Instructor: Candy Argondizza

Biography: Candy Argondizza grew up in a close-knit Italian family where food was the center of every gathering. This led to her love of food and sharing of ideas. She began her career with a degree from the Culinary Institute of America and worked her way through many of New York City's finer restaurants. She has spent the last 17 years teaching and guiding future chefs at the helm of the International Culinary Center in NYC. There, she worked alongside and collaborated with many of the culinary world's best known chefs.

Candy has contributed to various cookbooks, is often sought for her advice and tips for food magazines, and has been featured at the James Beard House. She was also honored with Culinary Teacher of the Year by the International Association of Culinary Professionals.

She is excited to continue sharing her culinary knowledge and talents with all food lovers in Bend and Central Oregon. As an avid triathlete and accomplished runner, Candy feels right at home in the active Bend community.

Classes by this instructor

A Taste of Italy: Handcrafted Pasta and Rustic Flavors

Roll up your sleeves and discover the art of handmade Italian pasta! Learn to shape traditional cavatelli from scratch, then pair it with sweet Italian sausage, tender broccoli rabe, garlic and olive oil. Explore simple techniques that bring out the best in fresh ingredients and create a rustic Italian dish that's sure to become a favorite at home.
Saturday, January 16, 2027 | 10:00am-1:00pm PST | Bend

Italian Bistro Favorites: Chicken Saltimbocca with Marsala Sage Sauce

Bring a little Italian bistro magic into your kitchen! Learn to prepare tender chicken saltimbocca with a rich Marsala wine and sage sauce, accompanied by creamy smashed celeriac and potatoes. Discover techniques for building flavorful pan sauces, balancing ingredients and creating an elegant meal that's surprisingly approachable for the home cook.
Saturday, January 30, 2027 | 10:00am-1:00pm PST | Bend

A Taste of the Middle East: Spice, Savor, Share

Explore the vibrant flavors and aromatic spices of Middle Eastern cooking! Prepare savory, seasoned meatballs paired with a colorful couscous and vegetable salad, and learn to make fresh, homemade flatbread. Discover how herbs, spices and contrasting textures come together to create a delicious, satisfying meal perfect for sharing.
Saturday, February 13, 2027 | 10:00am-1:00pm PST | Bend

Southern Comfort with a Twist: Sweet, Smoky and Savory

Give classic American barbecue a flavorful upgrade! Learn to prepare tender BBQ pork tenderloin with a bold blueberry-chipotle barbecue sauce that strikes the perfect balance between sweet, smoky, and spicy. Round out the plate with rich, cheesy grits and bright, quick-pickled vegetables. Discover how contrasting flavors and textures can transform familiar comfort food into something extraordinary.
Saturday, February 27, 2027 | 10:00am-1:00pm PST | Bend

Supper Series: Traditional German Feast - Demonstration and Dinner with Chef Candy Argondizza

Celebrate the flavors of Germany with a cozy evening of traditional comfort food in the COCC Community Education Supper Series! Join Chef Candy Argondizza as she demonstrates the art of preparing a classic German feast in Cascade Culinary Institute's state-of-the-art demonstration kitchen. Along the way, discover time-honored cooking techniques, explore the traditions behind these beloved dishes and pick up tips for recreating these hearty, satisfying flavors at home. Following the demonstration, relax and enjoy the delicious meal together in the Elevations dining room, accompanied by a complimentary glass of wine. Participants must be 21+, and show id.
Saturday, March 13, 2027 | 5:00pm-8:00pm PST | Bend

Taste of Thai: Thai Shrimp Curry, Broccoli and Tofu with Jasmine Rice

Discover the bold, aromatic flavors of Thailand in this hands-on cooking class. You'll learn to prepare a fragrant Thai shrimp curry featuring creamy coconut milk, vibrant herbs and authentic Thai seasonings, along with a flavorful broccoli and tofu side dish served over fragrant jasmine rice. Along the way, you'll explore the balance of sweet, savory, spicy and tangy flavors that define Thai cuisine while gaining confidence using traditional ingredients and techniques. Leave with delicious recipes, practical cooking skills and everything you need to recreate this fresh and satisfying Thai-inspired meal at home.
Saturday, November 21, 2026 | 10:00am-1:00pm PST | Bend

Supper Series: Italian Holiday Feast - Demonstration and Dinner with Chef Candy Argondizza

Celebrate the season with an unforgettable evening of Italian cuisine in the COCC Community Education Supper Series. Join Chef Candy Argondizza as she demonstrates how to prepare a traditional Italian holiday feast in the Cascade Culinary Institute's state-of-the-art demonstration kitchen. Along the way, you'll learn classic techniques, hear the stories behind the dishes, and pick up tips for bringing authentic Italian flavors to your own holiday table. After the demonstration, relax and enjoy the meal together in the Elevations dining room with a complimentary glass of wine. The evening's menu features handcrafted orecchiette Bolognese, saut�ed broccoli rabe, olive oil cake, and silky cr�me Celeste. Whether you're looking for holiday inspiration or simply an exceptional culinary experience, this festive supper is sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Saturday, December 5, 2026 | 5:00pm-8:00pm PST | Bend