Finding myself going through the chills of winter in Melbourne, knowing that the northern hemisphere is now enjoying a hot, steamy summer, doesn’t always come easy. For a European girl like me the months of June, July and August are instantly associated with hot weather, drinks by the beach, seafood eaten with bare, sandy hands….
Tag: extra virgin olive oil
Home-made Dried Chili Oil
Home-growing is an occupation that I leave entirely to my green-thumbed husband. It’s not that I don’t see the appeal of gardening and I’m not attracted to such rewarding labour, but I must admit I was born with a black thumb. I don’t seem to have inherited my mum’s natural flare for all things green and I…
Basil-Infused EVOO (Extra Virgin Olive Oil)
This may well be the easiest recipe ever. Grab some good quality EVOO, a generous handful of fresh basil, and there’s your green-hued bottle of goodness ready for you. To be just a tad more specific: In a large pot, bring 500 ml (1 pint, 2 cups) of EVOO and 1 cup of loosely packed…
Spaghetti cooked Risotto-Style
A few nights ago, I had dinner at my cousin Elena’s house in Milan. She is the sweetest, most gorgeous girl, but, notoriously, she can’t cook to save her life! Lucky for all the guests, she also invited her bother Giorgio along, who was born with the cooking gene. Giorgio has always been a flamboyant wine connoisseur…
Polpette della Nonna (the very humble meatballs)
How many of you recall that famous scene from Disney’s “Lady and the Tramp”,when, as they fall in love by the suave notes of “Bella notte” being played on the mandolin, the dogs share a strand of spaghetto and Tramp nudges the last meatball over to Lady, as his promise of love and devotion? Everytime I…
Spaghetti Vongole (Spaghetti with Clams and White Wine)
Spaghetti vongole is one on the most popular Italian classics. I can recall countless summers spent in the Adriatic coast, having a bowl of this wonderful pasta most days, without ever getting bored with it. This is my brother’s Gianmarco’s recipe for Spaghetti Vongole and it really sets the standard for me. The sauce will cook while…
Silvia Colloca 