One of the most well-loved Sicilian pasta dishes has a strange nickname, Norma. Why is it called Pasta alla Norma? No, it’s not named for an old Italian nonna, rather it’s believed to have been renamed after one of the tragic operas by Vincenzo Bellini with the same name. They say that a Catanian (someone […]
Tangy, creamy, and nostalgic. Heirloom tomatoes kick this tomato basil soup recipe up a notch by adding layers of amazing flavor. The cream and balsamic vinegar add even more layers of flavor and a few basil leaves add a sweet, fresh twist. As far back as I can remember, tomato soup has found itself poured […]
The “angry” pasta (arrabbiata translates to angry) from Lazio is one of the traditional favorites around Italy, and the rest of the world. Although it seems very simple, basically tomatoes and chili peppers, it is a classic that still needs a bit of attention to perfect. Let’s start by discussing the different components that are […]
What most people might think of when they hear of an Americano, is Caffé Americano, or espresso mixed with hot water. The coffee drink was named after the American soldiers in WW2 who were looking for something more like the filter coffee from back home after liberating Italy from the fascists. What we’re talking about […]
What in the world is Spaghetti alle Vongole? It turns out, it is a delicious pasta dish made with clams, and it is a part of traditional Neapolitan cuisine. There are loads of Neapolitan dishes that are based around fresh seafood, but some stand out amongst the others. Spaghetti alle Vongole (Spaghetti with Clams) is […]
Earthy, Full of Flavor, and filling. This vegetarian dinner is packed with flavor and loaded with nutrients, and the best part is it’s delicious. I love lasagna. I always have and I always will. However, that lasagna I typically love is loaded with meat. Today I decided to a try a vegetarian version. Don’t worry though; […]
One of the most popular Italian dishes of the 1980s is coming back with a vengeance. Popular at all times of the year, it is especially enjoyed in the Winter; the rich creaminess warms you up, and the bright tomato flavors help you think of Spring. Although it is a fairly simple dish, Penne alla […]
Of all the doughs (bread, pie, short dough, and pasta), pasta dough may be the simplest – aside from a few bread recipes. Most pastas are a mix of just flour and water. What is Spinach Pasta? Enriched pastas add eggs to the mix, giving the pasta a richer color and flavor. And then there […]
If you aren’t familiar with the dish, but are familiar with a bit of Italian, you might expect to find Zuppa Inglese in the starters section of the menu as the literal translation is “English Soup”. But, in fact, you will find it listed under desserts in many classical Italian cookbooks and restaurants as it […]
Few things are quite as relaxing as watching the sun start to set in mid-Summer while sipping on a crisp, effervescent cocktail that matches the glowing orange of the sky. In Veneto, they sometimes jokingly refer to this as spritz hour, and the reason for this is the Aperol Spritz. What is Aperol? Aperol is […]
There are many custard desserts in the food world; flan, pots de crème, crème caramel, etc. One traditional Italian version that is actually a little bit different is Panna Cotta. Custard and Flan Versus Panna Cotta – Is it like a flan or creme brulee? When making a custard or flan, you take milk or […]
Many of the most loved traditional dishes come from the simplest of backgrounds. This dish, Spaghetti Aglio Olio e Peperoncino is one of those dishes. It is as simple a pasta dish as you can get, while still calling it cooking (tossing pasta in butter just doesn’t quite count). However, don’t think that means it […]
Modern-day kitchen users are aware that hand held mixers add to convenience and sophistication. However, like other kitchen appliances, choosing the best hand mixer requires a fair bit of backend information. Hand mixer is a kitchen appliance used to beat dough, cream, chocolate and many other items eaten on daily basis. A common handheld mixer […]
Tools. Every profession, avocation, simple task, and Rube Goldberg machine has them. Great men and women will tell you, without the right tool getting the job done properly can be impossible. In cooking there are certain tools you have to have–a knife, a spoon, a whisk–and there are others–a sharp chef’s knife, a stand […]
There is nothing on earth that I find as loathsome as badly prepared tuna. That has to be the most disgusting meal there is – I’d rather eat an eye! On my last trip abroad I went to dinner one evening and was served (with great aplomb, mind you) a grey lump of tuna, boiled […]
What is Genovese Sauce? La Genovese is puree of onions flavored mainly with meat and is considered one of the greats of the Neapolitan kitchen; a dish that bears witness of superb cooking before the arrival of tomato! The Origins of Genovese Sauce… Some people say that in the 16th century, the private chefs of […]
Capri, where this cake originated, is famous for it’s Limoncello and that’s probably why it was used initially. However, I cannot imagine the cake made without it. It’s delicious, very easy and very quick to make during the Easter break. You’ll notice it contains no flour and consists entirely of roughly chopped chocolate and nuts with only […]
Passata di pomodoro is an Italian staple. You have likely heard of it or used it without even knowing! Tomato passata is something any chef should be familiar with, and the history behind it is also worth knowing. It is indeed part of Italian culture, not merely a kitchen necessity. What is Tomato Passata? At […]
Lemon semifreddo is one of the lightest, most refreshing desserts out there. Its delicate texture and robust flavor is one that cannot be matched! While it may seem like making such a perfect dessert would be challenging, it is in fact, quite simple as long as you follow the directions carefully. This recipe will enable […]
Who doesn’t enjoy pasta? If you’re used to store-bought pasta, you might be ready to take things to the next level of deliciousness by making your own fresh pasta right at home. Making homemade pasta by hand can be a bit tedious, though. Lucky for us, you don’t have to do it the old […]
Pizza is a widespread food in cuisines across the world. However, in every country, every region and even in every town, what “pizza” means may vary. One area may prefer a ticker crust while other opts for thinner. Some places put cheese on before sauce, and others might skip sauce all together. However, if you […]
Cannoli cheesecake is a combination of two true Italian classics. You get to enjoy two delicious Italian desserts and never need to choose which to have- you can have them both! So how did cannoli cheesecake come to be an, most importantly, how can you make such a fantastic dessert? Those questions will be answered […]
Eggplant parmigiana is a classic dish that almost everyone has tried once or twice. It is a delicious, meat-free dinner option with a long history rooted in Italian culture. While you may think that eggplant parmigiana seems like a complicated dish, but it is quite simple. We’ll share with you a beautiful, easy and very […]
Similar to minestrone, this hearty, authentic Italian bean soup is perfect for a chilly evening. A thick slice of toasted bread, or crostino, adds crunch, and canellini beans provide an excellent source of protein and a creamy texture. Garlic, rosemary, and a pinch of Calabrian red pepper flakes give this soup its delicious, comforting flavor. […]
Lasagna and pizza are probably the most famous Italian imports, but are usually not translated authentically.Just as there is no pepperoni on pizza in Italy, there is no ricotta cheese in lasagna either. The entire city of Bologna would riot if you brought them a lasagna with ricotta in it. They take their pastas extremely seriously and […]
