Simply Laura

Laura Vitale's passion for food and cooking was inspired by her Italian grandmother, who taught her not only how to cook, but also how to spread love through food. Today Laura takes you on a very personal journey through her some of her Nonna's favorite dishes. First up, Nonna's hearty Pasta al Forno with Mini Meatballs. On the side, her crunchy Spicy Broccolini, and finally, a zesty Orange Bundt Cake with Mandarinello and Blackberry Compote topped off with Mascarpone Cream.

After a long day, preparing a meal from scratch can often seem like a daunting task. Before you reach for the takeout menu, Laura Vitale shows you a simple and delicious crowd-pleasing supper that's ready in a flash. She starts off with a tasty Sauteed Mushroom Bruschetta. For the main course, spicy Linguine with Shrimp Al'Amatriciana and a light Insalata Tre Colori with Lemon Dijon Vinaigrette. But that's not all, Laura shows us that on even the busiest of days, a delectable dessert is within reach with her Toasted Hazelnut Twists and Affogato.

Laura Vitale began her culinary career in her dad's pizzeria, and they still love getting in the kitchen and cooking together. Laura makes some of his favorites recipes before he joins her in the kitchen for a pizza-making reunion. First up is Sal's Grilled Seafood Salad with Calamari and Shrimp, followed by a Classic Neapolitan Margherita Pizza and a White Pizza with garlic oil, prosciutto and arugula. For a sweet finish, Laura makes a crave-worthy Chocolate-Hazelnut Zeppole.

There's nothing more fun and creative than making a new meal from yesterday's leftovers. Laura Vitale shares her tricks for turning everyday leftovers into a delicious meal with her mouthwatering Smokey Black Bean Rice, a Mexican-Style Chicken Pot Pie, a Tomato Avocado Salad with Creamy Yogurt Dressing and phenomenal Brownie Truffles.

Brunch can be one of the most delicious and easy ways to entertain loved ones in a casual setting. Laura Vitale makes a mouthwatering brunch that pairs both sweet and savory ingredients. She begins with her light and crispy Belgian Waffles topped with her famous Savory Sausage and Apple Hash. On the side, there's a Roasted Fig Salad with Goat Cheese, Arugula and Prosciutto. Laura makes Almond Madeleines in individual packages as a fun favor, and because no brunch is complete without a special drink, she makes a quick, refreshing Orange and Raspberry Mimosa.

Laura Vitale shares her secrets to creating a meal that will impress a crowd without stressing the chef. She starts off with crispy Pancetta Wrapped Pork Loin with creamy Polenta Parmigiano. Then she whips up a refreshing Roasted Fennel Salad with Oranges and Baby Arugula. For the finale, her silky Gingerbread Tiramisu is a twist on an Italian classic that's sure to become a favorite among your guests.