Cucina Italiana

What is it about Italian cooking that is so great? Perhaps the purity of its content. Perhaps the fresh, locally grown ingredients. Perhaps the deliciousness of the meal. Or perhaps the simplicity of its recipes and the letting go of the need to be perfect (a pinch of this, a handful of that).

I grew up eating out. Home-cooked meals on a regular basis were not a part of my background. Cooking and baking have never been one of my hobbies. But guess what? I am starting to get into it. Eating out is expensive (I am on a budget), and home-cooked meals allows me more control over what goes into my body. I now enjoy experimenting with many different dishes. Some I love and make a part of my regular diet; others I try, don't love, and move on.

Tonight's dinner is chicken, kale, and chickpea stew. Note the deep, rich colors, which are the sign of a healthful food and the staples of Italian cuisine.  It tastes as good as it looks. C'mon over.  Let's enjoy it together.

What are your favorite recipes...?