an italian cook around the world
Panelle is one of the most Iconic Sicilian street food recipes! These chickpeas flour fritters are simple to make, rich in history and taste. Panelle are traditionally fried then served into a Sesame roll, a typical scene in the Markets of the city of Palermo! Born as a food for poor people, Pannelle have been conquered the palate of all the social classes: from the poorest to the noblest! Here the traditional recipe and the origin of Panelle!
Probably, the Greek dolmades are the most worldwide famous stuffed grape leaves rolls! These delicious roulades filled with a traditionally vegan mix of rice, onions, and herbs, are popular, with some variations, not only in Greece, but also in several other regions of the Middle Eastern, Turkic, and Balkans areas. I love to serve Dolmades as an appetizer, or into a selection of small plates for my parties. Here the recipe and the history of Dolmades!
Penne alla Vodka is one of the most iconic recipes of the 80s. The origin of this popular dish is uncertain and controversial: Italy and the United States claim both its creation. Besides the origin of Penne alla Vodka, if you never tasted this recipe, it’s time to give it a try. The pasta is tossed into a creamy Vodka sauce composed by pancetta, tomato puree, and heavy cream. Parmigiano Reggiano, black pepper and fresh parsley complete this delicious dish. Here the recipe and the history!
The Sole Meuniere is the French recipe I remember most in my childhood. This simple recipe is a wonderful way to introduce fish into your kid’s diet! Sole Meuniere is also rich in history: its origin is dated at least at the time of King Louis XIV, and likely more ancient! The sole is floured then pan-fried into butter flavored with lemon, then garnished with fresh parsley and pepper: delicious!
Carciofi alla Romana is a classic of the Roman cuisine. This recipe, traditionally served as an appetizer or a side dish, is extremely tasty, healthy, and simple at the same time. The artichokes are seasoned with garlic and fresh herbs, then cooked until tender but still in shape: delicious!
The Ribollita is one of the most popular Italian bread soups. This historical recipe prepared in Tuscany since the Middle Ages, and came from the necessity to reuse the stale bead mixing it with the herbs and vegetables available in the garden: the result is simply delicious! To prepare an authentic Ribollita, Tuscan bread, Lacinato kale and beans are essential ingredients: a traditionally vegan delight!
The Lyonnaise Potatoes is a popular French recipe, tasty and easy to prepare. The potatoes are previously roasted into the butter, then baked with caramelized onions and finished with fresh herbs. This vegetarian side pairs perfectly with roasted meats and white fish, but also with eggs recipe. Many chefs prefers to pan-fry the potatoes, but I prefer to bake them before finishing in a cast iron skillet.
Pasta Fagioli recipe is very popular in Italy, and every region owns its local variation. The Venetian version of the bean soup is one of the most ancient and rich in history. Traditionally the Venetian Pasta Fagioli is strongly linked with the annual ritual of the slaughter of the pigs. For centuries Pasta Fagioli has fed the farmers families, reusing the cheap cuts of pork. Nowadays, the Venetian Pasta a Fagioli is considered a classic of the Italian cuisine either in its traditional recipe and reinvented by famous contemporary Chefs. Here the recipe and history, don’t miss it!
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a traditional Neapolitan dish become a symbol of the Italian cuisine, thanks to its simplicity and deliciousness! This recipe is a poor variation of the classic Linguine with clams and was the only option for who couldn’t afford to buy richer ingredients. Beyond its modest origin, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a temptation to try: easy to make and tasty!
Salmoriglio is an ancient, Italian marinade and dressing. Thanks to its sour, lemony flavor it helps to tenderize fish, meats, and vegetables giving them a delicious taste! Here, the history and the recipe.
