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As the days start to warm and winter turns to spring, the festivities begin. Taking place in February or early March, Carnevale is one of the most grand events in Italy each year. If you’re taking a trip to Italy and are looking for a reason to celebrate, read on! Learn more about the history of Carnevale and the must-try dishes. What is Carnevale? What is the history behind it? Carnevale has roots in ancient Roman festivals, which honored celebrations and tradition. Carnevale comes from the Latin carne levare , which translates to “farewell to meat.” This symbolizes the last days of indulgence before the fasting period of Lent. This time of feasting and entertainment takes place before Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of Lent. The day before Ash Wednesday is when people indulge in the richest foods and celebrations. Alongside delicious food, this tradition often comes with masked balls and various performances which reflect mischief and fun. And don’t forget: lively music, costumes, and floats! What are some iconic dishes to try? These are some iconic dishes to try during Carnevale. Whether you want something sweet or savory, there is something for you! Sweet Treats Castagnole : If you love doughnuts, this is a pastry for you. Resembling chestnuts, these small fried dough balls are crispy on the outside and fluffy in the middle. Frappe : Another pastry, these thin fried confections offer sweet indulgence—topped with powdered sugar. Sanguinaccio Dolce : This is the dream for chocolate lovers. Topped with cinnamon and oftentimes served with biscuits, this chocolate pudding is rich and flavorful. Ravioli Dolci : While seemingly an odd combination, this sweet fried ravioli is filled with chocolate chips, ricotta, and lemon zest. Talk about a mouthwatering treat! Savory Dishes Lasagna di Carnevale : Staying true to the theme of indulgence during Carnevale, this lasagna is filled with pasta, meatballs, ricotta, mozzarella, and hard-boiled eggs. Nothing says feast  more than this! Frittelle di Baccalà : Popular in Rome and Venice, these crispy salt cod fritters are bite-sized and delicious. Salsiccia e Friarielli : A combination of sausage and greens, this dish is filling and hearty. Gnocco Fritto : Simple but a crowd-pleasure—these fried dough bits are served with cured meats and cheeses, making for a great snack or appetizer. Where should I go to find these dishes? During Carnevale, you can find these dishes across Italy. Here are a few regions that are especially known for their celebrations, and where you can go to try these iconic foods! Venice Piazza San Marco Rialto Market area Tuscany Viareggio’s Carnival Viale Margherita Lungomare promenade Rome Piazza Navona Campo de’ Fiori Trastevere Naples Piazza del Plebiscito Sicily Catania’s Pescheria Market Via Etnea Bologna Bologna’s Quadrilatero Market Sardinia Mercato di San Benedetto Nuoro These are just a few places to get you started! Be sure to check for local festivals or street vendors which might offer the best local dishes during Carnevale celebrations. Have fun, eat lots, and enjoy the rich history that Carnevale has to offer.

Flowers have always been a staple design, but this truly takes the cake (pun intended). Both elegant and fun, timeless and unique: wildflower cakes have taken the internet by storm. Why should I choose the wildflower cake design? The wildflower cake design offers creative freedom and the ability to make a dessert truly yours. With different colors and types of flowers, this cake is completely customizable and versatile.  Beyond this personalization, though, wildflower cakes also have a natural beauty that is soft and romantic. They stand out without being overwhelming and are sophisticated enough to be appropriate for nearly every occasion. Lastly, this cake design can reflect seasonal or symbolic messages—whether it's by using fresh and locally sourced wildflowers or intentionally choosing ones with sentimental value, your cake can be meaningful. What are some ideas? Wildflowers come in many different forms, which means there are many different ideas for the kind of design you might want to choose. Listed below are a few ideas to get you started: The quintessential fresh wildflower cake is always a good pick . With a simple buttercream cake adorned with pesticide-free wildflowers, this cake looks straight from the garden and absolutely beautiful. For a more tame look, pressed wildflowers are a great way to add a delicate touch to fondant or frosting. Pressed edible flowers are a great way to make this cake easy to eat and no fuss! For an even more delicious option: look for edible sugar wildflowers . For those of you who still feel a bit iffy about adding real flowers to your cake, hand-painted wildflower cakes are a great way to add subtle detail. As opposed to fresh wildflowers, dried florals can bring a rustic look to your cake. Whatever your style is, wildflowers have got your back. What are some good flowers for these ideas? Here is a list of flowers to get you started on your cake decoration journey! Chamomile Lavender Violas Marigolds Nasturtiums Dandelions Honeysuckle Baby’s breath Ferns and greenery Be sure to check that the flowers are safe for decoration! Furthermore, look for edible flowers if you want to “have your cake and eat it too.” What occasions would this design be good for? With its romantic flair, wildflower cakes are a perfect fit for many different occasions. Here are a few: Weddings (especially in the spring or summer) Bridal showers Birthdays Anniversary celebrations Seasonal celebrations Mother’s Day brunch Backyard gatherings Baby showers Where can I find more information? For those of you who want to explore the world of wildflower cakes, Pinterest is a great start. Furthermore, if you love the idea but want to enlist someone else to help you, keywords like “wildflower cakes” or “custom cake designs” can help to look for a professional who can bring your vision to life.  We hope your cake is beautiful and delicious—something worth celebrating.

