Crocchette di melanzane - Aubergine 'Crocchette'

This is a Sicilian dish I have always loved to make, but I didn't have a precise recipe. Not because my Sicilian friends want to keep their recipes for themselves. They are generous by nature and culture, but they are simply unable to write them down. They cook following their inspiration and feelings. I watched them making their aubergine crocchette, but I needed to measure ingredients and time in order to share the recipe with everybody.

Merluzzo croccante al pistacchio - Pistachio-crusted Cod Loin

I like to be inspired by the freshness of the ingredients when I do my shopping. Today the cod was shining and pinkish on the fishmonger display. On my way home, I decide to boost its mild flavour by marinating it with lemon, garlic and paprika and to give it a crunchy finish with a pistachios crust. 

Crespelle con tagliolini e pomodoro - Tagliolini Crespelle in a Tomato Sauce

Here pasta becomes a delicious filling, giving the dish a full Italian flavour. 

Erbazzone - Swiss chard and Parmesan Pie

Erbazzone is an Italian pie, traditionally made with seasonal greens, flavoured with spring onions and garlic, and bound with eggs and cheese. As simple as that. A true dish from the 'cucina povera', which comes in many variations. 

Pollo marinato allo yogurt – Chicken Casserole in a Yogurt Dressing

I like yogurt, I make my own one at home to have it fresh in the morning, with any fruits, jam or honey. I use it in some cakes but I also like to add it to savoury dishes, such as pulse soups, pesto sauces or to replace mayonnaise in salad dressing. Here, I use it to marinate the chicken, getting closer to middle Eastern cooking rather than Italian. 

Vellutata zucca e porri - Squash and Leek Velouté

When I moved to London 23 years ago, I discovered the butternut squash, a kind of pumpkin but less sweet and more fleshy. Unknown in Italy at that time, the squash soon became the main ingredient in my autumn and winter dishes, such as soups, risotto, pasta, meat stews and even cakes. Squash was always in my pantry.