This past Mother’s Day, I experienced Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel like I have never seen it before. The traveling Exhibition showcases the awe and wonder of arguably one of mankind’s greatest artistic…
Parmigiano Reggiano, is one of Italy’s gifts to the world of food and is an essential staple in many kitchens around the globe, including mine. It’s unmistakable aroma, milky taste…
During Holy Week, we enter into Christ’s passion, death and resurrection. This is known as the Pasqual Mysteries. We not only commemorate the important events of our salvation in…
The historic French Market stands today as an enduring symbol of pride and progress for the people of New Orleans. The first iteration of today’s French Market was erected…
The Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God acknowledges and celebrates Mary’s role as the mother of Jesus Christ. This holy day of obligation is a liturgical celebration observed on…
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, a journey of spiritual growth, requiring fasting, the giving of alms and prayer. Although this is a solemn season more about self…
The Feast of the Epiphany of Our Lord Jesus Christ, is one of the oldest Christian feasts. The word epiphany comes from a Greek word meaning to appear or…
Advent marks the beginning of the church’s liturgical year. It is a season of joyful expectation, hope and preparation for the birth of our savior, Jesus Christ. The traditions…
In the United States, many of us learned about Thanksgiving in grade school. We were taught that the fifty-three pilgrims (the only colonists to survive the long voyage on…
In Italy and Sicily, nearly every small town has its own patron saint with their own celebratory feast day. The celebration known as La Festa Ognissante (All Saint’s Day),…
We were the first to arrive. The cool, crisp, invigorating air, typical of a northern California autumn morning, was perfect for a day of olive picking. The sun had…
Almond flour verses almond meal; are these ingredients the same thing? Although, some (myself included) use the terms interchangeably, technically, they are not exactly the same. Almond flour is…
Have you ever wondered why some recipes call for chopped garlic while others list minced, sliced or even whole cloves? When using fresh raw garlic, it’s important to know…
Italy has a long and rich history of famous loves and lovers. Giacomo Casanova, the famous Venetian womanizer and Rudolf Valentino, the Italian sex symbol, are two that immediately…
Nutmeg, the healthy spice that takes a back seat to your everyday spices for much of the year, comes out swinging during the holidays. This seemingly seasonal spice is…
The California State Fair recently held its inaugural Extra-Virgin Olive Oil Competition, and the winning oils will be proudly displayed during the California Exposition and State Fair – July…
Olive oil and food are just like pasta and sauce, some combinations are better than others. Perfect pairings come from recognizing similarities or contrasts of flavor and intensity. The…
In Italy, il caffe, expertly prepared, is more than just a cup of coffee, it is a religious experience. In the neighborhood cafe, (called a bar) daily life begins…
Samantha Cristoforetti, a thirty-seven year old Italian Air Force Captain and fighter pilot, is the first Italian woman astronaut. Currently working and living on the International Space Station, Captain Crisoforetti,…