No matter how skillful you are, we are all subject to shortcomings and distractions. Although it is important to learn from one’s mistakes in culinary, there are certainly ways to avoid them and prevent burning your food. How many of us had to throw away our dinners or start a recipe all over again because we burnt our food and the bitter taste overpowered the whole thing? Whether you are a food enthusiast, or just a college student trying to avoid ramen for the 3rd night straight, one of the most common challenges one faces while cooking is the dreaded fate of burnt food. But don't worry, we prepared for you a comprehensive guide to mastering the art of not burning food! What happens when you're burning food? At its core, burning is a chemical reaction. When food is exposed to heat over high temperatures or for too long, it undergoes a process of caramelization that can turn into carbonization, resulting in a very overwhelming and unpleasant bitter taste and burnt appearance, so to avoid burning food, it is crucial to know how to control heat. Start with a low heat and then gradually turn to medium or high. Or, if you like your food a little charred, you can start with high heat, and then switch it to medium and low to finish cooking. Stirring is also a great way to prevent your food from burning as it doesn’t let the food stick to the bottom of the pan. Helpful tools Timers can also be very helpful to remind us it’s time to take our food from the fire or oven. Most recipes come with the time a dish or dessert requires, and nowadays, we can easily set timers on our phones or even in our stoves and microwaves. Whether we are sauteeing mushrooms or waiting for a cake in the oven, timers are real-life savers when it comes to not burning food.  Knowing your equipment is also a very important tip, as different pots, pans, and ovens conduct heat differently. For example, Cast iron retains heat longer, while stainless steel heats up quickly. Also make sure your oven matches the temperature scales of your recipes, whether Fahrenheit or degrees Celsius. that can be crucial for your recipe to either take hours to cook or minutes to burn.  Cleaning your pans is also important, as past residues or used oils can burn your food faster. Non-stick pans are great for not burning food, and adding a bit of oil, and butter are also great options that help not burn your food.  Take a cooking class for practicing! The best way to learn is by practicing. So start with something as easy as scrambled eggs, and play around with the heat. Practicing baking can also be helpful as it demands accuracy in both temperature and timing. In case of burning, don't panic! the first step is to lower the heat and move the food around, or even move to a different pan if possible. In the case of baking, just turn off the oven and let it sit for a while, sometimes even scrapping off the burnt parts can help save the dish. Burning food is a common mishap, but it's easily preventable with the right knowledge and attention. It is normal to burn ourselves as it is part of the learning process but don’t let it intimidate you, embrace the hot mess, and keep trying, every chef has burnt something at some point. With these tips in mind, you're sure to say goodbye to ramen and burnt cake, and finally be able to treat yourself to a delicious and sophisticated meal every time!

Beyond work meetings, the ability to do things for pleasure and practice exercising your hobbies has expanded from in-person events to online experiences. Read on to find out more about video cooking classes! Accessibility Too far away from a cooking class you really want to attend? Have family at home to stay with? Transportation is an issue? No worries! Video cooking classes make these problems negligible, as you can now access the same professional guidance and delicious meals as you would if you were to go to an in-person cooking class event. The accessibility of these events allows you to expand your opportunities and palate–two birds with one stone! The Rise of Online Cooking Classes With the pandemic, it is no surprise that online platforms, such as Zoom, have become widely popular. This has extended the capability of other events, such as cooking classes, to be held online and be available for people who don't directly live in that area. Video cooking classes have expanded opportunities for not only companies and businesses, but also people who are eager to try a new recipe without making the physical journey there. Don't be fooled, though--there is a fulfilling and satisfactory journey nonetheless! Connect with People from Afar Have relatives or friends who live far away? Want to experience the joys of cooking together, and connect with loved ones in a meaningful way? Quality time through video cooking classes is the perfect way to do this. Regardless of the distance that may separate you, there is an opportunity to do something that will bring you closer together. On the flip side, if you’d like to meet new people from all over, video cooking classes also offers the perfect recipe for a spark. The diversity that this kind of environment can offer allows you to explore new perspectives, learn about different cultures, and bond over your love for food. Chef It Up! One of the greatest opportunities that video cooking classes offer is the opportunity to meet and be taught by chefs from all over the world. This ensures the authenticity of the experience and also allows you to have the ability to be truly immersed in different cultures with different people from all over the world. While it may seem difficult to find authentic cooking experiences, video cooking classes open up a whole new world that is easily accessible to you. Your capacity to learn more is truly unlimited! Everything is Taken Care of! To really hone in on one of the key benefits of video cooking classes, it’s only right to acknowledge the amount of time you will save: from not having to get to and from the venue, to ingredients that are already ready for you to use (at IMPASTIAMO), you no longer have to worry about making ample time for cooking class. A perfect way to fit it into your busy schedule! You won’t have to lift a finger when it comes to video cooking classes. Once you register for the event, you can have the ingredients delivered to your home and prepped for you to work your magic! In addition, the quality of video and sound is guaranteed to be great, as these chefs have prepared long and hard in order to make sure that the cooking class runs smoothly. You deserve a break–take it easy, and have a nice dinner before continuing with the rest of your night! So What's Next? Video cooking classes offer a fresh and unique take on the classic cooking classes that you may imagine–and have benefits that in-person events cannot offer. With accessibility, efficiency, connection, and materials ready to serve, video cooking classes have the perfect ingredients to make your day. Sign up now–it’s that easy!

