chiara dalessio

My vocal coach once told me that the danger of being a singer lies in the temptation to indulge in late-night food-based rendezvous with colleagues after performances: from my own humble experience, I can attest to the truth of this …

In Italian gastronomy, few spices hold a candle to the appeal and history of saffron. Known as oro rosso, or red gold, this spice made a special place for itself not only in the kitchens but also in the cultural and economic …

Italy has given the world many delicious cheeses, and, without a doubt, Parmigiano Reggiano and Grana Padano are among the most notable and beloved. Ubiquitous in our kitchens, they are commonly used in pasta dishes, can be incorporated into fillings, …

Broccoli rabe, also known as cime di rapaor rapini, holds a significant place in Italian culinary history. Its use in the kitchen can be traced back to ancient Roman times, which highlights its long-standing role in our gastronomic traditions. This vegetable, which originates …

The laurel plant, or laurus as it is known in Latin, is a symbol of triumph and honor, a plant of divine origins that found its way into our kitchens and our traditions. But have you ever wondered about the journey of this …

The Garisenda Tower rises prominently in Bologna’s historic center and is a symbol of the city’s rich history and evolving identity. Originally reaching a height of 60 meters (around 197 feet) this imposing structure was an architectural feat of its era. However, …

The Christmas market at Piazza Navona is a symbol of Rome’s festive season and its history goes hand in hand with that of the city itself. The Piazza, famed for its Baroque art and architecture, including works by Bernini and Borromini, provides …

Bruschetta: a word that has traveled the globe, gracing menus from New York and Tokyo, all the way to Sydney and Buenos Aires. This simple Italian dish has become an international icon, thanks to the universal appeal of its varied, …

Ever since I was young, I’ve had a penchant for all things Victorian and Gothic in aesthetics: this fascination naturally led me to the world of cameos, those intricate pieces of jewelry that seem to whisper tales and secrets of the …

Not many know that focaccia, timeless masterpiece of Italian cuisine, was born in the bustling kitchens of antiquity. Indeed this flatbread, sumptuously rich in olive oil and steeped in history, serves as a culinary bridge between past and present.  The debate …