Author: Tommaso De Poi

2024 Wrapped: Our Top 5 Most Traveled Destinations

Posted on by Tommaso De Poi

2024 Wrapped: Out Top 5 Most Traveled Destinations

Discover the enchanting allure of Italy as we explore our 2024 top five most traveled destinations: Join us as we relive Sicily's rugged beauty, Piedmont's culinary delights, Milan's fashion-forward pulse, Mantua's historical charm, and Naples' vibrant energy. Take a look back with us and reminisce with us as we celebrate the diverse landscapes and rich cultural tapestry that make these destinations a timeless favorite for travelers.

Discover Italy's 2024 Travel Hotspots: 

As we reflect on 2024, Italy's charm continues to captivate travelers, drawing them to its diverse landscapes and rich cultural tapestry. This year, five destinations stood out as favorites, each offering a unique blend of history, beauty, and unforgettable experiences. From the sunlit island of Sicily to the regal palaces in Piedmont, the bustling fashion hub of Milan, the Renaissance allure of Mantua, and the vibrant streets of Naples, these places have left a lasting impression on those who explored them. Join us as we recap the highlights and cherished moments from these remarkable locations, celebrating the stories and adventures that made 2024 a memorable year in Italy.

Campania_Capri_People_Family_Boat_Faraglioni

SICILY

Sicily, the Mediterranean's largest island, naturally claims the top spot. Its rugged mountains, the grandeur of Mt. Etna, and stunning coastlines, make it a prime destination for variety-seeking travelers. From exploring UNESCO sites to savoring granita in charming piazzas, Sicily offers it all. Its strategic location has made it a cultural crossroads, with Greek, Roman, Arab, Norman, and Spanish influences evident in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Cities like Palermo, Syracuse, and Cefalu offer thriving experiences with ancient ruins, diverse architectural styles, and vibrant markets.

 

In Palermo, the capital city, visitors are greeted with a vibrant mix of history and modernity. The bustling Ballarò Market offers a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells, where one can taste local delicacies like arancini and cannoli. Meanwhile, the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento stands as a testament to Sicily's ancient Greek heritage, with its well-preserved Doric temples set against a backdrop of olive groves and rolling hills.

PIEDMONT

Nestled in northern Italy, Piedmont borders Switzerland and France, with the majestic Alps as a backdrop. Known for its royal architecture, medieval towns, rolling hills, and expansive vineyards, Piedmont's landscapes contribute to its rich culinary traditions. The region is famous for producing truffles, hazelnuts, and artisanal cheese, perfectly paired with fine wines like Barolo and Barbaresco. Turin, the Langhe countryside, and Alba are must-visit locales, with Langhe being a haven for wine enthusiasts and Alba's White Truffle Fair offering a seasonal culinary delight.

 

Turin, the elegant capital of Piedmont, is a city of grand boulevards and baroque architecture. The Mole Antonelliana, a towering symbol of the city, offers panoramic views that stretch to the snow-capped Alps. In the Langhe region, vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see, producing some of Italy's most celebrated wines. Visitors can indulge in wine tastings and truffle hunts, immersing themselves in the region's gastronomic heritage.

Piedmont_Langhe_Food_grinzane_cavour_Castle_Wineyard

MILAN

Milan, a bustling metropolis in northern Italy, is the second-largest city and a global leader in fashion and design. It seamlessly blends historic charm with modern innovation, featuring iconic landmarks like the Duomo di Milano. As a fashion capital, Milan hosts the historic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, home to luxury brands such as Armani, Prada, Dior, and Gucci. Milan's art scene is equally impressive, with La Scala opera house and Santa Maria delle Grazie among its many cultural offerings. Districts like Porta Venezia, Ticinese, and Brera provide historical wonders and unique shopping and dining experiences.

The city's vibrant energy is palpable during Milan Fashion Week, where the world's top designers showcase their latest collections. Beyond fashion, Milan is a city of art and culture. The Last Supper, Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece, resides in the refectory of Santa Maria delle Grazie, drawing art lovers from around the globe. In the Brera district, cobblestone streets lead to charming cafes and art galleries, offering a glimpse into Milan's bohemian side.

