I'm enamored with authentic Italian food and equally enamored with Italian wine. In Italy they say, "L'Ambiente del Vino" - the culture of wine. However, I'm trying to regain my health after cancer and to make healthier choices. It's tough because I’m the creator and founder of a fairly popular blog for Italian food, wine and culture called Così Buono!. I get invited to a lot of events for food and wine. And, food is the focal point of Italian culture. I'm at the beginning of what I know will be a lifelong quest to learn about all the regional variations in Italian cuisine, but I'm also on a quest to improve my health and lose weight. Striking a balance is a challenge. I’ve gained a lot of weight since I was treated for, and recovered from thyroid cancer. Now, I need to lose weight and get healthy. To achieve that goal, I need to learn how to cook healthier and to make healthier food choices. I’ve been a member of the Food52 community for a while, but now I’m becoming a more active member because there are so many great people on here that really know their way around food. I hope to learn from them and also share some of the things I’m learning as I try to change my eating habits to foster a healthier lifestyle.
I've always been a good Italian cook, but, I'm still a newbie when it comes to food that's not Italian. So I love this community because I learn so much, though I'm probably going to remain focused on Italian cooking. (I do make one non-Italian dish really well: Pad Thai) My father was from Italy, but I grew up with my mother's Italian American family. All of my best childhood memories revolve around holidays that were full of food. I think I'm destined to struggle with my weight and eating habits, but also to really enjoy and love food, because my birth name, which is "Mangione," means "big eater" in Italian. LOL.
- What is the strangest food you have ever eaten?
- I've never eaten anything strange. I'm in awe of the things Anthony Bourdain consumes, but I don't have his courage. I would try, though, that round thing with the orange spiny things jutting out of it. I can't remember what it is called and I dont' know where to find eat. But I'm NEVER eating anything that is still moving. yuk!
- What do you cook when home alone?
- I love to sautee fresh vegetables and herbs. I also enjoy making my own pasta and sauce. Oh, and I'm known for my "Winter Bark" so I'll post that recipe.
- Your most treasured kitchen possession:
- Indubitably, my mini-chopper. I couldn't live without it.
- The ideal number of guests for a dinner party is:
- 6 with a round table 8 if it's rectangular.
