Monthly Archives: August 2011
Porcini Risotto
Since my mother brought back some beautiful dried porcini from Italy a couple of weeks ago, I’m using them in risotto tonight. These porcini are so plump, meaty and supple, they’re almost as delicate as fresh ones, although they have … Continue reading
Pasta with Zucchini and Sicilian Tomato Pesto
I can’t use up the cherry tomatoes from Beppi’s garden quickly enough. This is my version of a pesto that’s made in Sicily when cherry tomatoes are at their peak, and it’s one of the simplest, most luxurious ways to … Continue reading
Hurricane Eve Dinner
We’re expecting the storm to hit after midnight this evening, so I’m trying to (continue to) make constructive use of what’s in my freezer and fridge. In my freezer are 2 thick slices of wonderful lamb meatloaf. In the fridge are … Continue reading
Ham and Provolone Panini
While waiting for a hurricane to hit, what better thing to do than devise dishes to help clean out my fridge/freezer. In the event we lose power, I’d like to use as much as possible as quickly as possible. A … Continue reading
Mom’s Pollo alla Cacciatore
Chicken cacciatore has many variations both in the United States and in Italy. Simply translated, it means “hunters’ style chicken”. Generally, it implies a moist, stewy dish, made with chicken parts, plus wine and herbs. Sometimes sweet peppers are added; … Continue reading
Melanzane Ripieno
Stuffed Eggplant is another in my series of recipes from my mom during her visit with me this week. Although this dish is native to my mother’s hometown in Calabria, it is one that is made with many different variations … Continue reading
Pesce in Umido
I can always count on my mother to give me culinary inspiration. While at the fish market without any direction, I spotted tilefish–a local fish in eastern Long Island–similar to striped bass. The filets were thick, meaty and a nice … Continue reading
Zia Lucia’s Zucchini and Mint Salad
This is a salad that reminds my mom of her Aunt Lucia, who used to live in Cosenza, a small city in Calabria. Only my mother’s aunt used to make this salad for her–my grandmother never cared to make it. … Continue reading
Pasta with Savoy Cabbage
Although I think of cabbage as a fall and winter vegetable, the early crop is now in farmstands in my area, and it is sweet and delicate (no unpleasant odor while cooking these). Savoy cabbage is more delicate than green cabbage and I always … Continue reading
Summer Minestrone
On a wet and rainy Sunday, even in summer, a bowl of soup always satisfies. A minestrone that makes full use of summer squashes and tomatoes is quick and easy to make and a great vehicle for a dollop of … Continue reading
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