There’s a delicious diversity to the wines of Veneto, thanks to the varying types of terrain and soil in this region. Here we explore some of its best reds… Although not vast in size, Veneto is one of the largest-producing regions of DOC wines in Italy. The variety of wine styles offered by Veneto are […]
Rome may not seem like the obvious choice for a family break, but if you plan it right, it can be a fantastic destination for the whole clan, says Beth Al Rikabi… Photos by Beth Al Rikabi If you’re planning to head to Rome with little ones, these quick tips for happy family travel in […]
Having explored Rome’s nooks and crannies several times over, Beth Al Rikabi delves into the city once more on a multi-generational family holiday… Photos by Beth Al Rikabi It was while I was cheffing at a yoga retreat amongst the mellow green folds of the Sabine Hills, with the city an hour’s train ride away, that […]
For a sensational dessert or teatime treat with an Italian twist, this gorgeous ricotta cheesecake by Mario Matassa should fit the bill… Ricotta and Cherry Cheesecake | Cheesecake alle Ciliegie e Ricotta ➤ SERVES: 4 ➤ PREPARATION: 15 minutes ➤ COOKING: 45 minutes Ingredients: 200g plain biscuits 75g unsalted butter 250g ricotta 75g icing sugar 2 large free-range […]
For hearty comfort food with an Italian twist, this purè di patate recipe from Mario Matassa is a sure-fire winner… Serves 6 Preparation time 10 minutes Cooking time 30 minutes Ingredients: • 1 celery stalk, finely diced • 1 small carrot, peeled, finely diced • 1 tbsp olive oil (you can use the oil from the […]
This creamy, dreamy salmon risotto from Mario Matassa makes a truly delicious midweek meal if you’re looking for something simple but indulgent Serves 6 Preparation time 5 minutes Cooking time 20 minutes Ingredients: • 2 tbsp olive oil • a bunch of spring onions, finely chopped • 300g risotto rice • 1 litre of light chicken […]
Mario Matassa brings us a fantastic Italian salad to enjoy on sunny days – light, flavoursome and with an interesting added ingredient… Serves 6 Preparation time 10 minutes Cooking time none Ingredients: • 2 ripe but firm peaches • 200g buffalo mozzarella • a small handful of wild dandelion leaves • 6 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil […]
Sun-dried tomato and fennel seed pâté provides a delicious, distinctive flavour for these puff pastry ‘girelle’ by Mario Matassa – ideal snacks for entertaining Serves 6 Preparation time 15 minutes, plus chilling Cooking time 25 minutes Ingredients: • 1 small jar of sun-dried tomatoes in oil • 2 anchovy fillets • 1 garlic clove, peeled • 1 tsp fennel […]
Mario Matassa’s wonderful lonza di maiale ripiena di fave e pecorino (to give it its Italian name) is a perfect Sunday show-stopper… Serves 4-6 Preparation time 15 minutes Cooking time 1 hour, 15 minutes Ingredients: • 1kg pork loin in one piece • 250g broad beans, with their tough outer skin removed • 200g mature pecorino cheese, finely […]
Read on to discover five of the best Italian rail journeys, with our round-up of train rides to remember. What’s your favourite…? Photos by iStock unless otherwise stated 1. The legendary Orient Express has graced the tracks of Europe for nearly 140 years and remains the most luxurious experience available to rail rovers seeking the […]