Learn to make Crocchette di riso con mozzarella e pomodoro with Mario Matassa’s Italian rice cake recipe Okay, if you form the exact same ingredients set out below into a ball, then arancini is the word you’ll be looking for. But, while working the lunch menu in restaurants here in the north, we more often formed […]
Indulge your taste buds in the vibrant flavours of Italy with this delightful ‘Insalata di riso’ Mediterranean rice salad recipe. Rice salad has been described as the caposaldo, ‘cornerstone’, of Italian summer cuisine. Every Italian has an opinion about what makes a good rice salad, and there are as many variations on the recipe as there are […]
Discover five delicious reasons to visit Modena… 1. Beautiful balsamic vinegar Modena is a favourite with gastronomes for many reasons, but one of its greatest attractions has to be its world-acclaimed balsamic vinegar. The DOP product has been made in the city since the Middle Ages, and unlike ordinary vinegar is made from reduced grape […]
Griddled chicken skewers, or, spiedini are a popular summer treat to cook and eat outside… Spiedini, to give them their Italian name, are a firm favourite in Italy over the summer months. They don’t require indoor cooking and can be easily prepared in advance. They are cooked and sold at practically every festival throughout the country and […]
Use fresh, seasonal vegetables to make this Pinzimonio starter a summertime stunner… You could barely call this a recipe, pinzimonio is more of an ensemble. Yet, it is a dish widely enjoyed in Italy, especially at the height of summer when vegetables are at their best. The joy of this dish is in the selection. […]
Gelato alla fragola velocissima Mario Matassa was given this strawberry ice cream recipe years back at the restaurant by a fellow chef when sparks started shooting from the back of the ice cream machine, which is not supposed to happen. The problem with most recipes for homemade ice cream made without the benefit of a […]
Mozzarella in carrozza Mozzarella in carrozza is a tasty treat born in Napoli, which has become particularly popular in Venice. Like an elevated version of the classic grilled cheese (or toastie, if you prefer), this sandwich features fresh mozzarella, and is fried in a delicious golden batter. For true Venetian style, add a slice of […]
Venice is well-loved for its amazing architecture and winding canals. But if that’s not enough, here are five fabulous foods and drinks that will convince you to visit Venice… 5 foodie reasons to visit Venice: 1. To feast on risi e bisi If you visit Venice in the springtime, one dish not to miss is risi […]
Macedonia con crema chantilly all’italiana Over the summer, it pays to take advantage of the wonderful supply of fresh seasonal fruits. One of my favourite desserts has always been a simple bowl of fresh strawberries with a generous dollop of Chantilly cream. But I also love Italian crema pasticcera (their version of custard, you could […]
Zuppa di pesce There’s something about fish soup that gives it the ‘wow’ factor. The key is good quality fresh fish and adding them according to their respective cooking times. One of the sheer joys of this dish is that not only does it look spectacular but it’s a dish you can dig in and […]