The focus of this meal is on sharing plates that incorporate only the freshest, seasonal ingredients. With the help of Kirthanaa, I created a classic Italian feast consisting of focaccia accompanied by anchovies and lemon, a selection of Italian cold cuts, burrata cheese combined with purple basil and red orange, Sardines served with lemon zest and olive oil. I also make radicchio salad, dill and olive salad, asparagus, peas and watercress served with tonnato sauce. All of these are bright and colorful, so not only do they look great put together, but they’re easy to pick up as the day goes on. According to Kirthanaa, this style of party cuisine saves you prep time: “What I love about Italian cuisine is that I can create large plates of food that are not only impressive but also easy to prepare. before the party. This menu is the go-to for group lunches that won’t weigh you down!” I love hosting as much, but I’m sure I’m not alone in finding myself running around in the days leading up to the event.
While the three of us lead busy lives and like to save time if possible, Lily notes that older generations in Italy enjoy the process and time it takes to prepare meals for family or friends. Surname. “My grandmother’s generation is really caring and spending a lot of time on what they are preparing,” she explains. “I always remember reading a book at school called Like water to chocolate about how when you cook with love, miracles happen—and that always makes me think of Italians, especially my family.” Our relationship with this food is intrinsically related to our memory. Our flavors are strong and nostalgic, so when we cook for our loved ones, we automatically cook with love. This is a sentiment that will stay with me. Thanks for the proper reminder, Lily!
Top tips: It should come as no surprise that the best Italian food is made with authentic Italian ingredients. If you don’t get there soon (Lily confesses that she always brings an extra suitcase to Italy to Mulino Bianco cookies and cakes and the local Puglia cheese called Cacioricotta), then head to the nearest Italian deli.