Lombardy_Milan_Kids_Cathedral_Playing_Doves_People

MANTUA

Renowned for its rich history and stunning architecture, Mantua is strategically located between Verona and Bologna. Surrounded by three lakes, its picturesque setting and historical significance have earned it UNESCO World Heritage status. The city's cobblestone streets house architectural marvels like Giulio Romano's Palazzo Te, reflecting the influence of the Gonzaga family. Mantua's vibrant culture comes alive in festivals and cuisine, offering a less crowded, walkable experience that captures the essence of La Dolce Vita.

Mantua's charm lies in its ability to transport visitors back in time. The Palazzo Ducale, once the residence of the powerful Gonzaga family, is a labyrinth of frescoed rooms and grand halls. The city's cultural calendar is filled with events like the Festivaletteratura, a literary festival that attracts writers and thinkers from around the world. As the sun sets over the lakes, Mantua's beauty is illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere that lingers in the memory.

Lombardy_Mantua_Palazzo_Te_Art_Room_Titans_

NAPLES

Nestled between Mount Vesuvius and the Tyrrhenian Sea, Naples is a celebrated UNESCO site. Its narrow streets and bustling markets create a vibrant atmosphere. As one of the world's oldest continually inhabited cities, Naples boasts diverse architecture and iconic landmarks like Castel Nuovo. The city's culinary scene is a paradise for food lovers, offering classic Neapolitan pizza and fresh seafood. Naples also serves as a gateway to explore Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast, offering art, cuisine, and experiences for every traveler.

In Naples, history and modernity coexist in a lively tapestry. The Spaccanapoli, a straight and narrow street that cuts through the heart of the city, is a microcosm of Neapolitan life, bustling with street vendors, musicians, and artisans. The nearby ruins of Pompeii offer a haunting glimpse into the past, where the echoes of ancient Roman life are preserved in time. Along the Amalfi Coast, dramatic cliffs plunge into the azure sea, creating one of the world's most breathtaking coastal drives

As we close the chapter on 2024, the memories of Italy's enchanting regions linger, reminding us of the diverse beauty and cultural richness this country offers. From Sicily's rugged landscapes to Piedmont's culinary delights, Milan's fashion-forward pulse, Mantua's historical charm, and Naples' vibrant energy, each destination has woven its story into our travels. These experiences highlight Italy's timeless allure and inspire us to continue exploring its hidden gems and celebrated landmarks. As we look forward to new adventures, we carry the spirit of discovery and joy of experiencing Italy's wonders, eager to create more unforgettable memories in this beloved land.

The Rome 2025 Jubilee – A Spiritual and Travel Experience

Posted on by Tommaso De Poi

Embrace the Rome 2025 Jubilee: A Journey of Faith and Discovery

Discover the profound spiritual significance and vibrant cultural impact of the Rome 2025 Jubilee Year. As millions prepare to journey to the Eternal City, explore how this extraordinary event will shape travel experiences in Rome and beyond. Join us at Trips 2 Italy as we guide you through this unique moment in history, offering personalized insights and expert planning for your unforgettable Italian adventure.

INTRODUCTION:

The Rome 2025 Jubilee Year is not just a religious celebration; it's a global event that invites pilgrims and travelers alike to experience the rich tapestry of faith, culture, and history that defines the Eternal City. As the Vatican opens its doors to millions, the Jubilee offers a unique opportunity to explore Rome's spiritual heart and its timeless allure.

