the celebrity

italian table Celebrities Share Their Italian Table

for America’s Second Harvest –
The Nation's Food Bank Network

Chris Daughtry  Debra Messing  Natalie Portman

Stanley Tucci  Marisa Tomei  Mario Batali  David Tutera
 contents
Photography provided by Lou Manna
WELCOME . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Food styling by A.J. Battifarano

AMERICA’S SECOND HARVEST. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

GUEST EDITORS
Mario Batali . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
David Tutera. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

CELEBRITY RECIPES
Romantic Dinner (Chris Daughtry) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Celebratory Feast (Debra Messing) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Girlfriends' Gathering (Natalie Portman). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Family Night (Stanley Tucci) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Dinner Party (Marisa Tomei) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Babbo (Mario Batali) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

THE STORY OF BARILLA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

 welcome

Thank you for downloading the Celebrity Italian Table Cookbook – our second
charitable cookbook benefiting America’s Second Harvest, the nation’s largest
charitable hunger-relief organization.
We are excited to partner this year with five Hollywood as our friends Mario Batali and David Tutera for their time and

celebrities, renowned chef Mario Batali and entertaining expert effort creating this book and raising awareness for such an

David Tutera for year two of this breakthrough initiative. important cause.

We began more than 130 years ago as a small pasta shop in Italy We are grateful to the millions of Americans who have embraced

and are now the world’s leading pasta producer. Throughout our Barilla and America’s Second Harvest.

history, however, our guiding philosophy has always remained the

Welcome to our Italian Table, and thank you for doing your part
same: We’re a family-run company dedicated to developing and
to help prevent hunger.
sharing delicious, wholesome products with people around the

world who love pasta and Italian food. Grazie Mille,

In Italy, all of life’s moments are celebrated and shared around

the table. Just the basics are needed – great food, family and
Kirk Trofholz
friends, good conversation and laughter.
President, Barilla America

At Barilla, we take pride in helping families and friends come

together to share food and enjoy life. We believe that creating,

cooking and enjoying food is an art. It is, of course, also a basic

human need.

Unfortunately, far too many people – more than 35 million,

12 million of whom are children – have limited access to food

due to financial difficulties. We invite you to join us as we do our

part to blend our passion for great pasta and authentic Italian

cuisine with a great cause.

For the month of February 2008, Barilla will donate $1 to

America’s Second Harvest for every person – up to $100,000 –

who downloads our cookbook.

Through last year’s cookbook project, America’s Second Harvest

was able to provide more than 3 million meals to families in

need. Please help spread the word and invite your friends and

family to join your Italian Table.

On behalf of everyone at Barilla, we’d like to thank all the

1
celebrities who graciously contributed to this project, as well
 a m e r i c a ’ s s e c o n d h a rv e s t
Dear Friend,

We are excited to partner again with Barilla to bring you 50,000 local charitable agencies that operate more than 94,000

“The Celebrity Italian Table Cookbook.” This project builds on initiatives, from school lunch programs to disaster-relief efforts.

the overwhelming success of last year’s Barilla cookbook, which

America’s Second Harvest would like to extend a special thank
allowed America’s Second Harvest - The Nation’s Food Bank
you to Barilla – and to you – for being part of the solution to end
Network to provide more than 3 million meals to families across
hunger in America.
the United States.
Please visit www.secondharvest.org to learn how to further
“The Celebrity Italian Table Cookbook” offers great recipes
contribute to your local food bank or for more information on
and creative ideas for gathering your friends and family around
how you can get involved in any of our programs.
the table – and, at the same time, each download of the book

helps to feed hungry children, families and the elderly in Sincerely,

your community.

America’s Second Harvest is the largest charitable domestic

Vicki Escarra
hunger-relief organization in the country with more than 2 billion
President and CEO
pounds of donated food and grocery products distributed across

the country annually. Each year, the organization provides food

2 assistance to more than 25 million people in the United States via
 pristine ingredients,
Perfectly

combined sensibly and cooked

properly, are the hallmarks of the best

Italian food.

Biography
Mario Batali

Raised in Seattle, Mario Batali studied briefly at Le Cordon (Clarkson Potter, 1998); Mario Batali Holiday Food (Clarkson

Bleu in London, followed by an apprenticeship with London’s Potter, 2000); The Babbo Cookbook (Clarkson Potter, 2002);

legendary chef Marco Pierre White and three years of intense Molto Italiano: 327 Simple Italian Recipes (Ecco, 2005), and

culinary training in the tiny Northern Italian village of Borgo Mario Tailgates NASCAR Style (The Sporting News 2006).

