Mary Freeland | July 15, 2011
Have you been a victim of “fake” Italian food? If you’ve ever frequented an Olive Garden restaurant and ordered their “pastachetti”, then I hate to break the news to you. The answer is a resounding “si!” Neither the pastachetti, nor it’s sibling the “soffatelli”, were ever made by Nonnas in the Old Country.
Mary Freeland | July 6, 2011
Although it originated in India, basil really hit it’s stride once the Italians got hold of it. Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum) is one of the preeminent herbs used to flavor Italian dishes, and when it’s freshest in summer, it’s EVERYWHERE. This summer, befriend your fresh basil! It’ll be the beginning of a beautiful relationship – you won’t be sorry.
Mary Freeland | June 22, 2011
While it may be called “seasonal eating” now, for centuries it’s just been common sense – when a particular crop is prime for picking, you pick – and eat – as much of it as possible at the height of its glory.
Mary Freeland | April 21, 2011
Most Italians are Roman Catholic, and for them and millions of others throughout the world, the forty days before Easter is the Lenten Season. Traditionally, meat is not eaten on Fridays during Lent…which means that during this month even more fish is consumed in any number of wonderful Italian seafood recipes.
Mary Freeland | April 14, 2011
Aside from the pizza pie, the meatball (or polpette) may be the most recognized of all Italy’s culinary contributions. And, like the pizza pie, there are as many ways to make Italian meatballs as there are people to ASK about making meatballs.
Mary Freeland | March 30, 2011
When I asked a dear Italian friend of mine what one dish said “Spring” to her, without hesitation she answered “Nonna’s Sweet Rice Pie”. While she recalled for me this dish from her childhood – this paragon of pastry, this dessert most sublime – a dreamy look of contentment spread across her face at the memory. Part cheesecake, part custard…melt in your mouth yet substantial…incredibly rich without being too sweet.
Mary Freeland | March 2, 2011
Limoncello is an Italian liquor traditionally made from the rinds of lemons, alcohol and sugar. Its history is as vibrant as its bright yellow color, with Sorrento, the Amalfi Coast and Capri all claiming to have been the home of its birth.
Mary Freeland | February 18, 2011
Few plants are more distinctly “Italian” than fennel. Like the Italian people, fennel embodies some of the most sought after characteristics among humans and vegetables. While fennel is native to many countries throughout the Mediterranean, it’s heart is clearly della’Italia!
Mary Freeland | February 2, 2011
What was made in Italy in the early 1930’s, looks great in your kitchen and makes a fabulous cup of coffee? The Italian stove-top coffee maker – sometimes called a “Moka” or “Macchinetta”.
Mary Freeland | January 26, 2011
Sometimes we all need to take it easy. But an easy meal doesn’t necessarily mean boring or even take-out. This week we bring you Tuscany meets Mexico in an easy weeknight meal that is a breeze to whip up but a big bang in the taste department.