THE SPIRITUAL SIGNIFICANCE OF JUBILEE:

Every 25 years, the Catholic Church celebrates a Jubilee Year, a time of universal pardon and renewal. The 2025 Jubilee, beginning on December 24, 2024, promises to be a profound spiritual journey for those seeking forgiveness, reflection, and a deeper connection with their faith. Pilgrims will have the chance to participate in special masses, processions, and events at iconic sites like St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican

IMPACT ON TRAVEL IN ROME:

With an expected influx of over 30 million visitors, Rome will transform into a vibrant hub of activity. The Jubilee will significantly impact travel logistics, from accommodations to transportation. Early planning is essential to secure the best experiences and avoid the busiest crowds. At Trips 2 Italy, we specialize in crafting personalized itineraries that balance the spiritual and cultural aspects of your journey, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience.

WHY CHOOSE TRIPS 2 ITALY:

While we don't offer specific Jubilee-themed packages, our expert travel specialists are well-informed about the Jubilee events and can help you navigate this unique period.
Whether you're drawn to the spiritual events or the cultural festivities, our team will design an itinerary that reflects your interests and preferences, providing insider access and local insights.

Planning Your Jubilee Journey: To make the most of your Jubilee experience, consider these tips:

∙Plan Early: Secure accommodations and tours well in advance.

∙Stay Flexible: Be open to adjusting your itinerary to accommodate special events.

∙Explore Beyond Rome: Enhance your trip with visits to other Italian destinations, from the serene landscapes of Tuscany to the artistic treasures of Florence.

The Rome 2025 Jubilee is more than a religious event; it's a celebration of humanity's shared heritage and a chance to explore the depths of faith and culture. Let Trips 2 Italy be your guide on this remarkable journey, offering personalized insights and expert planning for an unforgettable Italian adventure.

Ready to embark on your Jubilee journey? Contact us today to start planning your personalized Italian experience.

Negroni

Posted on by Tommaso De Poi
Negroni Aperitiv
Negroni Cocktail

Negroni

Italy_Food_Aperitiv_Negroni_Cocktail

A classic drink with an approximately 100-year history, the Negroni is one of Italy’s enduring cocktails. The Negroni has inspired countless variations and new drinks over the years, yet it remains in a league of its own.

  • Prep Time5 min
  • Total Time5 min
  • Yield1 Serving
  • Cuisine
    • Italian
  • Course
    • Drinks
  • Cooking Method
    • Mixing

Ingredients

For Negroni:

  • Ice
  • 1 oz gin
  • 1 oz ml red vermouth
  • 1 oz Campari
  • Orange slice

Instructions

1

Place ice in an old fashioned glass until it is about ¾ full.

Add the gin, vermouth, and Campari.

Carefully stir to combine and garnish with an orange slice.

Note: One common variation is called Negroni Sbagliato, which features Prosecco instead of the gin.

Top 10 Kid Friendly Places to Visit In Italy

Posted on by Tommaso De Poi

Italy is a vast and beautiful land full of treasures to behold, but with such a large area to cover, it can be difficult to know the most kid friendly places to visit when planning your Italy family vacation.  Once you know the basics on successfully vacationing with children in Italy, it is time to start planning where to visit. There’s no better place to start than learning about some of the top ten kid friendly places to visit in Italy.

  1. VENICE: NORTHEAST ITALY

Located in the far northeast part of Italy is the romantic city of waterways, Venice.  The city actually sits upon a group of more than one hundred small islands that are connected by hundreds of bridges and separated by beautiful canals.

  • Take a Venetian boat ride to capture the true magic of this Italian city.
  • Visit the fifteenth century Torre dell’Orologio also known as The Moor’s Clock Tower or St. Mark’s Clock Tower in the Piazza San Marco, which is home to a giant Roman clock.
  • Tour St. Mark’s Cathedral. Don’t leave without taking the staircase from the atrium all the way up to Loggia dei Cavalli to take the children’s picture by the giant horses for a truly unique memory of the city.
  • Participate in a Carnevale mask making workshop.
  • Observe the unique and old world art of glass-blowing.
  1. VERONA:NORTHEAST ITALY

Verona is a beautiful city that sits on the Adige River in Beneto, Italy.  This large city in northeastern Italy is thought to have been established in first century BC and is most often known for being the grand setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.  This breathtaking town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  • Climb to the top of the Castel San Pietro. The castle is one of the highest views in the city, so have the kids wear comfortable shoes and go in the morning while the children still have energy to burn off.
  • Discover Shakespeare with a visit to the Old City where Juliet’s Balcony and Romeo’s House are centrally located.
  • Take in some culture at Teatro Filippini for family theater productions like Cinderella.
  • Visit several of the picturesque local squares so children have some free time to roam and play.