Capanne. He returned to the U.S. and in 1998 opened his now Mario’s upcoming cookbook and grilling handbook – Mario

legendary New York City restaurant, Babbo Ristorante e Enoteca, Batali – Italian Grilling (Ecco, 2008), takes the mystery out of

which was honored as “The Best New Restaurant of 1998” by making tasty, authentic, smoky Italian food.

The James Beard Foundation and awarded three stars by Ruth

In 2002 Mario won the James Beard Foundation’s “Best Chef:
Reichl. Six years later, a re-review by The New York Times’ Food
New York City” award, and in 2005 the James Beard Foundation
Critic, Frank Bruni, maintained Babbo’s three-star power and its
awarded Mario “Outstanding Chef of the Year.”
excellence among New York City’s finest restaurants
Mario splits his time between New York City’s Greenwich Village
Today he and his partners own several other renowned
and Northern Michigan with his wife Susi Cahn of Coach Dairy
restaurants in New York, Los Angeles and Las Vegas. A new
Goat Farm and their two sons.
steakhouse – Carnevino – is scheduled to open in January

2008 in the Palazzo hotel in Las Vegas, adjacent to the

Venetian Hotel Casino.

Mario also engages in fierce culinary battles on the Food

Network series “Iron Chef America.” Next Fall, his new PBS series

with co-stars Mark Bittman and Gwyneth Paltrow will air. “Spain…

On the Road Again” will follow the threesome’s adventures as

they travel and eat their way through Spain. Mario has also
4
authored numerous books, including Simple Italian Food
Dressing an Italian table, casual or formal, is

all about creating a warm and inviting

surrounding that draws family and friends

quality time and

around the table for

great conversations. Mealtime is not

just about eating. It’s about celebrating with

loved ones and living everyday in style.

Biography
David Tutera

Leading entertaining expert David Tutera is hailed as an artistic was awarded the “2005 Best Celebrity Wedding Planner” by Life
visionary whose ability, uniquely creative talents and outstanding & Style Magazine.
reputation have made him a tremendous success in the lifestyle
In addition, David is the host of two television series, “Get
arena. Tutera has created a name for himself by taking his passion
Married” (Lifetime Television) and “Party Planner with David
for designing spectacular events and transforming it into
Tutera” (The Discovery Home Channel). His four books Big
a lifestyle.
Birthdays, (Bulfinch Press/May, 2006); The Party Planner
Tutera’s grandfather, a successful florist, first noticed his (Bulfinch Press); America Entertains: A Year of Imaginative
grandson’s artistic ability at an early age and encouraged David Parties (Stewart, Tabori and Chang); and A Passion for Parties:
to pursue his destiny. At age 19, with the sound advice of his Your Guide to Elegant Entertaining (Simon & Schuster) are
grandfather and only one client, David opened his own event- available in stores. To continue his passion, David Tutera
planning business. Today, David Tutera Inc. is an award-winning Entertaining, a line of five exceptional tabletop collections, is
company built from experience, dedication and Tutera’s natural available in Macy’s Department Stores and STEM by David
talent for transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. Tutera, a full-service retail florist and gift shop located in
His name has become synonymous with style, elegance, Atlantic City, N.J. is now open. For more information, visit
creativity and vision. www.davidtutera.com.

Honored in 2006 by Modern Bride Magazine as one of the

“Top 25 Trendsetters of The Year,” David is also a Contributing

Entertaining Expert on ABC’s hit morning show “The View” and

TBS’s “Movie & A Makeover.” He is also a professional speaker

hired by Condé Nast, InStyle and many others to lecture on the

topics of weddings, lifestyle, design and more. In addition, David

5
 romantic inspired by Chris Daughtry
created by chef Mario Batali & entertaining expert David Tutera
night Eggplant Involtini | Rigatoni with Basil and GorgonzolA | Cherry jam tart

ambiance
THEME There’s nothing more romantic than a late-night into planter boxes can help transform an ordinary space into

gondola ride through Venice, which inspired this intimate setting a romantic retreat. Use red-tinted glass votive candle holders in

on a floating dock. To add to the romance, roses, rose petals, surrounding locations to extend the mood and ambiance.

candles and crystals were used in abundance. Rich, passionate,

deep tones of red, purple and gold inspire this romantic dinner

for two.