Do you know where your food comes from? Most people don’t. In these modern times there’s a vast divide between the farms that produce the food and those who consume it. Because of this, farming practices aren’t on the minds of your average consumer. But we think that needs to change. Now is the time to take a hard look at the way farming practices can (and should) improve, to better utilize resources and protect the earth for future generations. That’s where regenerative agriculture comes in: a better way to farm, that focuses not only on what they’re producing, but HOW. One of our goals here at IMPASTIAMO (besides bringing you really, really good food) is to help educate others about sustainability and taking care of our planet. In fact, we are proud to include certain ingredients in our kits that are sourced from farms that use regenerative farming practices. We’ve got a lot of information to share about regenerative agriculture, so let’s jump right in! What is Regenerative Agriculture? A holistic look at farming practices, taking into account what is planted, how it’s planted, how it’s grown and gathered, animal involvement, and every other question related to the process of growing and tending in between. In a word: cohesiveness, but with the goal of sustainability and health, both of the consumer and of the earth. If you start to research for yourself, you will find variability in the specific tenants of regenerative agriculture, but we’ve grouped the most common ones into three overarching categories for you. You’ll notice as we go through these points their holistic nature; each one working toward or assisting the other goals. Soil - Minimizing soil disturbances, which includes eliminating or decreasing tillage. Tilling is intended to get the top layer of soil ready for planting, pulling up weeds, blending in any remaining plants, and combining fertilizer, etc. as well as softening the soil. Although tilling is an extremely common practice to prepare the soil for planting, the negatives are hard to overlook. To begin with, turning the soil over and over aerates it, increasing surface runoff and soil erosion. In addition, the aerated soil increases metabolic activity within it. This increased activity burns up the organic matter in the soil, thereby decreasing the viability of plants that can absorb carbon dioxide from the air, while at the same time releasing more carbon dioxide into the air. Check out this article from the World Resources Institute for an in-depth look at ‘The Causes and Effects of Soil Erosion, and How to Prevent It.’ - Focusing on soil coverage; keeping the soil covered with crops or living roots as much and as long as possible. According to the USDA , "Decreased soil loss and runoff translates to reduced transport of valuable nutrients, pesticides, herbicides, and harmful pathogens associated with manure from farmland that degrade the quality of streams, rivers and water bodies and pose a threat to human health.” Having this coverage also helps to prevent soil erosion, which we touched on above. Alfalfa and clover are popular choices to plant in the time between crops. In addition to maintaining the soil, the live vegetation provides grazing material for livestock and helps offset carbon emissions. Life Forms (Note: we’re not talking about aliens here, but how fun if we were?) - Increased biodiversity of animals and plants + integrate animals into the farm as much as possible. The biggest point here is that nature is a delicate, extremely intricate ecosystem, with many parts working together. Too much of even a good thing can be a problem. Nature doesn’t segregate the animals in a field or the plants that grow in a rainforest. Each one there has a specific place in the greater scheme, not limited to eating the vegetation and weeds, and providing organic matter back into the soil. - Utilize regenerative grazing management for livestock. This peer reviewed study , published at the end of 2020, is an in-depth look at the carbon footprint from livestock and soil quality in relation to regenerative grazing. On the surface, regenerative grazing seems to be the answer to decreasing the large amount of gas emissions from livestock, especially cattle. They found that by rotating the grazing areas of multiple animal types, the greenhouse gas footprint was 66% lower. However, this grazing method requires 2.5 times the amount of land than traditional grazing uses. There is speculation that the sheer quantity of land needed for regenerative grazing (of cattle alone) could further contribute to deforestation. Additives - Reduce the use of artificial fertilizers and chemical inputs The intention of regenerative farming methods is for this step to be accomplished by the grazing livestock. This means that there would be much less (or no) toxic chemicals in the soil runoff that will eventually make its way into nearby water sources. Avoiding the use of pesticides and other chemicals has the most direct link to us, the consumers. That leads us to our next point… Are “Organic” and “Regenerative Agriculture” the Same Thing? Both of these terms clue you in to important details about how your food was grown or raised, but they are not one in the same. Regenerative agriculture is much less specific than organic; since there are general guidelines, but no cut and clear definition of what “reducing the use of fertilizers” means in practice. Organically grown food is produced with methods that exclude the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or other artificial agents. That’s where it ends however, without goals of sustainability or future ecological