Asparagus Risotto

1 pound asparagus, peeled, trimmed and cut into one-inch-long pieces, tips reserved 4 to 6 cups chicken or vegetable stock 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 3 tablespoons butter ½ cup onion, diced 1 1/2 cups Arborio or Carnaroli rice 1/2 cup dry white wine 1 lemon zest and juice Salt to taste 1/2 cup … Continue reading Asparagus Risotto

Zucchini and Eggplant Salad

3 medium zucchini1 eggplant, peeled into strips1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil2 small garlic cloves finely chopped2 tablespoons chopped parsley¼ teaspoons salt or to taste Cut the zucchini and eggplant into thin strips. Place them in a colander and sprinkle salt all over to help drain liquid from them. Pat dry with paper towels. Heat up a large, non-stick griddle or pan on … Continue reading Zucchini and Eggplant Salad

Parmigiana di Zucchini

3 or 4 firm zucchini, sliced 1/4 inch thick 1 ½ tablespoon sea salt 3 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil2 pounds of your favorite tomato sauce (or my simple tomato sauce recipe from my eggplant parmigiana here)1/2 cup asiago cheese, grated1 cup Parmigiano Reggiano, grated1 pound low-moisture mozzarella, shredded To prepare the zucchini, sprinkle eggplants all over … Continue reading Parmigiana di Zucchini

Limoncello, Mandarinetto and other citrus Italian liquors

Winter, when citrus are in season and at the best of their flavor, is my favorite time to make limoncello. In that way I can preserve its refreshing flavor and enjoy it all year round. Limoncello is a traditional, lemon-flavored, southern-Italian dessert liqueur that is often served chilled as “digestivo” after a meal. It is … Continue reading Limoncello, Mandarinetto and other citrus Italian liquors