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Norway , Maine .

“Weekend culinary getaway planned for Italian food lovers and health-conscious cooks.”

Portland, Maine's Institute for Italian Studies has been offering Italian language immersion and cooking classes for several years, but the demand for a health-conscious cooking class with Italian flavor has prompted the Institute to plan a fall getaway weekend at beautiful Granite Ridge Estate in Norway, Maine.

Gluten is a combination of plant-derived proteins found in products containing wheat and many products containing barley spelt, and rye. Gluten is the substance that makes flour sticky and provides the firmness to breads, crusts and cakes. Most people easily digest gluten, but for those with celiac disease, it is intolerable. The gluten free diet concept, originally designed for celiac disease sufferers, has been shown to benefit the general health of followers without the disease. Studies have shown a gluten-free diet aids general digestion, skin conditions, increased energy and the inclusion of more whole foods such as fruits, grains and nuts.

Institute co-founder Luisa De Luca has combined the talents of Chef Rebecca Reilly, author of “Gluten-Free Baking: More Than 125 Recipes for Delectable, Sweet and Savory Baked Goods, Including Cakes, Pies, Quick Breads, Muffins, Cookies and Other Delights”, with the knowledge of registered dietician Michelle Fratianne, RD, LD, and brought them to the picturesque, secluded 128-acre Granite Ridge Estates to allow participants to prepare a variety of authentic Italian dishes.

Running from October 23 through 25, 2009, attendees will arrive on a Friday evening, and prepare the weekend meals while enjoying and exploring the beautiful surroundings. All meals will, of course, be gluten free.

While delicious regional Italian cooking will be explained in detail, health-conscious attendees will benefit from the teaching of Chef Reilly. According to Reilly, “A gluten-free diet is not only of fundamental importance in the treatment of celiac disease and wheat allergy, but it has become a conscientious choice for many people longing for a healthy and balanced living style.” Likewise, Michelle Fratianne, a registered dietician and educator will discuss and answer any questions on healthy food choices and how to evaluate nutritional information in the media.

The weekend course includes meals and lodging and full use of the Granite Ridge Estates facility. To learn more and register for this informative, delicious entertaining and educational program, visit: http://www.iismaine.com/cooking_gateways.htm