success. Kudos to the farm that is both organic AND regenerative! To sum it up: Regenerative CAN mean organic, but organic doesn’t necessarily mean regenerative. Regenerative Agriculture Through the Years While regenerative agriculture has gained interest in recent years, it‘s by no means a new idea. Long before “regenerative agriculture” and “sustainable” were buzz words, it was simply “farming” using methods that made the most sense. In fact, many of the principles were derived by practices of Indigenous Americans. They were successfully managing the land using ancient techniques, long before the settlers arrived. One of these methods is known as the Three Sisters . It involves planting corn, squash, and beans together, also known as intercropping. These three plants provide what the others need, while still thriving themselves. Here’s a more recent history refresher for you: during the 1930’s, in addition to the Great Depression, farmers in areas of Colorado, New Mexico, Kansas. Oklahoma, and Texas saw firsthand the effects that unsustainable farming practices can have on the land. The people in these areas were hit the hardest by deadly dust storms, the worst one occurring on April 14, 1935, which would later be known as Black Sunday. Our Final Thoughts… More is not always better, especially when it comes to the delicate ecosystem that we call our home. Sacrifices in efficiency and profit are often the cost of a more responsible farming method. But the cost of ignoring the need for more sustainable behavior will be much higher. Much like trying to consume less meat , recycling, and composting , regenerative agriculture respects what the earth provides, and attempts to give back to it, so that our future generations can reap the benefits long after we’re gone. While we would love to delve deeply into all of the details and implications of this practice, our goal here is to start a discussion and plant the seeds of interest. There is so much valuable information out there on each topic mentioned, here are just a few to get you started: Want to Eat Less Meat? Here's How to Get Started How to Prevent Food Waste at Home What Is Regenerative Agriculture, and Why Is it Re-Emerging Now? What is biodiversity and why is it important? The Indigenous Origins of Regenerative Agriculture Want to Eat Less Meat? Here's How to Get Started save me for later!

Want to kick off a fantastic night without alcohol? Here are some tips on how to search for the 'best mocktails near me' and discover great recommendations A new year often brings fresh habits and a desire to explore new flavors. More people are embracing creative, alcohol-free drinks, turning mocktails into a rising trend. With an array of ingredients and innovative recipes, there’s no shortage of delicious options to enjoy with friends and family. Why mocktails? Because mocktails are non-alcoholic, they are often more inclusive and accessible to many people (beyond Dry January). Some people might not drink alcohol for health or religious reasons. Some people may be pregnant or breastfeeding. Even if you are the designated driver, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a fun beverage with your loved ones. Mocktails are also typically healthier than your traditional cocktails. By incorporating ingredients such as herbs and antioxidants, not only are you avoiding the potential negative effects of alcohol, but you can actually boost your health while having fun. Plus: no hangovers! The creativity that mocktails provide is also one to note: even without alcohol, you can reach complex flavors that are perfect to celebrate with. The presentation of mocktails is often beautiful and allows everyone to have fun and get a little fancy. Ultimately, mocktails provide an excellent alternative and can help reduce the stigmas that surround remaining alcohol-free. Read on to find out more about how to look for the best ones in your area! What are the most popular mocktails to order? While every restaurant or bar might be different, these are some of the most popular mocktails to order (and what’s typically in them). Virgin Mojito Lime Fresh mint Sugar Soda water Ice Shirley Temple (popular for all ages!) Ginger ale Grenadine Maraschino cherry Virgin Pina Colada Pineapple juice Coconut cream Ice Virgin Mary Tomato juice Lemon juice Worcestershire sauce Hot sauce Spices Cucumber Cooler Cucumber slices Lime juice Sugar Soda water Some places might have mocktails on their menu, but others offer the option to customize when you order (ex. instead of ordering a mojito, you can order a virgin mojito). It’s always a good idea to clarify and ask if you have any questions! How do I search for mocktails? When looking for mocktails, there are a plethora of online tools to help speed up your search. With apps such as Google Maps, Yelp, Instagram, or more niche food apps such as OpenTable, looking up mocktails (and seeing menus) is no sweat. Some options might bring up restaurants, bars, or even sober bars or cafes dedicated to the art of the mocktail.  To find what’s best and closest to you, enabling location services can help narrow down your search. In addition, being even more specific in your search query can help you find what you’re looking for. This can be through using specific words (ex. sober bar) or even through searching for a specific mocktail that you’re craving.  Once your options pop up, take a look at the reviews and ratings to see what people have said. Oftentimes, it’s accompanied by a picture so that you can see for yourself before you decide where to go.  We hope you find your perfect mocktail match, and have fun while doing it!

