"I hope this book encourages you to use your common sense in cooking," writes TV chef and restauranteur Lidia Bastianich in the introduction to her ninth cookbook. "Don't be afraid to make substitutions. Don't be afraid to add or subtract Don't be afraid of anything when cooking."
Bastianich makes fearlessness in the kitchen easier with this collection of rather simple recipes with complex and satisfying flavors. The dishes are grouped as appetizers, soups, salads, vegetables, pastas, fish, meats and desserts. In each section there are traditional Italian favorites like Ippoglosso al Forno con Funghi Porcini (Halibut Baked with Mushrooms) and Gnocci di Formaggio (Cheese Gnocchi) as well as some casual innovations like Prosciutto Cotto al Marsala (Ham in Marsala Sauce) or Risotto all'Aglio (Garlic Risotto).
Like four previous cookbooks, this one is a companion to a public television TV series, "Lidia's Kitchen."
Bastianich sums up her commonsense approach to Italian cooking with these words of advice:
“Use local, fresh products; cook with the seasons; recycle rather than waste; make time to join family and friends at the table for a meal; do not forget to cook for yourself; and sit down and enjoy all of the above."