SOUND Add a personal touch by creating your own playlist

with meaningful songs.

LIGHTING Candles add a warm romantic glow to any setting.

When dining outside, candelabras and taper candles planted

6
 TABLE SETTINGS
SPECIAL TOUCHES Decorating the chairs in sheer fabric adds
DÉCOR Roses and rose petals create a soft texture and add to
more soft texture. In this setting, authentic Venetian masks tied
the romance of the evening. A soft rose can be used for petals.
to the chairs created an additional element of enchantment. To
A firm rose head will open beautifully and last a few days. For
add a Venetian touch to your setting, purchase smaller masks,
this table, hollow the center of two firm rose heads and fill each
available online, to accent each napkin. Use gold-accented
with salt and pepper for instant cellars. Loose crystals hanging
plates and glassware to enrich the look.
from the table’s candelabra and sprinkled across the table also

add reflection and sparkle as the sun sets to enhance the mood. TOASTING TIP Celebrate with Prosecco, an Italian sparkling
You can use crystals from an arts-and-crafts store or crystals wine. It is less expensive than many Champagnes and there is
from a chandelier, which are available in the lighting section a huge variety to choose from.
of hardware stores. Add color and movement to the table with

vibrant ribbon. In this setting, flowing ribbons were tied to the

candelabra-centerpiece.

To fit with Chris Daughtry’s personality,

I chose strong and romantic

colors of red and burgundy with purple

and gold – all very rich and royal,

with a little bit of a rocker twist.

— David Tutera
7
 appetizer
Eggplant Involtini with
Ricotta and Scallions
Involtini di Melazane
4 servings | prep time 25 min | cook time 30 min

DIRECTIONS
In a 10 to 12-inch sauté pan, heat 2 cups of the olive oil over
medium-high heat until the oil reaches 370° F. Add the eggplant
slices 3 or 4 at a time and fry, turning once, until soft and light
golden brown, about 2 minutes. Transfer to paper towels
to drain.
 reheat oven to 375° F. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta
P
cheese, egg, scallions and nutmeg; mix well. Season the mixture
with salt and pepper. Lay the drained eggplant slices out on
a work surface and place 1 tablespoon of the ricotta filling at the
base of each slice. Roll the eggplant up and around the filling to
form a neat roll and set seam side down on the work surface.
Lightly oil a baking dish large enough to hold the eggplant INGREDIENTS
roll-ups. Pour the sauce into the dish and place the rolls seam • 2 ¼ cups extra virgin olive oil Basic Tomato Sauce
side down in the sauce. Bake until the cheese starts to melt out • 3 medium eggplants, sliced • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
of the rolls, about 15 minutes. Drizzle with the remaining ¼ cup lengthwise, ¹/ -inch-
³ • 1 Spanish onion, cut into
olive oil, sprinkle with parsley and serve. thick slices ¼-inch diced pieces
• 1 cup ricotta cheese • 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
Basic Tomato Sauce: • 1 large egg • 3 tablespoons fresh thyme,
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 35 minutes | Makes 4 cups • 2 scallions, thinly sliced chopped
In a 3-quart saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, • ½ medium carrot,
Add the onion and garlic and cook until soft and light golden freshly grated finely shredded
brown, 8 to 10 minutes. Add the thyme and carrot and cook • Salt, to taste • Two 28-ounce cans
until the carrot is quite soft, about 5 minutes. • Freshly ground black whole tomatoes
Add the tomatoes, with their juice, and bring to a boil, stirring pepper, to taste • Salt, to taste
often. Lower the heat and simmer until as thick as hot cereal, • 2 cups Basic Tomato Sauce
about 30 minutes. Season with salt. The sauce can be (recipe follows)
refrigerated for up to 1 week or frozen for 6 months. • ¼ cup whole parsley leaves

Main Dish: Rigatoni with Basil and Gorgonzola

8
 Main dish
Rigatoni with Basil and Gorgonzola
Rigatoni con Basilico e Gorgonzola
4 servings | prep time 15 min | cook time 20 min

