Italian food, travel & lifestyle
Beefsteak Florentine is a food that represents strong ties and deep friendships. My first foray to Beefsteak Florentine years ago was from the master of Tuscan cuisine – my mentor, teacher and friend Giuliano Bugialli. Long before Italian cooking classes became the rage, Giuliano was teaching at his homes in Soho and Florence. He brilliantly shared the history, techniques and typical dishes of his beloved Tuscany….
Tuscans are a proud people, their cuisine generally straightforward and satisfying often an outgrowth of Cucina Povera. The moniker Magiafagiole, or bean eaters is a playful reference to their affinity for bean dishes. Tuscan Style Beans is a rustic preparation which is served as a staple or basis for a variety of other dishes….
I know what you are thinking…again with the peaches! The season is so short, who can resist when your favorite market stocks the most luscious blush peaches. Summer in Northern California has been hot and uncharacteristically humid – we want dessert but not too much fussing. White Peaches Stuffed with Sheep Milk Ricotta is exactly what I was looking for….
White peaches are piled high in all of the markets right now and I plan to use them every way possible in the coming weeks (say tuned). There are an endless variety of summer salad recipes which feature peaches; some add cheese or pancetta, others grill the peaches, and a few use a rich balsamic vinaigrette. White Peach & Arugula Salad harmoniously brings together peppery wild arugula and the floral sweetness of white peaches – a match made in heaven….
