Pasta, Parmesan cheese, oregano, olive oil … Italian ingredients are part of some of the world’s most popular foods. There’s plenty to celebrate, and October is National Italian-American Heritage Month.
In 1880, waves of Italian immigrants migrated to the United States to flee poverty in rural parts of Southern Italy and Sicily. About 100 years later, in 1989, a month was designated to honor the achievements, contributions and influences of Italian immigrants and their descendants living within the American shores.
All told, Over 26 million people of Italian descent live in the U.S., making up America’s seventh largest ethnic group.
October is a month to celebrate Italian culture and spread the word about the traditions that come with it. Italian culture is famous for its food. Although culinary traditions differ by region, a common theme is simplicity and enhanced flavors.
This theme meal focuses on Northern Italian cuisine, where rich dairy products such as cheese and butters from the local cattle often take a leading role.
Gordon Food Service Chef Profile
Ralph Scurci, Culinary Specialist
Pittsburgh market
Ralph Scurci is a Gordon Food Service Culinary Specialist.
He has supported Sales Representatives and customers in the Allegheny Division (Pittsburgh market) since 2015.
Before that, he worked as Executive Chef for both national and family-owned restaurants.
Ralph attended the Culinary Institute of America and has completed competencies from American Culinary Federation as a Certified Executive Chef.
Appetizer: Bagna Cauda
Video: See how Bagna Cauda is made
Soup: Pasta e Fagioli
Entrée: Chicken Milanese