DIRECTIONS
Bring 6 quarts water to boil and add salt to taste.
I used to work as a prep cook at a country club
and the executive chef made it for me and I fell in
Meanwhile, in a 14 to 16-inch sauté pan, heat the pepper flakes
and tomato sauce over medium high heat. Once the mixture love with it. I love cheese and I love basil, so it’s
comes to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes or a perfect combo. I never see it in restaurants and
until the sauce is thick like hot cereal.
I’d love to see more of it.
Cook the Barilla Rigatoni in the boiling water 1 minute less than
the package instructions. Drain the pasta and add to the pan
with the sauce. Turn the heat to medium and toss gently for
about 10 seconds. Tear the basil leaves into a few pieces and INGREDIENTS
add to the sauce. Add the gorgonzola cubes and toss together
• 1 teaspoon hot red pepper flakes
for 1 minute. Pour into a heated bowl and serve immediately.
• 2 cups Basic Tomato Sauce (see recipe on page 8)
• 1 pound Barilla Rigatoni
• ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, lightly packed
• ½ pound gorgonzola cheese, cut into ½-inch cubes

d e s s e rt
Cherry Jam Tart
Crostata di Ciliegie
8-10 servings | prep time 20 min | cook time 55 min

DIRECTIONS
Combine the flour, sugar, salt, and zest in a food processor and
pulse 2 or 3 times to mix. Add the butter and pulse until the
mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

In a small bowl, beat the egg yolks together with the cold vin
santo. With the machine running, add to the flour mixture and
process for 5 to 6 seconds, or until the dough comes together
and leaves the sides of the work bowl. Turn the dough out,
shape it into a disk, and wrap in plastic. Refrigerate for at least
30 minutes.

INGREDIENTS
Preheat the oven to 425° F. Butter a large baking sheet or line it
with parchment paper.
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup superfine sugar Thin the cherry jam with 1-2 teaspoon of hot water, stirring until
smooth. Add a few grindings of black pepper to heighten the
• Pinch of salt
flavor of the cherries and stir again. Set aside.
• Grated zest of 1 lemon
• ½ pound (2 sticks) unsalted butter, Roll out the dough between two sheets of wax paper to form
cut into ½-inch pieces and chilled a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer dough to the
• 3 large egg yolks prepared baking sheet. Leaving a 2-inch border uncovered,
spread the cherry mixture over the dough. Fold the edges of the
• ¼ cup cold vin santo
dough up over the jam, pleating it as necessary.
• 2 cups cherry jam
• 2 or 3 turns of the peppermill Bake the tart for 20 to 25 minutes or until the pastry is deeply
golden brown and the filling is glossy. Cool on a rack for several 9
minutes and serve warm with glasses of vin santo.
 celebratory inspired by Debra Messing
created by chef Mario Batali & entertaining expert David Tutera
feast Mozzarella in Carozza | Penne in a creamy tomato sauce | Chocolate Hazelnut Fritters

ambiance
THEME Inspired by the endless hills of Tuscany filled

with fields of grape vines and sunflowers, this setting uses a

combination of each to create the perfect background for a

celebration. The use of earth tones combined with the colorful

gold from the sunflowers provides warmth to this table to set

the mood.

SOUND For a table inspired by Tuscany, play music inspired by

Tuscany, such as Andrea Boccelli’s Cieli di Toscana CD.

LIGHTING Cover clear glass votive candle holders in copper

leaf to complement and dress up the table and add a warm

10 flickering glow to the runner. This is a simple thing to do that

adds a touch of elegance to the table.

 TABLE SETTINGS
SPECIAL TOUCHES To add additional color and whimsy to the
DÉCOR For this setting, a unique and creative centerpiece was
table, place fresh, flush-cut sunflower heads at each setting and
used to create a Tuscan-inspired table filled with life, color and
accent them with a small bumble bee decoration, which can be
texture. Mature grape vines were “planted” into terracotta pots
found at any arts and craft store. In this setting, pretty glasses
and tied together with thin copper wire. For an added vineyard
etched with a vine print were also used to carry out the theme.
touch, mounds of plump grapes were lined down the center of
Also, consider creating place cards for each setting. This shows
the table and accented with corks from wine bottles. If you don’t
guests the time and effort you spent thinking about the evening.
have enough wine corks saved to add as decor, new corks can

easily be purchased online. After the celebration, don’t let the

grapes go to waste. Simply clean, dry and place them in sealed

bags and freeze, or give them to your guests as a parting gift in

more decorative bags.

