La Festa Della Mamma

In Italy Mother’s Day is celebrated on the same day as most other countries. Contrary to some theories circulating online, there is no connection to some ancient Roman tradition or Pagan ritual (that’s ok, Italians couldn’t invent EVERYTHING right?). The day is a little less…commercialized, and more subdued compared to North America, mothers are usually treated to a nice dinner

Know your Olive Oil

Olive oil is perhaps THE cornerstone of Italian cuisine and has been used for thousands of years. Olive trees are abundant in Italy and also all across the Mediterranean. However, not all olive oils are created equal. In fact, there are several different types and grades of olive oil, each with its own unique flavour,

Guide to Parmigiano Reggiano: King of Cheeses

Known for a good reason as the King of Cheeses, Parmigiano Reggiano is a major protagonist at dinner tables worldwide. Although little has changed since it was first produced over a thousand years ago, its popularity, versatility, and relevance to current-day dinner tables have never been greater. History We owe a lot of thanks to

Charcuterie

“A bunch of cold meat and cheese on a wooden board” say the critics, but charcuterie boards (or “salumi” boards in the home country) have skyrocketed in popularity in recent years and now the joy Italian, French, and other Europeans enjoyed can be shared with the world. In this blog we’re going to talk about

Italian Christmas Traditions and Food: Celebrate Like a Local

Prepare for a Whole Month of Festivities Christmas holidays in Italy start with the Day of Immaculate Conception on December 8th. This Catholic holiday celebrates the conception of the Virgin Mary as free from sin because she was conceived immaculately. Despite the religious nature of this day, many families use this free day to get

Traditional Italian Christmas Desserts

Every Sunday in Italy is proof that Italians know the value of gathering together—over a delicious meal of course—with family and friends. When the holidays arrive, the table is usually a bit bigger and the menu enhanced with special dishes, many that only appear during the holidays. Nowhere is this tastier than with the traditional