Pizza cutters. We’ve seen the circular blades on cooking shows, at restaurants, and maybe even in our own kitchens. Despite the seemingly obvious name of the tool, is there really a right way to use one? More importantly, does it do anything other than cut pizza? Read on to find out more! Your culinary world is about to expand. Cutting Pizza Okay, so here’s the obvious use of a pizza cutter. You know, the one where you roll the blade back and forth to cut those cheesy, triangular slices of pizza! Here are some tips to make sure your slice is ready to go (and by that, we mean ready to eat). After your pizza is finished baking/reheating, let it cool for a few minutes. This is a surprisingly big part of what makes pizza easier to cut, and will make your job a lot easier. However, cutting into the pizza before it completely cools and hardens is also important, so take notice of how your pizza is doing after it comes out of the oven! It’s also a good idea to make sure that your pizza cutter is sharp enough. Although it has a round surface, a sharp knife will ensure that you are able to present delicious AND beautiful slices–even if it’s just for yourself. Lastly, use that back-and-forth motion to cut the slices of pizza. It might be helpful to think about pushing the pizza cutter forward, then sliding it backwards and doing it again, in order to avoid jagged pieces. Make sure to use a firm hand and a steady surface. And…voila! You’re ready to feast on those mouthwatering slices. What Else? So once you’ve used a pizza cutter for pizza, what else can you do with this handy device? I mean, how can you make it worth your while, especially if you don’t eat pizza often? We’re so glad you asked. Here are some ways to repurpose pizza cutters into something useful and creative. Trimming crust off of sandwiches : For those of you with little kids who don’t like crust on their sandwiches, using a pizza cutter to trim the crust off is a quick and easy fix. Cutting ravioli : Want the sharp and neat edges of this pasta dish? Simply use a pizza cutter after layering the pasta dough with pockets of filling, then seal the dough shut! Anything messy : If you ever want to split something sticky and small but would rather not get your hands or knives in the mix, a pizza cutter is a great option. This can be used for fruit, like grapes or cherries, or even for marshmallows! Finely chopped : If you ever need to slice something up into tiny pieces, like green onions or rosemary, a pizza cutter works just as well as a knife (and takes half the time) as it slices both forwards and backwards. Smaller portions : For the little ones, or if you want to split something with no mess–pancakes, crepes, tortillas, and even desserts such as brownies can be divided equally and easily with pizza cutters. For the dip : Whether it’s waffle strips for maple syrup, or sushi bites in soy sauce, a pizza cutter can create evenly sized pieces for your dipping pleasure. Get Innovative The list above is just a few of the ways that you can use a pizza cutter, and routes to embark on a creative adventure while getting some delicious food in your stomach.  Doubt it? Try it! In no time, the pizza cutter will become a staple in your kitchen--for cutting pizza, and for other uses.

Chock-full of festivals, processions, and traditions, Easter is one of the most widely acclaimed holidays in Italy. Falling on the last day of March this year, Easter marks the entrance of sunnier days and various rites. Read on to find out how to make some delicious Italian Easter desserts to complement the celebration! Regional Differences Even if Easter is renowned throughout Italy, there are regional differences in the way that people celebrate, connect, and eat. While in Bormio (Northern Italy), you might find flower floats and traditional costumes–in Tredozio (a small village in the Centre of Italy), you might find more games, battles, and symbolic eggs. Likewise, this article will cover a variety of recipes from different places, so read on to find a few great recipes and a little slice of history! Some Desserts If you are looking to find the names of Italian Easter desserts, here is the complete list for you. Colomba Pasquale If you are familiar with the traditional Italian Christmas cake Panettone, the Colomba Pasquale is its Easter counterpart. As a traditional dove-shaped cake, it’s often topped with almonds and sugar, which symbolizes peace and renewal. The texture of Colomba Pasquale is light and airy, with a slightly chewy crust. The process of making the cake is lengthy, as the dough requires several hours to rise, sometimes over the course of several days, to develop its characteristic flavors and textures. Soft and sweet, this is the perfect dessert for an Easter celebration! Pastiera Napoletana This dessert is widely popular in Southern Italy, and originated from Naples. Pastiera is a ricotta and grain pie that is flavored with orange blossom water and sometimes adorned with candied fruits. As a symbol of Neapolitan culinary tradition, this dessert is not only delicious–but beautiful, too. Casatiello As a savory dessert, Casatiello is round and contains the popular Easter symbol–eggs. Originating from Naples, the rich dough filled with salami, cheese, and eggs makes for the perfect savory treat. La Torta della Nonna Translated as “Grandmother’s cake,” La Torta della Nonna comes from Tuscany and is comforting just as a time-old recipe might be. A buttery and flaky pastry filled with custard, the powdered sugar finish is sure to have you come back for more. Uova di Pasqua Now, for the one you’ve been expecting– eggs, specifically chocolate ones. As a popular Easter treat, they are not only delicious but also may contain surprises or small toys. Perfect for the little ones! Pardulas Originally from Sardinia, these small pastries are