PLATING To continue the Tuscan theme, select plates with

metallic or earth tones, such as rich bronze or copper or

marigold. To dress up your everyday plates, use a more

decorative charger. The table used in this setting was wood –

however, if you don’t have a wood table, try using a simple

brown tablecloth to add warmth. In addition, try serving

some of your favorite red wines in small decanters. They will

look great on the table and allow the wine to breathe.

The entire table was kept fun and

happy, to marry with Debra Messing’s
upbeat and lively personality.
The wonderful combination of earth tones

and multiple textures provides the perfect

background for a celebration of any kind.
— David Tutera 11
 appetizer
Grilled Mozzarella Sandwiches
Mozzarella in Carozza
4 servings | prep time 10 min | cook time 15 min

DIRECTIONS
Place the mozzarella pieces on 4 slices of the bread. Cover with
the 4 remaining slices of bread to form sandwiches. Trim the
crusts off to make perfect 4-inch squares.

In a wide shallow bowl, whisk the eggs. Add the cream, thyme,
salt and nutmeg and whisk until well blended.

In a 10 to 12-inch nonstick sauté pan, heat 2 tablespoons

of the olive oil over medium-high heat until smoking. Add
1 tablespoon of the butter and cook until the sizzling subsides.
Dip 2 of the sandwiches into the egg mixture, turning to coat,
place in the pan, and cook until golden brown on first side,
about 2 minutes. Flip over and brown on the other side. INGREDIENTS

Transfer the sandwiches to individual plates and repeat the • 1 pound fresh buffalo mozzarella, cut into 4 equal pieces
process with the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 tablespoon about 3 inches by 4 inches
butter and 2 sandwiches. Cut in half and serve immediately. • 8 slices firm white sandwich bread, ½-inch-thick
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 teaspoon salt
• A grating of nutmeg
• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Main Dish: Penne in a Creamy

Tomato Sauce

12
 Main dish
Penne in a Creamy Tomato Sauce
Penne alla Vodka
4 servings | prep time 5 min | cook time 25 min

DIRECTIONS
This is my ultimate comfort food dish. Its textures
are smooth and creamy, and its taste is rich. The
Bring 6 quarts water to boil and add salt to taste.

In a large sauté pan, heat oil over medium heat until just
best partnering is a hard crust, soft-centered warm
smoking. Add onions and cook until light golden brown, about
6 to 7 minutes. Add the vodka and cook until liquid is reduced by piece of bread on the side to sop up the last bit of
half, about 4 to 5 minutes. Add the tomato sauce and the cream
and cook until the sauce has reduced by a third, about
delicious sauce. And of course, a glass of red wine!
10 minutes.

Meanwhile, cook the Barilla Penne in the boiling water for

1 minute less than the package directions indicate. Drain the INGREDIENTS
pasta and add it to the saucepan. Stir together over very high • 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
heat for 1 minute, until thoroughly coated. Remove pan from • 1 medium red onion, cut into ¼ inch dices
heat, add grated Parmigiano cheese and toss for 20 seconds to • ½ cup vodka
mix well. Divide the pasta among four bowls, grate Parmigiano
• 2 cups Basic Tomato Sauce (see recipe on page 8)
Reggiano cheese over each bowl and serve immediately.
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 pound Barilla Penne
• 1 cup Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, grated, plus a piece to
grate fresh

d e s s e rt
Chocolate Hazelnut Fritters
Fritelle di Cioccolato
about 18 fritters | prep time 35 min | cook time 45 min

DIRECTIONS
Mound the flour on a work surface and make a well in the center.
Add the salt, sugar, lemon zest, the ½ cup olive oil and 2
tablespoons wine, and gradually mix in the flour. If the dough is
very dry, add 1 more tablespoon of wine. Knead for 5 minutes or
until firm but tender. Wrap the dough in plastic and let it rest for
30 minutes.

In a small bowl, combine the chocolate, nuts and jam and mix
well. Cover the filling and set aside.
INGREDIENTS On a floured surface, roll the dough out to ¼-inch thickness.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour • ¹/³ cup hazelnuts, toasted Using a 3-inch round cookie cutter, cut out as many circles as
• Pinch of salt and coarsely chopped possible. Place a dab of filling on each circle of dough, moisten
• ½ cup apricot jam the edges with a bit of beaten egg and fold each round in half,
• 5 teaspoons sugar
pressing the edges with your fingertips to seal, or crimp with
• Zest of 1 lemon, grated • 1 egg, lightly beaten
a fork.
• 4 ½ cups extra virgin olive oil • Honey for brushing
• 4 to 6 tablespoons dry the fritters In a large deep pot, heat the remaining oil to 350° F. Working in
white wine • Confectioners’ sugar batches, fry the fritters until they are deep golden brown. With
for dusting a slotted spoon, transfer fritters to paper towels to drain. Brush
• ½ cup bittersweet chocolate,
each fritter with honey, dust with confectioner’s sugar and serve
roughly chopped 13
hot or at room temperature.
 inspired by Natalie Portman
girlfriends’ created by chef Mario Batali & entertaining expert David Tutera
gathering Panelle with Prosciutto | Penne in a spicy sauce with capers and olives | Orange Tart

