Flavors of Spain: A Virtual Cooking Series with Chef Stephen Forman

AARP New York is excited to present Flavors of Spain, a three‑part virtual cooking experience led by Chef Stephen Forman, a Certified Executive Chef, educator, and mentor with more than 30 years of culinary and professional kitchen experience. This series invites participants to explore Spain’s vibrant food culture — from iconic dishes to regional traditions — all through live, interactive instruction.

No recipes will be provided in advance. Instead, participants will learn techniques, tips, and cultural background directly from Chef Steve during each live session.

Three Tuesdays in February | 4:00–5:30 p.m. E.T. | Free Virtual Series

Chef Stephen Forman brings decades of experience to the AARPNY kitchen. His background includes:

• Certified Executive Chef
• Essentials in Leadership certification from Cornell University
• Mentorship certification from the Culinary Institute of America (CIA)
• Extensive leadership in high‑volume professional kitchens
• Training in traditional and classical culinary techniques

Chef Steve’s classes go beyond cooking — they offer guidance on culinary skills, leadership development, soft skills, and real‑world insights from his professional journey. His instructional style is immersive, supportive, and designed for all skill levels.

Throughout the series, Chef Steve incorporates healthy cooking practices without compromising flavor. Each session features options and tips related to:

🧂 Low‑Salt / No‑Salt preparation
🍬 Low‑Sugar / No‑Sugar alternatives
🥑 Low‑Fat / No‑Fat cooking methods
🍇 Antioxidant‑rich ingredients
🌿 Whole foods and clean cooking

Participants will learn how to make delicious meals tailored to a variety of dietary needs — all while enjoying the bold flavors of Spanish cuisine.

📅 Tuesday, February 10, 2026
⏰ 4:00–5:30 p.m. E.T.

Start your journey with one of Spain’s most iconic dishes as Chef Steve guides you through the traditions, flavors, and key techniques behind authentic paella.

👉 Registration link: https://events.aarp.org/FlavorsOfSpain0210

📅 Tuesday, February 17, 2026
⏰ 4:00–5:30 p.m. E.T.

Tapas bring people together. In this session, Chef Steve explores their history and demonstrates classic, nutrition‑conscious preparations using wholesome, flavorful ingredients.

👉 Registration link: https://events.aarp.org/FlavorsOfSpain0217

📅 Tuesday, February 24, 2026
⏰ 4:00–5:30 p.m. E.T.

The series concludes with traditional Spanish gazpacho and handmade artisan crackers, featuring knife skills, whole‑food techniques, and smart, flavorful cooking methods.

👉 Registration link: https://events.aarp.org/FlavorsOfSpain0224

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