 

  1. LAKE GARDA:NORTH CENTRAL ITALY

Lake Garda is Italy’s largest lake, and definitely one of the most beautiful, with majestic mountain and lake views.  The shoreline of the lake is a jaw dropping ninety-nine miles long with stunning beauty every step of the way.

  • Take advantage of the lake. Spend the day swimming, relaxing on a beach, sailing, or riding a ferry.
  • Tour Sirmione Castle. This fairytale castle is in a charming town off the lake and features a tour and tower climb…after you cross the real moat of course!
  • Visit a local theme park. The area is home to several theme parks that offer everything from roller coasters, rides, aquariums, animals, to zip lining.
  • Eat lots of gelato!

 

  1. MILAN:NORTHWEST ITALY

Tucked into the corner of northwest Italy is Milan, one of the largest and most modern cities of Italy. It is often referred to as the fashion and design capital of the world, but the city has a history tracing back to 600 BC that can be experienced in local museums and art galleries.

  • Visit the National Museum for Science and Technology. This museum focuses on several of Leonardo Da Vinci’s inventions and has some hands-on experiences for children.
  • Tour Castello Sforzesco. Children will enjoy exploring this fairytale-like structure as well as a variety of museums within.
  • Visit the gorgeous Duomo Di Milano. This striking church has over three thousand statues, so ask the kids to see how many they can find.
  • Check out the dinosaur exhibits at the Natural History Museum.

 

  1. CINQUE TERRE:NORTHWEST ITALY

This area, whose name means five lands, sits on a picturesque coast on the Italian Riviera.  Cinque Terre is comprised of five charming villages which include Riomaggiore, Manarola, Vernazza, Corniglia, and Monterosso al Mare.

  • Climb the stairway to Castello Doria. The views from the top of the surrounding land and water below will take your breath away.
  • Get some sun at Lungomare di Fegina. This beach in Monterosso is a favorite in the warm months of summer.
  • Take a hike.There are some well-worn trails between the villages of Cinque Terre which can be fun to experience, especially when paired with a picnic.
  • Make it a game.Make it a goal to try a different food or flavor of gelato in each of the five towns.

 

  1. CENTRAL ITALY:ROME

Located in the west part of central Italy, Rome is one of the most populous cities in the country and also the country’s capital.  With a history spanning over twenty-five centuries, the city is full of exciting and engaging activities for kids.

  • Tour the world famous Colosseum. Schedule a tour of The Colosseum and the Colosseum Underground to trace the steps of gladiators as they stood in the tunnels waiting for their shining and hopefully victorious moment in the arena.
  • Catacombs:The subterranean network of tunnels can be dark but are considered a fascinating underground adventure by most children.  Two of the more popular areas are the Catacombs of St. Callisto and the Catacombs of St. Sebastion.
  • Peter’s Basilica: Younger children will enjoy rubbing the foot of the thirteenth century bronze statue of St. Peter and taking an elevator ride up to the cupola to climb up inside the dome of the church.
  • Visit Castel Sant’Angelo for a fairytale-like experience.
  • Visit the Museo dei Bambini which caters to young children.

 

  1. PISA:CENTRAL ITALY

Pisa is located in the heart of Tuscany and is internationally known for one of its structures, the Leaning Tower of Pisa.  Yet, the city is also home to a number of historic churches, medieval structures, and romantic bridges that cross the Arno River.

  • Stand next to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Depending on their age, some children may be allowed to climb up to the top of this bell tower.
  • Visit the historical Duomo Cathedral just next door. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is actually this church’s bell tower.
  • Visit the adjacent Field of Miracles, a beautiful green space which is home to both the Leaning Tower and the Duomo Cathedral as well as The Baptistery and the Camposanto Monumentale.
  • Take a relaxing stroll along the banks of the Arno River.

