DEMO INSTRUCTIONS – BELLA CUCINA

Products to Sample

Fresh Basil Pesto
Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto
Olivada “Olive” Pesto

What to Bring From Home

Apron & hat
Food handler’s card

Central Market Provided Supplies

Portion cups
Napkins
Gloves
3 spoons or knives (plastic preferred)
Hairnet

Product Verification & Purchase

1. Check in with the Foodie and have the clock-in form signed. Electronic version available upon request.

2. Locate the Bella Cucina pesto products on the shelf.

3. Count opening inventory of each flavor.

4. Take a selfie at the shelf and text to Karen & Lexi (do not upload to report).

5. Take a picture of the shelf.

6. Purchase crackers or crostini at the beginning of the demo using the Divvy card.

Bella Cucina did not specify type of cracker. Pick one that does not overpower the flavor of the pesto.

7. At the end of the demo, purchase all pesto products used for sampling with the Divvy card. Upload receipt to Bill Spend & Expense app (this serves as check-in).

Brand Information

Bella Cucina is an Atlanta-based, woman-owned company founded over 30 years ago.

The company creates Mediterranean-inspired specialty foods made in small batches using all natural ingredients with no preservatives.

Bella Cucina pestos are ready-to-eat and designed to be versatile for everyday meals and entertaining. They can be used as spreads, dips, pasta sauces, sandwich enhancers, or appetizer toppings.

Shelf life is 18 months unopened and approximately 3 weeks once opened and refrigerated.

Product Talking Points & Flavor Profiles

Fresh Basil Pesto

Classic Italian-style pesto made with fresh basil, walnuts, and Parmesan
Flavor profile: bright, herbal, slightly nutty, savory
Smooth texture with fresh, vibrant taste

Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto

Made with vine-ripened California sun-dried tomatoes
Flavor profile: rich, bold, slightly sweet with deep tomato intensity
Robust and savory with concentrated flavor

Olivada “Olive” Pesto (Vegan, Nut-Free)

Pure Kalamata olive blend with a hint of lemon
Flavor profile: briny, savory, slightly citrusy
Great option for customers looking for vegan or nut-free products

Pairing Ideas & Usage Inspiration

These pesto are designed for both simple snacking and easy meal upgrades:

Fresh Basil Pesto

Tomatoes + mozzarella (Caprese style)
Pasta or pasta salad
Crostini or crackers
Chicken or seafood topping

Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto

Feta + grilled vegetables
Ciabatta sandwiches or paninis
Chicken breast or pasta dishes
Goat cheese appetizers

Olivada “Olive” Pesto

White fish + lemon
Cherry tomatoes or Mediterranean salads
Baked feta dishes
Spread on crackers or served as a dip

Additional talking point:

These pesto can instantly elevate simple foods—guests can recreate a gourmet appetizer or meal in minutes.

Demo Set Up

1. Set up the demo station.

2. Display multiple jars of each flavor on the table for guests to take.

3. Take a picture of the completed demo station.

4. Wash hands in hand wash sink prior to sampling.

Sampling Procedure

1. Greet each guest and invite them to sample Bella Cucina pesto.

2. Ask which flavor they would like to try first.

3. Spread desired pesto onto a cracker and place on napkin or portion cup in front of demo station for guest to pick up (or serve by itself with a spoon in a portion cup if guest prefers).

4. Share key product information while serving.

5. Ask for feedback and offer another flavor.

6. Encourage purchase by sharing easy usage ideas and pairings.

Clean Up & Wrap Up

1. Clean and sanitize the demo area.

2. Count closing inventory of each flavor.

3. Purchase any additional product opened for sampling with the Divvy card.

4. Upload receipts to the Bill Spend & Expense app.

5. Complete the demo report and upload all required photos and receipts.