ambiance
THEME The freshness of Italy sets the stage for this casual To recreate the votive candle holders featured, hold the lemon

girlfriends’ gathering. The myriad roadside stands that sell fresh so that the two tips are facing left and right. Cut-flush the bottom,

produce throughout Italy were the perfect inspiration. so it can stand evenly on a flat surface. Carve out a small hole on

One fruit that is always found in abundance and represents the top of the lemon – just big enough to house

freshness is the lemon – our muse for this table setting. a tealight. Insert the tealight and you are good

to go! Accent the lemons and create

SOUND Conversations are the focal point of the evening.
more ambiant lighting with
Play soft, contemporary lyrical music in the background.
complementary handmade
LIGHTING Votive and tapered candles create a warm look to candle holders. Cut-flush
any place setting. Carve out space in lemons, limes or even styrofoam spheres, found
artichokes. These unique holders will add fresh flavor to your at any craft store, to the
14 table – and the best part is they’re disposable afterward. bottom and cover in artificial

lemon leaves. Top the holders off with

yellow taper candles.

 TABLE SETTINGS
When setting your table, use your thumbnail to distance
DÉCOR The secret to creating a simple setting is to design
the edge of your charger plates and flatware from the edge
with one concept in abundance and carry the style throughout.
of the table to keep settings placed appropriately and in
Add beauty and fragrance to your table by filling a bowl with
a uniform fashion.
large lemons to serve as the centerpiece. Accent the bowl with

fresh lemon leaves and small craft butterflies for a whimsical SPECIAL TOUCHES To add beauty and a sense of fun, carry
touch. You can also create circular placemats made with lemon out the whimsical butterflies from the centerpiece in other
leaves. Simply glue the leaves to round pieces of fabric cut elements throughout the table. In this setting, pewter butterfly
to size. The placemats will protect your table from unwanted napkin rings and coordinating salt and pepper shakers were used.
scratches and if you store them with tissue paper, you can use

them for years to come.

PLATING Keep it simple, yet feminine. Set the table using

plates with lace-style cutouts and select Battenberg lace-accented

napkins to match. Pretty etched glassware adds to the femininity

needed for a girlfriends’ gathering.

It was important to keep the setting young

and fresh to pair with the style of Natalie
Portman. The design is clean and simple,

yet feminine and fun – perfect for

a gathering of the best of girlfriends.

— David Tutera
15
 appetizer
Sicilian Chickpea Fritters
Panelle
about 20 fritters | prep time 10 min | cook time 45 min

DIRECTIONS
Lightly oil a 9 by 12-inch baking pan.

In a 4-quart saucepan, combine the chickpea flour and salt.

Gradually add the water, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
Stir in the grated cheese and parsley. Place the saucepan over
medium heat and cook, stirring continually, until the mixture is
as thick as hot cereal, about 10 minutes. Pour the mixture into
the oiled baking pan and let cool.

Invert the chickpea mixture onto a cutting board. Using cookie

or other metal cutters, cut into decorative shapes and transfer to
a plate. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

In a heavy, deep 4-quart saucepan, heat the olive oil over

INGREDIENTS
medium-high heat until it reaches 365° F. Drop the panelle
shapes into the oil in batches, 6 or 7 at a time. Turn pieces once • 1 ²/³ cups chickpea flour (see note)
or twice during cooking, until deep golden brown, about 4 • 1 teaspoon salt
minutes. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. • 4 cups water
Serve warm with ricotta cheese on the side. • ¼ cup Pecorino Sardo cheese, freshly grated
• ¼ cup Italian parsley, finely chopped
• 4 cups extra virgin olive oil for deep-frying
• ¾ cup ricotta cheese
NOTE: Chickpea flour is available at Italian markets and
some specialty grocers. Do not use Indian chickpea flour.