 

  1. FLORENCE: CENTRAL ITALY

Florence is the most populous city in Tuscany and is considered by many to be the birthplace of the Renaissance.  The Historic Centre of the city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982 because of the Renaissance influence found in art, architecture, and local monuments.

  • Climb up the dome or cupola of The Duomo. Don’t miss this cathedral’s beautiful stained glass windows and stunning frescoes.
  • Visit the Palazzo Vecchio, a popular children’s museum in Piazza della Signoria. The museum features a number of hands-on activities including discovering secret doors and dressing up in period clothing.
  • Go to the Piazza Repubblica and ride the antique carousel from the early twentieth century which features horses and decorative carriages.
  • Visit the Piazza della Signoria which is considered by many to be the cultural heart of Florence.
  1. NAPLES:SOUTHWEST ITALY

Naples is one of the largest cities in Italy and offers its guests stunning views of the Gulf of Naples on the western coast.  The city is so large it consists of roughly thirty quarters, or neighborhoods. Naples has the largest historic city center in Europe.

  • Enjoy a real pizza. Pizza is said to have originated in Naples and the locals are convinced nobody does it better.  Pizzas are made with fresh ingredients that simply make the experience.
  • Go to the beach.Naples and nearby areas have some of the prettiest beaches in Italy that offer swimming, boating, fishing, and more.
  • Visit Mount Vesuvius. This active volcano is the same one that destroyed Pompeii many centuries ago.  Be sure to hike the crater of Mount Vesuvius for some amazing views.
  • Tour underground Naples. Not always for young children, walking this deep network of dark underground tunnels is sure to stoke their imaginations.
  1. PUGLIA:SOUTHEAST ITALY

At the heel of Italy’s boot shape, is the largely untouched and gorgeous region of Puglia.  The area is thought to be three thousand years old and is home to gorgeous cities such as Brindisi, Otranto, and Ostuni to name just a few.

  • Get some sun and splash around at the beach. The Puglia region has some of the most stunning coastlines that offer both sandy white beaches and clear blue sparkling water.
  • Go snorkeling or scuba diving. The clear waters of the Adriatic and Ionian Seas offer the perfect environment for these two water sports that effortlessly intertwine with marine wildlife.
  • Get in the kitchen. Learn how to make some of the area’s most traditional dishes such as orecchiete.
  • Visit ZooSafari for amazing up close views of a number of exotic animals.
  • Have fun at the area amusement park of Fasanolandia.

 

 

Minestrone – The Italian Vacation from a Cold Winters Day

Posted on by Tommaso De Poi

Minestrone Soup

Soups are a mainstay in any part of the world and Italy is no exception. Minestrone is uniquely Italian and there are many different ways the soup is prepared. This is an authentic Italian minestrone recipe that will go along way during these cold winter months.

  • Prep Time5 min
  • Cook Time10 min
  • Total Time15 min

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 1 onion
  • 1 large carrot
  • ¼ lb. zucchini
  • 1 head of cauliflower (about 14 oz.)
  • 1 acorn squash (about ½ lb.)
  • 2 Yukon gold potatoes (about ¾ lb.)
  • ¾ lb. vine ripened tomatoes
  • 1 rib of celery
  • 5 oz. leeks
  • 7 oz. peas
  • 3.8 oz. diced pancetta
  • 7 oz. cranberry beans
  • A pinch of salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 3-4 sprigs of rosemary
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 3 cups of water (set ¼ cup apart)
  • 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Nutmeg to taste

Preparation:

1

Prepare the vegetables: Peel the acorn squash, remove the seeds using a spoon, and cut into cubes about 1 centimeter wide. Cut the zucchini into cubes as well. Shell the cranberry beans if they are still in the pod. Cut the cauliflower in half, remove the core, then cut into florets. Remove the green, external part of the leek and cut the leek into thin rounds. Peel the potatoes and cut into cubes. Cut the tomatoes into cubes as well.

