Author: Lisa
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Bolognese sauce
We were first introduce to Bolognese sauce in Bologna, Italy, of course. It’s a meat-based sauce typically served with tagliatelle or in lasagna. I tell everyone that making this sauce is a labor of love as it takes 2-3 hours to prepare because the meat must absorb so many liquids; however, I promise it is… Read more
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Fresh pasta
Once you get accustomed to fresh pasta, it is so much lighter and more delicious than packed pasta, you’ll have a hard time going back unless you are pressed for time. This recipe is for 2-3 servings, but can be easily doubled (or tripled). Full disclosure, I started making pasta with a hand crank pasta… Read more
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Pots, pans and bakeware for life (a.k.a. do not buy a set, ever!)
I wish I could have back all of the money I wasted over the years buying cheap sets of pots, pans and bakeware. Had I slowly built a quality collection over time, I would have been much better off in the long run. However, investing in quality pieces when we were starting out felt daunting.… Read more
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Pizza
Pizza at home is a family favorite. We prefer a more authentic Italian version of pizza with a thin, crispy crust. The best part of this recipe is that we can make the pizza dough anytime and freeze it in smaller portions. When we are traveling, I knead the dough by hand, but my trusty… Read more
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Bologna Italy
There are so many wonderful places to visit in Italy that Bologna may not be on your radar; however, it is truly a gem. Bologna is nicknamed “La Grassa” (the fat) because it is famous for its food. We’ve had some of the best meals of our lives there – and, if you’re a foodie… Read more
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How we got three kids through college on the cheap
Admittedly, we didn’t set out to do this consciously, but having three kids within 15 months (twins and a singleton soon after) makes you start to think (and worry) early on. In the end, we were very, very fortunate. We’ve had several friends describing the hundreds of thousands of dollars they’ve invested in their childrens’… Read more
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Calabrian chicken
This is a newer dish in our family and it has quickly risen in the ranks to a top five favorite. A few year ago, we had a similar dish at a restaurant and I was determined to replicate it. Calabrian chilis in oil are a game changer. They add depth and heat without overpowering… Read more
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No knead bread (overnight)
We rarely buy bread anymore because I tend to bake fresh bread every 3-4 days. This recipe, adapted from Sullivan Street Bakers, is so easy and takes hardly any time. You just have to remember to begin the preparation the night before. Because there are just two of us at home these days, I form… Read more
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Risotto
Risotto is a staple in our family. It’s especially great with chicken and fish or seafood. Take Stanley Tucci’s advice though, and don’t serve it too runny. I adapted this recipe from the Everyday Italian cookbook by Giada De Laurentis. You can add just about anything to risotto (e.g., mushrooms, peas, asparagus), but I prefer… Read more
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Lucca Italy
I’ve been fortunate to visit Lucca, Italy, more times than I can count, and every time I go I find something more to enjoy about it. We typically stay at the Albergo Celide, a lovely and reasonably priced hotel just outside of the walled city. Start your day with breakfast at the hotel and be… Read more