made me ricotta, saffron, and citrus zest. They have a crisp shell and a creamy filling–making the perfect combination for a delicious bite-sized dessert. Once baked, Pardulas have a golden exterior with a creamy, rich interior. They are usually dusted with powdered sugar before serving, adding an extra layer of sweetness. Pardulas embody the essence of Sardinian pastry tradition, showcasing the island's love for simple, flavorful ingredients Ciambella Pasquale With “ciambella” meaning ring or doughnut, this simple Easter cake is ring-shaped and flavored with lemon or orange zest. Decorated with colorful sprinkles, this one is sure to catch your eye. Scarcella Visually made to look like a figure or a basket, this pastry is adorned with colors and is popular in the Puglia region. Who can resist an adorable bunny pastry filled with almonds or dried fruit? Cuzzupa Last but not least, from the Calabria region, Cuzzupa is a bread or cake that is shaped into intricate designs (like a figure eight). Often with eggs (in the dough or as a topping) symbolizing rebirth, this sweet dessert is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking to find some delicious desserts or discover bits of history, this list gives a general overview of some popular Italian Easter desserts. To find out more or find a recipe, just insert the name and “recipe” into a search engine! Sweet treats await. Time To Celebrate! Whether you are a regular celebrator of Easter or just beginning to learn about it, these popular Italian Easter desserts might give you an idea of where to start this year. Food is an incredible way to connect with other people and with other cultures–so get inspired, get knowledgable, and get cooking. We can’t wait to see what you discover and make.

Discover our top picks for truffle seasonings, featuring must-try brands and shopping destinations for every gourmet lover Who doesn't love truffle? Quite a few people, actually. We know the flavor and smell of truffle aren't for everybody. The world usually divides into two big categories: those who absolutely love truffle, and those who dislike it. However, we recently found out there's a third category of food enthusiasts who have mixed feelings about the truffle quest: those who are genuinely curious about the mushroom but are unsure how to use it, find it hard to buy, or think it's too expensive. We might have the solution for you to add some luxury to your daily meals: truffle seasonings. We've scoured the market for the crème de la crème of truffle seasonings, featuring standout brands and guiding you on where to snap them up. Whether you're spicing up a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at your next dinner party, our recommendations are poised to infuse your dishes with unparalleled depth and sophistication. Black Truffle Himalayan Pink Salt, by Truffle Dealers This mineral-rich salt, infused with the robust flavor of black truffle , acts as the kitchen's glitter, sprinkling gourmet magic on everything it touches. It transforms scrambled eggs, roasted vegetables, crispy potato fries, and even popcorn into luxurious culinary experiences. Composed of Himalayan pink salt and enriched with 2% dehydrated summer truffle (Tuber Aestivum Vitt.), along with added flavors, it offers an accessible way to infuse the opulent notes of truffle into everyday meals, turning each dining occasion into a moment of indulgence. Truffle, Parmesan & Black Garlic Seasoning, by Curious Spoon Curious Spoon's Truffle, Parmesan & Black Garlic Seasoning ingeniously merges the deep, umami-packed essences of truffles, black garlic, and Parmesan cheese into a versatile, user-friendly powder form. This innovative concoction is designed to offer a gourmet touch to everyday meals, making it effortless to infuse a luxurious depth of flavor into a wide array of dishes. Truffles, known for their rich, earthy aroma, combine seamlessly with the complex, caramelized sweetness of black garlic and the sharp, salty notes of Parmesan cheese, creating a harmonious blend that enhances the taste profile of anything it's added to. Truffle Everything Seasoning, by The Truffleist The Truffle Everything Seasoning , infused with Italian Black Truffles, brings an upscale twist to the classic savory blend. Developed in collaboration with Greenpoint Trading and drawing inspiration from the esteemed New York bagel-deli specialist and “Recipe Lost & Found” celebrity chef, Casey Corn, this blend includes an array of ingredients such as black and white sesame seeds, onion, caraway, and their distinctive Truffle Salt. Ideal for a wide range of dishes, from enhancing the flavors of toasted focaccia and guacamole to Caesar Salad and even a Ham & Jam Sandwich, it's celebrated for its versatility in elevating the culinary experience. Truffle Salt, by Truffle Shuffle Truffle salt stands out as a favored truffle-infused product, renowned for its ease of use and ability to deliver a satisfying truffle experience, according to experts. Produced by McKinney's company, Balinese Truffle Salt blends porcini mushroom powder, Tuber aestivum (also known as the Burgundy summer truffle), and natural yeast to enhance the umami flavor. The use of wet Balinese salt ensures the ingredients bind well, resulting in a seasoning that enhances dishes effectively. Additionally, truffle salt offers the advantage of a prolonged shelf life, remaining usable for up to 18 months, although it's likely to be consumed long before then. Truffle Zest, by Sabatino Truffle Zest tops the global charts as the most popular truffle seasoning. It's crafted from finely ground black summer truffles known for their rich and earthy scent. This creates a seasoning that is both low in calories and sodium, yet brimming with genuine black truffle taste and fragrance, making it a versatile addition to any recipe.