2

Prepare the soffritto: Finely chop the onion, carrot, and celery.

3

Heat the olive oil in a large, non-stick pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery and sauté for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute then add the pancetta.

4

Tie the sprigs of rosemary and bay leaves together with cooking twine then add to the pot. Add the leek and pour in ¼ cup of water. Cook over medium heat for 10 minutes. Add the squash and beans then cook for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5

Add the potatoes then grate the nutmeg over the pot to taste. Add the cauliflower and zucchini. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed. Cook for an additional 5 to 6 minutes.

6

Add the peas and tomatoes then pour in the remaining water a little at a time. Cover the pot and cook over medium heat for 30 minutes. Remove the garlic and cook for an additional 15 minutes. Stir in the fresh parsley.

7

Pour in another ¼ cup of water (add a little less if you prefer denser minestrone). Remove the rosemary and bay leaves and stir well. Serve immediately.

Bollito Makes A Christmas Day Dinner

Posted on by Tommaso De Poi

Bollito

Bollito is a dish prevalent in the northern part of Italy especially in the regions of Lombardy and Piedmont. It typically consists of a variety of meats, usually tougher cuts of beef or veal, that are gently boiled for about 3 hours in a broth made from vegetables and herbs. The result is tender, flavorful meat in rich, delicious broth. A good bollito requires plenty of time to cook, fresh herbs, and carefully selected meats. Bollito can be served on its own or paired with boiled vegetables, homemade sauces, or mostarda (candied fruit in a mustard-based syrup). In Piedmont, ``bollito misto`` is prevalent, which features hen and cotechino (pork sausage) in addition to beef and veal. This simple and hearty dish is a classic winter staple for many Italian families and an emblem of Italian home-cooking.

  • Prep Time15 min
  • Cook Time3 hr
  • Total Time3 hr 15 min

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 2 ¼ lbs. beef (ideal cuts for this recipe include: fore shank, short ribs, brisket, bottom sirloin, chuck steak, flank steak, or round steak)
  • 1 carrot
  • 3 bay leaves
  • 15 grams kosher salt
  • 1 onion
  • 1 bunch of parsley
  • 3 cloves
  • 2 celery stalks
  • 1 sprig of thyme
  • 4 whole black peppercorns

Preparation

1

Tie the meat with kitchen twine (any of the cuts listed above can be used in this recipe). Fill a tall pot with water and place over medium heat. Peel the onion and stick the three cloves into the onion. Peel the carrot and cut it into pieces that are about 1 inch in length. Tie the bay leaves, parsley, and thyme together using kitchen twine. Place the onion, carrot, celery, and herbs in the water.

2

Once the water is boiling, add the salt and the meat. It is very important that the meat is immersed in the water only after it has started to boil consistently, not a moment before.

3

After a few minutes, foam will begin to gather on the surface of the water. Remove all of the foam with a skimmer and then add the black peppercorns to the pot. Reduce the heat to low.

4

Cook for about 3 hours ensuring that the water remains at a gentle, but consistent boil throughout. Once the meat is cooked, remove it from the water using a slotted spoon.

Roasted Veal and Potatoes

Posted on by Tommaso De Poi

Roasted Veal and Potatoes

Roasted Veal and Potatoes is a common Christmas Day meal.

  • Prep Time5 min
  • Cook Time10 min
  • Total Time15 min

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs. veal tenderloin
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 1 sprig of rosemary
  • 1 garlic clove, cut in half
  • 2 sage leaves
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 ladle of warm beef broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Preparations

1

Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees. Tie the veal with kitchen twine and season with salt and pepper on all sides. In a pot large enough to hold the meat, heat the olive oil over medium heat and brown the meat on all sides. Use two wooden spoons to carefully turn the meat.

2

Add the white wine and allow it to evaporate. Next, add the herbs, beef broth, and garlic. Allow the flavors to mix for a minute or two and then roast in the oven at 400 degrees for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes. Turn the meat and baste frequently while it’s cooking. If the pan starts to dry up, add more warm beef broth.

