Italian-born Rita Romano lived in Bari, Naples and La Spezia (near Genoa), where she developed an appreciation for the delectable foods found in these diverse regions. She shares a collection of the regional recipes which she calls “treasures” in her new book, Ciao Tesoro. Ciao means hi/bye. Tesoro means treasure. The two words combined mean “hello my precious one” or “darling.” Italians are very expressive and passionate people so they won’t hesitate to call you tesoro or caro (dear) even at first encounter. This passion is also expressed in their love of food.The celebration of food and wine for an Italian is a daily event overlaid with spiritual significance–not one reserved solely for special occasions. The love of good food, the intimate connection to the craft of growing and preparing it, the joy of eating and sharing it is passed from generation to generation. Cooking stimulates the senses.The hallmark of the recipes in Ciao Tesoro is a combination of simplicity and flair. Filled with full-color photos throughout and easy to follow recipes, this innovative book takes the reader through the different regions of Italy. These cover an exciting array of mouth-watering antipasti, 23 delectable pasta dishes which includes a colorful Bowtie Pasta with Red Beet Sauce, 9 unbelievably delicious fish and seafood culinary masterpieces, a number of lip smacking beef, lamb and pork entrées, topped off with 18 yummy desserts.With a special section on cooking pasta, making gnocchi, focaccia and Italian bread from scratch, home cooks will soon be creating the best Italian meals this side of Rome.What’s more, Ciao Tesoro is organized according to the type of food you want—whether it’s a soul-warming Ham and Potato Gratin, a quick sauté, or a seductive Tiramisu for dessert; recipes are easy to find and follow.Ciao Tesoro brings the readers to an exciting finale which very few cookbooks offer – homemade liqueurs to add just the right finishing touch to a meal. You are invited to experience the personal satisfaction and pleasure of creating your favorite Italian meals with Rita.Enjoy the recipes, but a word of warning — they are addictive!
