Rustic Italian Cooking: Traditional Techniques by El Pica Flor Kitchen

Join European-trained Chef David Plonowski at Mitchell Hall for a hands-on cooking class exploring the bold flavors of rustic Italian cuisine enhanced and infused with alcohol. This class will take place on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 6:00 PM, with only 16 seats available.

Chef Plonowski focuses on technique, teaching proven culinary methods that you can carry with you forever. You’ll unlock and use your natural culinary instincts, mastering both traditional and modern techniques while developing an understanding of infinite flavor possibilities.

Date and Time: Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 6:00 PM
Location: Mitchell Hall, Columbus State
Seats Available: 16
Price: $95 per person
Includes: Printed recipes, aprons for use during class, and a complimentary glass of wine with dinner

First Course
Classic Italian Chopped Salad with Prosecco Vinaigrette
Crisp Chopped Iceberg and Romaine, Red Onion, Tomato, Kalamata Olives, Provolone, Dry Salami

Second Course
Penne a la Vodka
Penne Pasta, Flambé Vodka Tomato Cream Sauce, Parmesan, Fresh Basil Chiffonade

Dessert
Chianti Poached Pear, Limoncello Crema, Chianti Gastrique

• How to turn Prosecco into vinegar and create a Prosecco Vinaigrette
• How to make a Flambé Vodka Tomato Cream Sauce
• Techniques for Chianti Poached Pear, Limoncello Crema, and Chianti Gastrique
• How to build complex flavor profiles by interchanging oils, vinegars, mustards, herbs, spices, and salts

At the end of class, students will receive a guideline of ratios and cooking methods to use as a reference. This guide will also include a list of local stores recommended by Chef Plonowski for purchasing kitchen supplies, equipment, and exotic ingredients to expand your culinary toolbox.

David began his culinary career in 1999 in Salamanca, Spain, spending four years mastering the foundation of European cuisine. Since then, he has traveled to 23 countries, cooking in over 300 cities and leading in roles such as Executive Chef, Culinary Director, Research and Development Chef, and Corporate Executive Chef. He has opened six restaurants in four different countries and continues to push culinary boundaries.

Now residing in Columbus, Ohio’s Italian Village, Chef Plonowski brings his expertise to this class, guiding you through technique-driven cooking that will elevate your skills beyond recipes.

Host or Publisher Columbus State Foundation