Befanini are traditional Tuscan Christmas cookies made to celebrate the legend of La Befana. These buttery cut-out cookies have a simple, melt-in-the-mouth pasta frolla base, gently flavoured with rum, vanilla and lemon zest, then decorated with festive sprinkles. La Befana is an Italian folk figure — a kindly witch who, on the night of January … Read more
The most delicious Amaretto Red Wine Poached Pears are gently simmered with cinnamon, cloves, star anise and orange peel, then served with a light Amaretto whipped cream. This elegant yet simple dessert fills the kitchen with warm, festive aromas and is perfect after a large holiday meal. If you want a dessert that tastes like … Read more
Chocolate Hazelnut Torrone, known as Torrone dei Morti, is a traditional Neapolitan sweet served in early November for All Souls’ Day. This indulgent chocolate bar has a crisp dark chocolate shell and a soft, creamy hazelnut centre. It’s surprisingly simple to make with just four main ingredients and is perfect for gifting or for the … Read more
A rich, indulgent chocolate tart made with a homemade chocolate shortcrust pastry, a smooth and decadent chocolate pastry cream, and finished with chopped hazelnuts. This is the ultimate dessert for chocolate lovers. Intensely chocolatey, rich, and silky, this tart is one of my favourites. The base is an Italian-style chocolate pasta frolla (shortcrust pastry) that’s … Read more
Italian Sweet Shortcrust Pastry (Pasta Frolla) is quick and simple to make and forms the base for many cookies, pies and tarts such as Torta della Nonna or an Italian crostata (jam tart). Follow the step-by-step photos and video guide to make perfect pasta frolla every time.
Green beans simmered with olives and capers in a simple garlic and tomato sauce. This quick, flavour-packed side takes about 30 minutes and pairs beautifully with chicken, fish or grilled meats. It also travels well for barbecues and picnics. I love green beans in tomato sauce — a classic Italian side — and wanted a … Read more
A creamy zucchini pasta made with garlic, fresh basil and soft Italian Stracchino cheese, finished with crispy pancetta. Easy to make and ready in about 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for using summer zucchini and delivers big flavour with minimal effort. In warm months I prefer quick, exciting pasta dishes — this creamy zucchini … Read more
Delicious penne pasta tossed with crispy pancetta, creamy ricotta and a simple, flavourful tomato sauce. This comforting recipe is easy to prepare and can be on the table in about 20 minutes. I love ricotta-based pasta sauces for their silky texture and subtle tang. This version combines pancetta, red wine and passata for a rich, … Read more
Italian Baked Chicken Thighs – Crispy, juicy oven-baked chicken thighs flavored with fresh rosemary, sage and dried oregano. Simple to prepare and perfect for a low-prep, one-pan weeknight dinner. I often make baked chicken thighs when I want an effortless, satisfying meal. Thighs stay tender and juicy, and they take well to a variety of … Read more
Gnocchi Carbonara is an easy, comforting dish featuring pillowy gnocchi tossed in a classic carbonara-style sauce. Rich, salty and creamy, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal at home. If you love traditional carbonara, swapping spaghetti for gnocchi is a delightful variation. The soft, starchy gnocchi helps create an extra-creamy sauce … Read more