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Mountain Gold: Tortelli di Zucca
Some dishes become part of your story even if they never appeared on your own family table. Tortelli di zucca is one of those for me. Jump to Recipe . Jump to Wine Pairing . It is deeply rooted in the cooking of Parma and the surrounding countryside of the Alta Val Taro, the same mountainous area my family comes from. In this part of Emilia Romagna, pumpkin filled pasta is not a novelty or a seasonal trend. It is simply part of the landscape, part of the rhythm of how peo
TheVineKat311
7 hours ago5 min read


Homemade Pizza: Duck, Duck, Goat Cheese
I have been making pizza at home since before my oldest child was born, and she is now in her mid thirties. Over time, it has gone from something that felt ambitious to something that feels instinctive. With a little practice, homemade pizza becomes not only easy, but deeply satisfying. It is one of those things that reminds you how much pleasure there is in slowing down and making food with your hands. Jump to Pizza Recipe . Jump to Wine Pairing . This particular pizza c
TheVineKat311
Dec 18, 20258 min read


Plant Power: Bangin' Vegan Chili
(Trust me, you won’t miss the meat.) This recipe came to life during the period when my daughters were vegan, and I was determined to...
TheVineKat311
Oct 11, 20254 min read


Little Pillows of Southern Soul: Cavatelli
Growing up, cavatelli was not something I saw on my grandparents’ table. My family roots stretch deep into the mountains of northern Italy, the land of butter, Parmigiano, and filled pastas like tortelli and anolini in brodo. I think my first experience with cavatelli might have been at an aunt’s house or perhaps at a small neighborhood restaurant. It is also possible that it happened on Arthur Avenue in the Bronx. If you've never been you should go! It seems beautifully
TheVineKat311
Oct 11, 20256 min read


Parma in Sonoma: Tortelli d'Erbetta "On the Road"
Nestled in the heart of Emilia-Romagna, my Italian roots meander through the mountains of Alto Val Taro in the province of Parma. Here, Tortelli d'Erbetta is not just a dish; it's a celebration of local flavors and traditions served in every restaurant. Traditionally crafted with a mix of ricotta and Parmigiano Reggiano, these delectable parcels incorporate bitter greens—typically Swiss chard—and a pinch of nutmeg. Each tortelli is then lovingly bathed in melted butter an
TheVineKat311
Jul 17, 20246 min read


From Greece to Italy: Astoria Artichokes
Ah, the artichoke: a thorny yet beguiling beauty, dividing dinner tables into camps of adoration and disdain. My own love affair with artichokes stretches back to childhood, where many a friend was converted at our kitchen table. Ready for a recipe that could sway even the staunchest skeptic? Let's dive in! Jump to Stuffed Artichoke Recipe Jump to The Wine Pairings for this Recipe Download a PDF of this Recipe A quick backstory, because every recipe has its tale: my grandm
TheVineKat311
Jul 13, 20246 min read


Tradition Meets Innovation: Perennial Pesto
There’s something magical about the resilience of perennial herbs. Year after year, they push through the soil, unfazed by the seasons, bringing life and flavor back to our kitchens. Today, we’re diving into the wonderful world of perennial pesto, a vibrant and versatile twist on the classic sauce, using herbs like lemon balm, mint, oregano, and even the prickly yet nutritious stinging nettle. Jump to Pesto Recipes Jump to Wine Pairing Suggestions Jump to 20 Ways to Use Pes
TheVineKat311
May 23, 20246 min read


For the Love of Torta: My Ultimate Comfort Food
If you've never heard of Torta d’Erbe, Torta di Patate, or Torta di Zucca, you're not alone. Many Italian Americans might scratch their...
TheVineKat311
Apr 20, 202411 min read


Embrace the Wild: Nettle Ravioli Delights Await!
As spring paints its vibrant canvas across the landscape, the culinary world eagerly anticipates the emergence of fresh and adventurous...
TheVineKat311
Apr 6, 20248 min read
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