3

Turn off the oven and allow the veal to rest for 10 minutes in the oven. Then, drain the liquid from the pot and strain it. Remove the twine and cut the meat into even slices. Serve with the strained sauce.

Spaghetti alle Vongole

Posted on by Tommaso De Poi

Spaghetti alle Vongole

Spaghetti Alle Vongole or Spaghetti with clams is a classic dish any time of year, but at Christmas, this dish often takes center stage.

  • Prep Time20 min
  • Cook Time25 min
  • Total Time45 min

Ingredients

  • 2 ¼ lbs. clams
  • 10.5 oz. spaghetti
  • ½ cup dry white wine
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Red pepper flakes to taste
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Preparations

1

Preparing the clams: the day before cooking, clean the clams by placing them in a bowl of salted cold water for at least 12 hours. Immediately before cooking, rinse the clams under cold water to ensure that all sand has been removed.

2

Place the rinsed clams, garlic, and white wine in a skillet over high heat. Let the wine evaporate, cover the pan tightly with the lid, and wait until the clams open completely, this should take about 3 minutes. Remove the clams and garlic. Drain the liquid, strain, and reserve.

3

In the same pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté for about 1 minute. Return the clams and filtered liquid to the pan and heat for 2 minutes.

4

Finely chop the parsley and cook the spaghetti in boiling salted water until it is almost al dente.

5

Drain the spaghetti and add to the pan with the clams. Stir for a few seconds and serve immediately with sprinkled parsley and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Roasted baccalà with Tomatoes and Potatoes

Posted on by Tommaso De Poi

Roasted baccalà with Tomatoes and Potatoes

This is a classic Italian Christmas Eve Dish

  • Prep Time20 min
  • Cook Time35 min
  • Total Time55 min

Ingredients

  • 2.5 lbs. prepared salt cod/baccalà (see step 1)
  • 1 lb. potatoes, cut into thin slices
  • 14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes
  • 1 onion, diced
  • ¼ cup dry white wine
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
  • Red pepper flakes to taste
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt to taste

Preparation Instructions

1

Preparing the salt cod: Three days prior to cooking, soak the pieces of salt cod in a large pan with cold water. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and place in the refrigerator for three days to rehydrate the fish and remove the salt. Be sure to flip the pieces of fish occasionally and replace the water every 8 hours. Immediately before cooking, rinse the cod with cold water and pat dry to remove any excess salt. Cut the salt cod into cubes about 2 inches long.

2

Pre-heat the oven to 355 degrees. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions, a small ladle of water (about 2 ounces), and a pinch of salt. Once the onions are transparent, add the white wine and wait for it to evaporate. Next, add the tomatoes, garlic, parsley, and red pepper flakes and cook for 5 minutes. Add salt and pepper to taste. Remove the garlic and reserve 2 tablespoons of sauce then place the rest in a baking dish.

3

Meanwhile, in another pan heat the remaining olive oil and sauté the potato slices for 4 minutes. Then, add the potatoes to the baking dish with the tomatoes and stir.

4

Place the salt cod in the baking dish on top of the layer of potatoes and tomatoes and top with the reserved sauce. Cover and bake for 20 minutes at 355 degrees. Serve immediately.

Cathedral Of Messina’s Clock Tower

Posted on by Tommaso De Poi

messina_clocktower_view_blg0The roar of a majestic lion, a stately rooster’s crow, statues coming to life and music filling the air as a story unfolds; this artistic display of characters sounds more like an up and coming movie than an eighty year old Astronomical Cathedral clock. The Cathedral of Messina’s animated clock show is a great way to display history to any variety of age groups, whether they are an older crowd or a younger generation. Children will squeal with delight as they watch the animals spring to life, and adults will smile as they witness this majestic bell tower tell a story in an entertaining and beautiful fashion.
Continue reading "Cathedral Of Messina’s Clock Tower"

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