Banana, Rhubarb, & Diplomat Cream Madeira Cake
This was a last minute improvisation cake after I was offered some rhubarb and quite frankly, I did not know what to do with it as I never used it in any of my recipes before. When I decided to make a cake, I did not want to do it from scratch. And so I bought one of my favourite sponge cakes to satisfy my … Continue reading Banana, Rhubarb, & Diplomat Cream Madeira Cake
The Aperitif, Italians’ Quintessential Drink
Why the aperitif is such a symbol of Italian cuisine and its connection to Ancient Rome. Let’s explore this unique drink together. Continue reading The Aperitif, Italians’ Quintessential Drink
Spaghetti “Aglio e Olio” My Way
Sometimes the easiest pasta sauces are just the best. In this case, the extra virgin olive oil is the star of this recipe as it is the main ingredient and therefore, it has to be of a very good brand. Although a fairly large quantity goes in the pot, it is not oily to the palate. This is by far one of my favourite ways … Continue reading Spaghetti “Aglio e Olio” My Way
Pasta Amatriciana
Named by the Italian government a traditional agro-alimentary product, pasta all’amatriciana (or matriciana) is a traditional pasta sauce prepared in Roman taverns made primarily with Italian guanciale (cured meat made from port cheek), tomato sauce and pecorino cheese. The combination of these ingredients creates a unique flavour and it’s simply scrumptious. Here is my husband’s recipe for all of you to enjoy. Buon appetito! 🙂 … Continue reading Pasta Amatriciana
Venezuelan Asado Negro
My husband prepared this dish for me to celebrate my birthday; it is now one of my favourite alternative ways of cooking a roast joint. This is a full-flavoured hearty meal for family, friends, or a special occasion, and it’s simply divine! Serves 4 people Ingredients 1 cup brown sugar 500 ml dry red wine (a good brand makes the difference) 1 kg beef bottom-round roast … Continue reading Venezuelan Asado Negro
Pan-fried Italian Style Patties
In Italy, we call them polpette (meatballs) and this version is one of my favourite way of eating them! Soft and super tasty on the inside and crispy on the outside. Best served with roasted potatoes or a simple salad, your family will fall in love with this recipe. I buy the family pack steak mince because on weekdays, I don’t have much time to … Continue reading Pan-fried Italian Style Patties
Hubby’s Homemade Double Cheeseburger
My husband loves to try out new recipes and this one is definitely one of my favourites. I like my cheeseburger thin cut, with a bit of crunch on the outside but tender on the inside. My husband loves the big patty cooked rare. I always go for the 5% fat lean beef. Some say that if it is not fatty and greasy, it is … Continue reading Hubby’s Homemade Double Cheeseburger
Three Dip Fried Pizza
Like many dishes of Italian tradition, fried pizza (or Masardona) has a poor origin and was born in Naples during the second world war. Traditionally, it was prepared at home by pizza chefs, kneaded by the men and fried by the women. Then it was sold on the streets. This was the beginning of the so-called “popular street food”. There are many versions of this … Continue reading Three Dip Fried Pizza
Chard Rolls with Ground Turkey in Tomato Sauce
This dish was introduced to me by my mother-in-law from Venezuela and I quickly fell in love with it! Serve it with your favourite rice or fresh bread. A dish perfect for the whole family. And don’t forget to do the “scarpetta” (it literally means sopping up the sauce left on your plate with bread) with this delicious sauce! 😊 With this recipe you can … Continue reading Chard Rolls with Ground Turkey in Tomato Sauce
Pink Sauce Tortiglioni
Tortiglioni will always be one of my favourite types of pasta and they are perfect for pink sauce. It is creamy and the perfect alternative to the standard tomato sauce. Your kids will love it! Instead of pasta, you could try it also with gnocchi (potato dumplings). Tip: Instead of adding just parmesan, try the mix with pecorino or get salted ricotta which is firm … Continue reading Pink Sauce Tortiglioni
Cooking with Lilia 