Sicily, Calabria, Campania, Basilicata, Apulia, Abruzzo, Molise, and Lazio are well-known for their iconic, mouth-watering dishes. In this delicious exploration, Italian American author Bill Abruzzo dishes up the tastes of his family’s heritage. From the tranquil vineyards of Frascati near Rome to the bustling city of Palermo with its Byzantine and Arab influenced architecture, this personal tour blends anecdote, family, and food in a savory combination and finishes at Abruzzo’s own farm in Virginia.
Sit down to antipasti like Mozzarella in Carozza (fried cheese pockets) and Bruschetta con Insalata Tropeana (grilled bread topped with tomatoes, olives, and capers). Pasta, gnocchi, and couscous burst with flavors such as prosciutto, sundried tomatoes, and Pecorino Romano cheese. Recipes for calamari, mussels, swordfish, and more teem with the fresh taste of the Mediterranean. No Italian journey would be complete without pizza. From the classic Pizza Margherita to Pizza alla Tropea, topped with sweet onions and anchovies, each region has its own specialty. Molise’s famous Taralli (fennel seed biscuits) and classic Foccacia from Apulia are savory delights that make a perfect snack. Soups, salads, meats, and more offer endless meals and inspiration. To finish your meal, linger over a slice of Torta di Ricotta con Ciliege (ricotta cake with cherries) and sip a glass on limoncello (citrus liqueur). With convivial stories from the hearts and hearths of Southern Italy and Sicily, this cookbook will have a cherished place in your kitchen.