an italian cook around the world
Pastitsio is one of the most worldwide popular and controversial Greek recipes. The origin of this delicious Greek baked ziti is probably Italian, then revisited by the famous chef Nikolaos Tselementes under the influence of the French cuisine. Here the traditional recipe and the history of Pastitsio!
Santorini Fava, also called Greek Fava, is a simple, healthy, and delicious Greek appetizer. This dish is not famous outside Greece, but it is incredibly popular in Greece, and an essential part of Meze: the famous selection of small plates shared during the traditional Greek meal. The yellow peas are cooked along with onions, garlic, and fresh herbs, then mashed until smooth and silky: so tasty!
Greek Fasolakia is a typical peasant dish rich in vegetables, and traditionally vegan! These stir-fried vegetables are part of the ancient tradition of Greek braised vegetables called Lathera, and served as the main dish of a light lunch, or among other small plates during the Greek Mezes. Here the recipe of Fasolakia!
Steak Tartare is a classic recipe in many cuisines, from Europe to Levantine countries. Probably the most famous Tartare originates from France (here the recipe), but to season raw meat the sky is the limit! Here a particular Tartare made with the typical Mediterranean flavors!
Spanakopita is a tasty Greek savory pie filled with spinach, eggs, and feta, daily served as snack, appetizer or light lunch, and particularly appreciated by the kids! This spinach and feta pie has ancient root and probably has been influenced by the Ottoman cuisine. Here the Spanakopita recipe and history!
Greek Pita bread is an ingredient always present in my fridge or my freezer. This recipe is very simple to prepare and easy to store and reheat. I love to pair Pita with my preferred appetizers and salads, or filling it with roasted meats, or simply seasoning with olive oil, oregano and sea salt! Whether it is breakfast, lunch or dinner, every time is Pita time!
Roasted bell peppers hummus is a recipe you want to prepare for your parties: made with precooked Garbanzo beans, this recipe is very easy to make, but at least once in your life try it with dried beans! Compared to the traditional hummus I eliminated the lemon juice and added bell peppers and goat cheese. Tahini is a delicious traditional ingredient for hummus, but in case it is not available, try to replace it with half amount of peanuts butter: delicious!
Barcelona is a city where I wish to live! I visited the Catalan Capitol for the first time in 1989, and since that journey, it was love at first sight, or better at first bite. Sun, sea, historical monuments and delicious food: I wouldn’t have it any other way! This city is magic, and I try to go back there whenever it’s possible. Here a short list of the best Catalan dishes and where I ate them during my last visit in Barcelona: enjoy!
Braciole recipe Neapolitan-style is a dish that ran the history of the Southern-Italian cuisine! The ingredients of this delicious rolled meat come from the Ancient Greece, via the discovering of America and the French domination of the territory around Naples. The meat is filled with cured prosciutto, raisins, pine nuts, and cheese, then seared and slow cooked in a tasty tomatoes sauce. To complete the recipe as the tradition requires, toss the pasta with the sauce and serve it as first course. The meat will be a fantastic second course, a complete meal to depict an authentic feast Italian-style!
I really like hummus: it’s easy, it’s tasty, and it’s perfect to be shared with friends as an appetizer or a chips dip at a party!. Here my version of the traditional hummus with tahini and sumac, ingredients that can be found in ethnic food shops. This recipe is very fast if an exception is made for cooking chickpeas: alternatively use those pre-cooked, even if the flavor will be less intense.
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