1/21, New Wave Italian, Part 1 - Demonstration
Location
About
Chef: Ric Orlando
Date: Thursday, January 21, 2027
Time: 6:00 PM–8:30 PM
What is New Wave Italian? Like New Wave Cinema in the 1960s and New Wave music in the early 1980s, New Wave Italian takes its cue from classic, beloved Italian and Italian-American cooking and then pushes gently beyond those boundaries. It honors the roots that made the originals so beloved—simple techniques, foregrounded ingredients, and a respect for seasonality—while welcoming experimentation, playful global influences, and contemporary presentation.
New Wave Italian is not textbook Italian, and it’s not strictly Italian-American. Instead, it reflects what’s actually happening in kitchens across Italy and around the world: cooks reinterpreting tradition with curiosity and restraint. Think bold pairings, unexpected textures, and modern techniques used to highlight, not overwhelm, the core flavors. At its heart is an Italian mindset: respect for every ingredient, no matter how humble. That reverence guides Ric Orlando’s approach—cooking with Italian passion, a dash of modern playfulness, and a commitment to keeping the essence of the dish intact. That balance of tradition and innovation is New Wave Italian.
Menu:
- Mozz’ in Carrozza: Crispy, golden-fried mozzarella sandwiches served with a bright, herbaceous dried tomato chimichurri.
- Baked Stuffed Clams with Pepperoni Rice: Tender clam shells stuffed with savory spiced pepperoni rice and herbs, baked until golden and fragrant.
- Sunflower Pesto Crusted Cod: Flaky cod topped with a crunchy sunflower seed pesto, served over sautéed broccoli rabe, giant white beans, garlic, and sweet roasted tomatoes.
- Black Mission Fig & Sunflower Seed Biscotti: Classic twice-baked Italian biscotti studded with sweet figs and toasted sunflower seeds, served alongside sweet Marsala wine for dipping.
Allergen/dietary notice: Dairy, gluten, pork, and seafood will be used in class. Gluten-free is available with five days’ advance notice.
About Ric: Chef Ric Orlando is a former rocker-turned-chef, best known for his New World Home Cooking restaurant. He is a cookbook author, radio personality, and former TV host. He is often referred to as “the pioneer of Hudson Valley farm-to-table.” More recipes and information on Italy travel, pop-ups, classes, and Ric’s product line can be found at ricorlando.com.