Students Immerse in Italian Language and Food at Cooking Class

Ms. Mellace, Mrs. Scaldaferri and Ms. Visceglie’s Pre-AP, AP and Level V Italian classes participated in an authentic Italian cooking class at The Cooking Lab in Port Washington.

During the workshop, students explored the beauty of the Italian language and culture through Italy’s rich culinary history. They rolled up their sleeves to prepare Polpette alla Fiorentina—those tasty ground beef and potato croquettes—and some fabulous Bruschetta! The class was a full-immersion experience as it was taught predominantly in Italian, requiring students to utilize the interpretive language skills they’ve honed in class.

After preparing, cooking, and enjoying their dishes, students were able to chat with cooking instructor and owner Michelle Capobianco in Italian! They interviewed her about her cooking journey, what sparked the idea of opening a cooking lab, and how to become an entrepreneur. It was truly an enriching experience that allowed students to connect with Italian beyond the classroom.

Students were thrilled to share their feelings on on the experience:

The trip was very fun and educational and I believe my Italian skills improved a lot because of it. I learned a lot of new vocabulary related to the kitchen, and this trip also made my fondness for cooking grow.

-Katherine A.

I had a lot of fun at the Cooking Lab. Preparing a dish by myself was a gratifying experience, and the final product was absolutely delicious. It was great to be able to take time from my day to spend time near other Italian students, especially those within the AP class. Some of their interview questions really gave me insight into how their Italian has improved throughout the course of their junior year.

-Matteo S.

I really enjoyed this experience as I was able to get a taste of traditional Italian food as well as an understanding about the owner's background and her life as an Italian-American. The food was so simple yet so delicious. Everyone was really nice and helpful, and they were very accommodating, seeing as I can't eat beef. This experience taught me new words related to cooking as well as more about cooking skills, like different types of chopping, mincing, and slicing.

-Leela S.

My experience in The Cooking Lab was both informative and entertaining. Of course, I loved cooking my own "Polpette," as I usually only create desserts at home. But what really enhanced my experience was Michelle, the owner of The Cooking Lab and our instructor. Her recipe was personal, as it came from her family background and it was also a unique take on the classic italian dish. During her lesson, she primarily spoke to us in italian which was helpful to further our comprehension of the language. It was surprising that we students knew that much Italian, in which we could apply it to making a recipe.

-Samson P.

I had an amazing time learning Italian cuisine and loved to cook meatballs with my friends. I really felt like I was in Italy cooking with my grandparents and improving my cooking skills. It was a very fun experience and the mailman, Richie, was so kind and funny which made the trip even better. I hope to go back soon as I had an amazing time.

-Evan F.

I really enjoyed our class field trip to the cooking lab. We learned how to cook traditional Italian dishes. It was informative and fun, going through the experience with my fellow classmates and friends made it very enjoyable and entertaining. I am excited to take what I learned into my own kitchen and teach my family what I learned.

-Julia W.

We thank the Manhasset community for their continued support and we can't wait to serve up more hands-on learning adventures in the future!