The Cook-off, an Iron Chef-like culinary competition to raise funds for children's culinary education programming, was held at Trinity on Friday, May 6th. Emceed by celebrity chef Michael Lomonaco, the event supported Spoons Across America, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to educating children, teachers, and families about the benefits of healthy eating. About 100 parents, teachers and others were there to watch the competition and cheer for their teams.

To prepare for the cook-off, Chef Leon prepared and coached the students to plan, budget, shop for and prepare a three course meal. The meal was judged on taste, presentation, creativity, nutritional balance, team participation and sanitation. Chef Leon commented on the Dalton team's incredible focus and concentration on doing a good job. He said they prepared, behaved and cooked like professionals. When asked what gave the team its winning edge, he and Walter Lyczkowski, Dining Services Director, agreed that "the menu was sophisticated, but it was aimed to appeal to a child's palette." It makes sense that the winning team resolved on a theme consistent with one of Spoons Across America's goals to make healthy eating appealing to children. According to the NY MetroParents website, the event raised $5,200. 

The Winning Menu:

Cold Avocado Soup w/ Roasted Corn and Cilantro  Strawberry Tiramisu Cone

Photos by David Feldman, Parent