Italian food, travel & lifestyle
What was my favorite childhood dish you ask? Without hesitation it was Pasta e Peas! As a child, I naturally thought that Pasta e Peas was Calabrese, something typical of the south; however almost every region in Italy has a pasta or rice piatto with peas. Some preparations are more of a minestra or soup, while others are considered a pasta….
Branzini al Forno – Roasted Branzini
Santa Margherita Ligura, tucked between Portofino and Rapallo on the Gulf of Tigullio, epitomizes the nostalgic Italian Riveria. Frequented by prosperous Northern Italians, the picturesque resort town features an inviting pedestrian zone, tromp l’oeil frescos, and old world elegant hotels. During a morning passeggiata along the palm tree lined marina one can watch luxurious yachts set amongst traditional fishing boats. The bustling morning fish market sources fresh catch for local establishments. Never being a family intimidated by dining on a whole fish, as a toddler La Levitt relished the sight of a well prepared head always eager to feast on the eyes (yes on not with), we first sampled Branzino some years ago dining al fresco in Santa Margherita Liguria….
Pouring the Perfect Negroni
Mio Marito has become quite the Italophile over the years, developing an appreciation and rather uncanny understanding of all things Italian, including yours truly. He has embraced the history, culture, customs, food, and wine. Did I mention the late afternoon aperitivi? A veritable master of that domain… Our early evening ritual when in Italy is to facciamo una bella passeggata (take a nice walk together) followed by an aperitivo before dinner. After years of experience, his preferred cocktail is without a doubt, the Negroni.
Apparently the Negroni came into being in Florence in the 1920’s when the nobleman Count Cammillo Negroni asked a local establishment to prepare an Americano asking him to substitute gin for club soda. Lucca Picchi, head bartender at Caffe Rivoire in Florence wrote a book about the colorful Count in 2008, available in Italian: Sulle Tracce del Conte: La Vera Storia del Cocktail Negroni (On the Trails of the Count: The True Story of the Negroni Cocktail)….
Farro has long entered the world of food rock star. Once a humble grain, a staple in ancient Rome it is now found on the menus of every Italian restaurant from New York to San Francisco. There are actually some good reasons for this; farro’s distinctive nutty taste, delicate bite, and versatile nature make it perfect for adapting seasonal dishes. The instructions for preparing farro are universal. Once you have done so, it provides a blank palate for an infinite variety of dishes. This particular version is a family favorite and an excellent vegetarian entrée….
