Mary Freeland | March 31, 2010
Much like here in the United States, Italian Easter traditions vary by region. For example in Rome you may find a more traditional Easter processional. Tuscany brings its own flavor to this celebration of religious tradition and the arrival of spring. Florence, has it’s Scoppio del Carro, or “explosion of the cart”. Direct from the kitchen of her mother-in-law, Lara DiPaola shares the family recipe for Easter Lamb.
Mary Freeland | March 30, 2010
There are so many beautiful places to visit in Tuscany, Italy. Siena,Tuscany is the home of Santo Caterina (Italian for Saint Catherine). Statues and frescos all depict this incredible woman. Altars are built in her honor. In Siena, she is the most beloved woman of the Middle Ages.
Mary Freeland | March 26, 2010
Rounding out the Tuscan palette, a full range of rich, subtle neutral tones provides a beautiful contrast to the more vibrant hues of red, blue, and green. Again drawing their inspiration from the landscape of Tuscany, these more understated tones help keep the Mediterranean color scheme grounded.
Mary Freeland | March 24, 2010
This week we not only explore the Tuscan seaside but also learn a wonderful new technique to bring the bounty of the ocean to our table in style. By using parchment paper and simple ingredients this dish lends and elegant simplicity to the traditional meat free Friday tradition.
Mary Freeland | March 23, 2010
We continue our visits to the incredible Italian art and history that can be found in Tuscany. Today we visit the Museum of the Madonna del Parto in Monterchi, Tuscany.
Mary Freeland | March 20, 2010
Like terra cotta and azure, the green hues in Tuscan décor take their inspiration from the rich palette of the Italian countryside. These natural greens are all around you in Tuscany: from the bright lime green of fresh grass to the silver green of olive trees to the inky green of tall Cyprus trees, the [...]
Mary Freeland | March 17, 2010
On a day were many celebrate Irish heritage by displaying the trademark color of the Emerald Isle, we thought we’d do our part and put a Tuscan twist on the festivities.
Mary Freeland | March 15, 2010
As you tour the Tuscan countryside taking in the historical sites, don’t forget to notice the beautiful landscape and architecture that is the basis for Tuscan décor. Our journey today takes us to Prato’s Duomo (Italian for cathedral) to see Mary’s sacred girdle and beheading of John the Baptist in awe-inspiring frescos.
Mary Freeland | March 12, 2010
Oftentimes Tuscan palettes get stuck on the colors of the earth—golden fields, green trees, and red soil—and forget the balancing tones of the calming sea and sky. For a truly harmonious Tuscan home, it’s important to integrate all the colors of the Tuscan landscape, including blues, into your design.
Mary Freeland | March 10, 2010
Today we start with an Italian lesson on our blog. What does the word in the title of this post mean? Tuna. Fitting that our tour of Tuscan cuisine takes us to southern Italy with a dish that originated there; Peperoni rossi ripieni de tonno, or Tuna in Rolled Red Peppers.
