Stuffed Calamari (known in Italy as Calamari Ripieni) is one of those classic Italian dishes that every region seems to claim as its own. It would make sense that it would originate in a seaside town, but the first known recipe was actually found in a collection of Roman recipes dating back to the 5th century. Unlike carbonara, for example, calamari ripieni is extremely versatile, drawing from the fact that each region uses its own local flavors for the stuffing. Although mediterranean flavors are generally used, in Liguria you may find a spinach stuffing, whereas in Sicily you’re more likely to find anchovies and cheese. No matter how you make it, the end result is always a plate wiped clean!
Tag Archives | italian food blogger
Chicken Bites Cacciatore
You’ve probably heard of chicken cacciatora (or more likely you’ve seen it as “cacciatore”). But, what does it mean? Thought to have originated during the Italian Renaissance, it literally translates as “hunter’s chicken,” as wild herbs, plants, and mushrooms were tossed in the pan along with the catch of the day. It’s a typical recipe popular in Italian cooking and can be prepared in multiple ways. We love it because not only is it easy to prepare, it is full of flavor. Make sure to have your scarpetta, or bread slice, ready – you’re going to want to mop up every last drop!
Zeppole – Zippoli Calabrese
Zeppole calabresi are divine savoury donuts on high demand in our household! This zeppole recipe uses the traditional Calabrian method, taught to us by Nonna Maria. She has been making her family drool for these for years and while the original is with anchovies, there is a caprese surprise in store for you too. Make these fresh with your family and friends and eat them hot on a special occasion. No one will dream at stopping at one when you recreate this zeppole recipe.
Cacio e Pepe
Cacio e pepe recipe is the original mac and cheese. This simple cacio e pepe recipe, originating in Rome uses four main ingredients but there are a few techniques to make it simply spectacular.
Spaghetti Carbonara
Spaghetti carbonara – original and approved by Romans! Before we start, the number one rule is simple –REAL SPAGHETTI CARBONARA RECIPE IS MADE WITH EGGS, NOT CREAM!
Combine fresh eggs, with crispy guanciale, salty pecorino cheese and pepper to create the perfect, classic Roman pasta dish, Carbonara. In this video recipe, I tested out my traditional version with some locals from Rome and they loved it! Make this classic the right way and I promise, your tastebuds will thank you.
Butternut Squash Soup
Butternut squash soup is a wholesome, delicious meal, and each family has their own version – now, here’s one with a twist! Join me along with Emmy nominated recording artist Alfio from NYC as we turn the traditional pumpkin soup recipe into an Italian inspired one – you might be surprised by some of our special ingredients!
Vegetarian Lasagna
Vegetarian lasagna is an alternative to the traditional meat filled version and it’s still jam-packed with flavour! My version includes zucchini, capsicum, mushrooms, carrot and celery, but you can mix in your favourites…the real secret is in the sauce, which incorporates my traditional passata, with creamy ricotta, adding a whole new excitement factor for your tastebuds.
Polenta Abruzzo Style
Polenta Recipe is a hearty, classic Northern Italian dish. This polenta is my Nonna’s version, made using cornmeal only and topped with a hearty sausage ragu. This polenta recipe is bold and rich in flavour and was traditionally served spread onto the middle of the table so everyone could dig in and get their portion.
Basil Pesto
Basil Pesto is the second most used sauce in the world, originating from a beautiful Italian city called Genoa. In this recipe, I’ll show you how simple it is to make pesto either by hand or in just a few minutes using a hand held blender.
Mushroom Risotto
Mushroom risotto is a traditional dish from Northern Italy that makes mouths water all over the world. But what are the tricks to making it perfect?
