavors Chef Titina Vuotto has decided to resume her popular cooking classes on Monday April 5. Gift card holders and long-time students who have waited so patiently can go to capriflavors.com or call 919 462-9255 to book their spots.



Classes are very hands-on. Students of all skill levels chop, kneed, and saute under Titina's watchful eye. Then everyone enjoys the fruits of their labors around Titina's big Italian table.



Students may bring wine to enjoy with the meal, or purchase bottles of Italian wine in the Capri Flavors retail store.



Classes are scheduled on Mondays and Fridays beginning at 6 pm. Menus and dates are listed below



Titina and her husband Costanzo would like to thank everyone for their good thoughts and get well wishes during her recent surgery and recovery. They appreciate your patience and look forward to seeing you soon.

SICILIA Menu April 19, 23--May 17, 21--June 14, 18

Anellini con Melenzane (Anellini with Eggplant)

Pollo al Curry (Chicken Curry)

Piselli al Prosciutto (Peas with Prosciutto)

San Giuseppe Zeppole (Saint Joseph Cream Puffs)

SARDEGNA Menu April 26, 30--May 24, 28--June 21, 25

Malloreddus Con Dalsiccia (Malloreddus with Sausage)

Cozze Gratinate (Mussels au Gratin)

Carciofi alla Sarda (Sardinian Artichokes)

Sabadas’ (Ravioli with Honey)

PIEMONTE Menu April 12, 16--May 10, 14--June 7, 1

Pasta e Cannellini (Cannellini Beans with Pasta)

Roast-Beef con le Castagne (Roast Beef with Chestnuts)

Fava alla Piemontese (Piemontese Fava Beans)

Nodi D’Amore (Love Knots)

CAPRI Menu April 5, 9--May 3, 7, 31--June 4

Limoncello (Lemon Liquor)

Suffle di Formaggio (Cheese Souffle)

Aragosta alla Crema (Lobster in Cream Sauce)

Radicchio al Parmigiano (Radicchio with Parmesan)

Torta di Capri al Limoncello (Capri Cake with Limoncello)

Chef Titina Out of the Hospital

She's not back in her Capri Flavors kitchen yet--but she is smiling again.

All signs are positive after Titina's joint replacement surgery and she is now recovering at home.

Husband Costanzo says she's feeling well and very upbeat about her rehab--

Titina expects to resume teaching her popular Italian cooking classes in late winter. It's too soon for an exact date...but we'll keep her students posted.

In the meantime, here's a kitchen staple that shows up in many of Titina's classes. Carote alla Scapece (translated boiled carrots with white wine vinegar) is a super-versatile side dish that is best when made ahead. It's usually sitting on the table when students arrive. In cooler months Titina like to serve it at room temperature.

Carote alla Scapece (boiled carrots with white wine vinegar)

Ingredients:

Carrots

Salt

White Wine Vinegar

Chopped garlic

Chopped basil

Chopped mint

Dry oregano

Chopped Parsley

Hot Pepper to taste (optional)

Boil carrots in lightly salted water until they are al dente. Drain well. While carrots are still warm add vinegar and seasonings. Mix well, cover and refrigerate. Best served cold or room temperature one day to one week after preparation.

Titina's Sardinian Menu plus a Bonus Recipe

Sardinia is dramatic, ancient and beautiful. The second largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, this meeting of rugged mountains and blue water is one of the oldest inhabited lands in Europe.

It is famous for its wines. The island is also known for a hearty shepherd's flat bread, fresh, light seafood, lamb and sheep-milk cheeses.

Fregola is another Sardinian specialty. Called the couscous of Sardinia, this tiny semolina pasta was hardly known and hard to find in American until Giadia DeLaurentiis featured fregola on her popular Food Network show. Capri Flavors sold out almost over night. (They have since restocked)

A Fregola recipe from the Capri Flavors e-newsletter follows (sign up at http://www.capriflavors.com). Chef Titina's Sardinian menu along with her full Winter Class Schedule are also listed below.

Her Sardinian primi or first course features another unusual pasta--this time with sausage. Mussels follow and if you've ever wanted to know how to cook artichokes, this is your chance. A sweet ravioli rounds out the meal.

SARDEGNA Menu
Malloreddus Con Dalsiccia (Malloreddus with Sausage)
Cozze Gratinate (Mussels au Gratin)
Carciofi alla Sarda (Sardinian Artichokes)
Sabadas’ (Ravioli with Honey)

PIEMONTE Menu
Pasta e Cannellini (Cannellini Beans with Pasta)
Roast-Beef con le Castagne (Roast Beef with Chestnuts)
Fava alla Piemontese (Piemontese Fava Beans)
Nodi D’Amore (Love Knots)

CAPRI Menu
Limoncello (Lemon Liquor)
Suffle di Formaggio (Cheese Souffle)
Aragosta alla Crema (Lobster in Cream Sauce)
Radicchio al Parmigiano (Radicchio with Parmesan)
Torta di Capri al Limoncello (Capri Cake with Limoncello)

SICILIA Menu
Anellini con Melenzane (Anellini with Eggplant)
Pollo al Curry (Chicken Curry)
Piselli al Prosciutto (Peas with Prosciutto)
San Giuseppe Zeppole (Saint Joseph Cream Puffs)

Capri Dates--Monday: 1/4, 2/15, 3/1-- Friday: 1/8, 2/5, 3/5
Sicilia Dates--Monday: 1/18, 2/15, 3/15-- Friday: 1/22, 2/19, 3/19
Sardegna Dates-- Monday: 1/25, 2/22, 3/22--Friday: 1/29, 2/26, 3/26
Piemonte Dates--Monday: 1/11, 2//8, 3/8--Friday: 1/15, 2/12, 3/12

Fregola with Shrimp and Tomatoes

Ingredients:

1 pound Fregola pasta from Capri Flavors
2 Knorr Chicken bouillon cubes
½ onion diced
3 cloves of garlic, diced
A pinch of red pepper flakes
1 can (28 oz) Titina’s Tomatoes from Capri Flavors
½ cup dry sherry
¼ cup chopped parsley
2 pounds of shrimp, peeled and deveined
Salt, pepper and olive oil

Heat olive oil over medium heat and cook onion until soft. Add red pepper flakes, garlic and sherry. Cook until blended and fragrant. Add tomatoes, breaking up with your spoon. Return to a boil. Add half the parsley and reduce heat. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper

Fill a large pot with water and add the bouillon cubes. Boil until cubes have dissolved, then slowly add the Fergola and cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes. Meanwhile add the shrimp to the tomato sauce and simmer until just pink and firm. Remove from heat. (They will continue to cook in the hot sauce)

Drain cooked pasta, toss with more olive oil and the remaining parsley. Pour shrimp and tomato sauce over. Stir and serve.