Nick Stellino: Storyteller in the Kitchen

Nick recounts his first American breakfast and its influence on him as a chef. Dishes include: Eggs Benedict "Stellino Style" / Poached Eggs over Chorizo Hash with Tequila Sauce / Chocolate Chip Pancakes

Chef Stellino shares an anecdote about bringing his parents to an American steak house for the first time, and the surprising menu choice his late father made. Dishes include: Reverse Sear Steak with Port Wine Sauce and Pan Fried Mushroom and Arugula / Wedge Salad

While pondering life as a vegetarian, Nick discovers some fabulous new dishes loaded with spectacular flavors. Dishes include: Chilled Cantaloupe Soup / Salmon with Spinach and Pancetta Cream Sauce / Biancomangiare (Sicilian Almond Pudding)

Nick recounts how Sundays and certain dishes remind him of his family in Sicily. Dishes include: Potatoes with Sun Dried Tomatoes and Rosemary / Pork Chop with Pizzaiola Sauce / Pasta Agghiu e Ogghiu (Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil)

Nick describes how growing up surrounded by the ocean and trips to the California coastline inspire his recipes. Dishes include: Swordfish "Agrodolce" (swordfish in a sweet and sour Sicilian sauce) / Scallop with Red Pepper Zucchini Cream Sauce / Calamari with Sun Dried Tomatoes and Garbanzo Beans

Nick recounts warm memories from a childhood spent on his family's farm in Sicily — and the enduring influence of one chicken in particular. Dishes include: Chicken Scallopini with Mushrooms and Marsala / Chicken Scallopini with Mortadella Cream Sauce / Chicken Scallopini with Radicchio and Gorgonzola Cream Sauce

Nick recalls his glory days of playing football in the United States while showcasing elegant dishes to serve for Sunday football parties. Dishes include: Pikkio Pakkio Conzato (Shrimp and Tortellini Salad with Fresh Tomato Sauce) / Shrimp Salad with Cannellini Beans / Sicilian Salad with Shrimp and Calamari

Nick talks about his growth as a chef while preparing a trio of comforting soups. Dishes include: Mussel Soup with Brandy and Saffron / Lentil Soup with Sausages / Butternut Squash Soup with Cannellini Beans and Ham

Nick recounts an amusing anecdote from his childhood about the trouble that ensued when his father brought home live lobsters. Dishes include: Pasta with Lobster Sauce / Langoustine Sliders / White Chocolate Pudding

Nick illuminates the art (and joy) of making handcrafted meatballs. Dishes include: Meatballs Ammugghiate (Mixed-Up Meatballs) / Meatballs Agglassatu (Meatballs with Marsala and Onion Sauce) / Chicken Meatballs in Parmesan Cream Sauce

Nick describes the need for a chef to trust their instincts and the skills needed to further one’s culinary passion. Dishes include: Salad Lyonnaise with Poached Egg / Pork Schnitzel with Jaeger Sauce / Strawberry Pudding

Nick confesses his love for pasta and explains how the perfect sauce completes his most cherished meal. Dishes include: Ravioli in Wild Mushroom Sauce / Pasta Fagioli / Pasta with White Meat Sauce

Living in Southern California has given Nick an appreciation for Latino culinary culture. He shares a trio of recipes influenced by his love of Latino food. Dishes include: Spicy Corn Salad / Poached Chicken Breast with Mole Sauce / Gazpacho "Stellino Style"