A staple in every Italian house, the Oil Cruet is more than just a fancy addition to your kitchen: it's a practical tool to elevate your homemade pizza and cooking experience First thing first: what is an oil cruet? An oil cruet is a small container or bottle designed for holding and dispensing oil, especially olive oil, which is a staple in many kitchens around the world. These cruets can be made from various materials such as glass, ceramic, or metal and often come with a pour spout or a drizzle cap to allow for controlled dispensing of the oil. The design of the cruet can range from simple and functional to decorative and elaborate, making them not only useful kitchen tools but also a part of the table setting. When it comes to making Neapolitan pizza, an oil cruet plays a significant role in both the preparation of the dough and the finishing of the pizza before baking. Here's how it can be used: Finishing touch : before baking, olive oil is often drizzled over the pizza toppings. This not only adds flavor but also helps in achieving a golden, crispy crust. An oil cruet is perfect for this task as it allows for a fine, controlled drizzle of oil over the pizza. Serving : in many pizzerias and Italian restaurants, an oil cruet is placed on the table, allowing diners to add a little extra olive oil to their pizza if they wish. When can I use my oil cruet? An oil cruet can be used in various situations in the kitchen and at the dining table, making it a versatile tool for both cooking and serving. Here are some common scenarios where an oil cruet comes in handy: Cooking Dressing salads : an oil cruet allows for a controlled pour of olive oil or your dressing of choice over salads. Its precise pouring helps ensure that salads are not overdressed, maintaining the right balance of flavors. Sautéing and frying : when cooking, use the cruet to drizzle oil into pans for sautéing or shallow frying. Marinating : Use the cruet to pour oil over meats, vegetables, or other foods you're preparing to marinate. Serving At the table : place the oil cruet on the dining table to allow guests or family members to add extra oil to their dishes according to their taste preferences. Finishing dishes : use the cruet for a final drizzle of oil over dishes before serving. This is often done in Mediterranean cuisine to enhance the flavor of soups, stews, pastas, and pizzas. Hosting and entertaining Oil tasting : if you're hosting a tasting event or educating guests on different types of olive oils, a cruet is an elegant way to present and serve each variety. Decorative table setting : a stylish oil cruet can add to the aesthetic of your table setting, especially if you're going for a particular theme or ambiance. How to use and clean your oil cruet Using an oil cruet is quite straightforward, but there are a few tips and techniques to get the most out of it, especially when aiming for precision and avoiding spills. Here's how to use an oil cruet effectively: Filling the cruet Choose your oil : decide on the type of oil you want to store in your cruet. Olive oil is a popular choice due to its frequent use in dressings and cooking, but you can use any liquid cooking oil. Use a funnel : to avoid spills, use a small funnel to transfer oil from its original container to the cruet. Don't overfill : leave a little space at the top to prevent spills when you insert the stopper or cap. Dispensing oil Remove the cap or stopper : carefully remove the cap, stopper, or lid from the cruet. If it has a flip-top or a spout with a cover, open it gently. Tilt and pour slowly : tilt the cruet over your cooking pan, salad, or measuring spoon, and pour the oil slowly. The design of the cruet should allow for a controlled flow of oil, enabling you to drizzle or pour as needed. After use Wipe the spout : if any oil dripped down the spout or the outside of the cruet, use a cloth or paper towel to wipe it clean. This helps prevent drips on your countertop and keeps the cruet looking neat. Replace the cap or stopper : always replace the cap, stopper, or cover after use to keep the oil fresh and prevent exposure to air, which can cause oxidation. Store properly : keep the cruet in a cool, dark place if possible, especially if it's made of clear glass. Exposure to light and heat can degrade the quality of oil over time. Where can I buy an oil cruet? You can now pre-order your 1/4 l or your 1/2l Traditional Neapolitan oil cruet at our IMPASTIAMO Shop

