Traditional trattoria fare is the essence of Italian food - honest, fresh and satisfying. These authentic recipes have been collected from all over Italy and adapted for the home cook. Simple Starters to try include Fresh Tuna Carpaccio and Three Marinated Antipasti. Warming Soups are always welcome - here you'll find Tuscan Bean Soup and Cream of Chickpea Soup with Wild Mushrooms. Mouthwatering Pasta dishes are enduringly popular. Try Spaghetti with Aubergine and Tomato Sauce or Lasagne al Forno. The ultimate in Italian comfort food, Risottos to indulge in include Red Wine, Mushroom and Pancetta Risotto. Making your own Pizza & Bread is surprisingly easy and hugely satisfying - enjoy a classic Pizza al Margherita or a freshly baked Rosemary Focaccia. Rich and hearty Meat & Poultry dishes to try include Pork Loin Roasted with Rosemary and Garlic; Beefsteak with Arugula; and Devilled Grilled Chicken. Traditional dishes for Fish & Seafood include Seabass Baked in Parchment and Grilled Tuna Steaks with Peperonata. Choose the perfect accompaniment to your meal from Salads & Sides. Recipes include Orange, Endive and Black Olive Salad and Pumpkin Roasted with Sage and Onion. Finish with something from Sweet Things such as Caramelized Fig Tart.

Author Biography

Maxine Clark teaches at Alistair Little's Tasting Places in Sicily and Tuscany. She is the author of many books, including Easy Italian, Maxine Clark's Italian Kitchen and Flavours of Tuscany (all published by Ryland Peters & Small).