With the release of the new Barbie movie in 2023, there’s no doubt that Barbie-themed events will take place throughout 2024. Read on to find recipes for delicious Barbie drinks for all ages and fun ways to personalize your experience. With these drinks, every night is girls’ night.  Cocktails For the adults (because no one is too old for Barbie) who want a fun alcoholic beverage: listed below are a few simple cocktail recipes that you are sure to enjoy! Use a shaker or stir well. Enjoy! (Pink) Martini: 2 oz raspberry vodka 1 oz cranberry juice 1 oz pineapple juice Splash of grenadine Tropical Barbie: 2 oz Malibu coconut rum 1 oz cranberry juice 1 oz orange juice ½ oz lime juice Splash of club soda (Pink) Bubblegum Barbie: 1 ½ oz bubblegum-flavored vodka ½ oz raspberry liqueur ½ oz lemon juice ½ oz simple syrup Club soda Strawberry Blonde Sangria: 1 bottle of rose wine ½ cup strawberry vodka ¼ cup elderflower liqueur Strawberry slices Lemon slices Mint leaves Mocktails If you would rather have a great time without the alcohol, or want to make these options kid-friendly, listed below are mocktail recipes for your enjoyment. Just like the movie, these drinks are for anyone. (Pink) Mocktini: 2 oz raspberry syrup 2 oz cranberry juice 2 oz pineapple juice ½ oz orange juice Splash of grenadine Tropical Barbie Mocktail: 2 oz coconut water 1 oz cranberry juice 1 oz orange juice ½ oz lime juice Splash of club soda (Pink) Bubblegum Barbie Mocktail: 1 ½ oz bubblegum-flavored syrup ½ oz raspberry syrup ½ oz lemon juice ½ oz simple syrup Club soda Strawberry Blonde Sparkler: 1 bottle of non-alcoholic sparkling rose or sparkling water ½ cup strawberry syrup ¼ cup elderflower syrup Strawberry slices Lemon slices Mint leaves P is for Pink! Great, you have the basics. The wonderful thing about the ultimate Barbie drink is that you can personalize it, and what better way to do that than to make your drink pink? Most of the recipes above already have that pink hue, but in case you want to make them pinker or automatically convert some other drinks to Barbie status, here are a few ways to tickle your drink pink! A drop or two of red coloring Puree raspberries and add them to your drink! Cranberry or pomegranate juice For pink ice cubes: boil water with dried hibiscus flowers, and freeze them in an ice cube tray Fun Add-Ons For each drink, the best way to present it in a way that feels fabulous is to pay attention to the different garnishes that you can add. Whether that’s a parasol, a strawberry slice, a cherry, or a pink sugar rim, the possibilities are endless! Don’t forget your add-ons, and definitely don’t leave the fun at home. Hey, Barbie! Ultimately, the best part about these drinks is making them–maybe alone, listening to the Barbie soundtrack; or together with the people you love. Gather all your Barbies for this fun-loving activity–and celebrate your big or little wins, together. Hey Barbie! Let’s party.

Using sourdough discard to make cinnamon rolls is the best way for repurposing something to make a delicious sweet treat What Is Sourdough Discard? Sourdough discard is the portion of sourdough starter (the mixture of flour and water that contains yeast and bacteria over time) that is removed before feeding the starter. Although sourdough discard can be used to create a new starter, it can also be used in various recipes. As with the typical nature of sourdough, sourdough discard in recipes can add that tangy flavor and deepen the taste of your favorite baked goods. In addition, the moisture that it adds to recipes can make your food taste fresher for longer. Sourdough discard has been through the fermentation process, so it has health benefits as well–rich in probiotics, which is great for the gut.  A richer flavor and a healthy plus? Count us in. Here's to delicious and nutritious cinnamon rolls. Cinnamon Rolls Using Sourdough Discard Like any other recipe, there are so many ways to make sourdough discard cinnamon rolls–here’s a quick and easy recipe for you, with delicious cream cheese frosting! A general rule of thumb is to add one cup of sourdough discard to your dough. Dough 1 cup sourdough discard 1 cup warm milk ½ cup melted unsalted butter ¼ cup granulated sugar 1 teaspoon salt 4 cups flour 1 packet active dry yeast 1 egg Filling ½ cup softened unsalted butter 1 cup packed brown sugar 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon Frosting 4 oz softened cream cheese ¼ cup softened unsalted butter 1 cup powdered sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Instructions Combine discard, milk, butter, sugar, and salt. Add active dry yeast. Stir in the egg. Gradually add flour, then knead the dough until it becomes smooth. Cover the dough with a damp cloth, and let rise until it doubles in size (~1-2 hours). Preheat oven to 375 degrees F, or 190 degrees C. Spread butter over rolled-out dough and sprinkle the filling evenly. Roll the dough into a log and cut it into equal-sized rolls. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown. Let cool. Spread frosting over warm cinnamon rolls. As with any other recipe, you can personalize the filling, the toppings, and the garnish. Have fun and enjoy! Other Options The great thing about sourdough discard is that you can use it for so many other recipes. Listed below are a few other options besides cinnamon rolls, in case you want that tangy twist in some other recipes: Sugar cookies Pie crust Waffles or pancakes Muffins Pizza crust Banana bread Have fun exploring everything else you can do! With sourdough discard, this is just  the beginning.