Main Dish: Penne in a Spicy Sauce

with Capers and Olives

16
 Main dish
Penne in a Spicy Sauce with
Capers and Olives
Penne alla Puttanesca
4 servings | prep time 20 min | cook time 40 min

INGREDIENTS • 2 tablespoons salt packed

giant capers, rinsed and
• ½ pound young zucchini,
drained
sliced ¼-inch thick, into
half-moon shapes • ¼ cup tiny black olives
• 2 cloves garlic, • ½ lemon, juiced
sliced paper thin • 2 tablespoons kosher or sea
• 12 large leaves basil, salt for the pasta cooking water
torn in half • 1 pound Barilla Penne
• 1 can (16 ounces) tomatoes, • 2 tablespoons crushed red I like the vegetarian version of this dish – that
roughly chopped, retaining pepper flakes
seeds and liquid • Freshly ground black pepper,
is – without anchovies; it’s a classic tomato sauce
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil to taste but with a little extra special something.
DIRECTIONS
In a large bowl, combine the zucchini, garlic, basil, tomatoes,
olive oil, capers, olives, lemon juice, and salt. Allow to cool for
30 minutes.
d e s s e rt
Meanwhile, bring 6 quarts water to boil in large pot and add Orange Tart Capri-Style
salt to taste. Cook the Barilla Penne according to the package Torta di Arancia Caprese
instructions until tender yet al dente, about 10 to 12 minutes.
Drain the pasta in a colander and add to the cool vegetables. 8-10 servings | prep time 20 min | cook time 1 hr. 45 min
Toss in chili flakes, additional basil and cracked black pepper to
taste. Stir gently to mix well and serve.
DIRECTIONS
To make the pastry, combine the flour, salt, sugar and lemon zest
in a medium bowl. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles
coarse crumbs. In a small bowl, combine the egg, yolk, liqueur
and confectioners’ sugar. Stir sugar mixture into the flour mixture
with a fork until the dough just comes together. Turn out onto
a floured board and gently knead until a smooth dough is
formed. Press the dough into a disk about 6 inches across;
wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for 15 minutes.

Butter a 10-inch quiche pan. On a floured surface, roll the dough

out to a 12-inch circle. Fit the dough into the tart pan and trim
the excess. Wrap the pan in plastic wrap and refrigerate for
30 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 400° F. Prick the pastry shell all over with
INGREDIENTS
a fork. Line the shell with foil and fill with dried beans, rice or pie
Pastry Filling weights. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove the foil and weights,
• 2 cups all-purpose flour • Finely grated zest of 1 orange reduce heat to 375° F and bake for 10 to 15 minutes more until
• ½ teaspoon salt • 1 ¹/³ cups fresh orange juice golden. Remove from the oven and allow to cool on a rack.
• 2 tablespoons sugar • ¼ cup dark brown sugar, Reduce the oven to 350° F.
• Grated zest of 2 lemons packed To make the filling, combine the orange zest, juice, brown sugar
• 12 tablespoons (1½ sticks) • ½ cup mascarpone (may and mascarpone in a medium bowl and beat well with a mixer or
unsalted butter, cut into substitute cream cheese) a whisk. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each
½-inch cubes, chilled • 7 large eggs addition. Beat in the liqueur.
• 1 large egg • 3 tablespoons Pour the filling into the pastry shell. Bake until the custard is set,
• 1 large egg yolk orange liqueur about 45 minutes. Allow to cool and dust with confectioners’
• 2 tablespoons orange • Confectioners’ sugar, 17
sugar before serving.
liqueur, such as Grand Marnier for garnish
• 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
 family inspired by Stanley Tucci
created by chef Mario Batali & entertaining expert David Tutera
dinner mixed fried vegetables | Spaghetti with italian tuna sauce | Chocolate Cake from Abruzzo

ambiance
THEME Inspired by classical Italian entertaining, this casual

setting captures a family-style dinner where conversations are the

focus of the evening.

SOUND Fill the air with fun, lively and festive music. Listen to

Dean Martin’s “That’s Amore,” “Everybody Loves Somebody”

or “Sway.”

LIGHTING Time your outdoor family gathering so that dessert

comes at sunset, which will allow you to enjoy the changing of

natural light.

18
 TABLE SETTINGS
TIP Cheese is best served at room temperature. When having
DÉCOR Simple and casual. Dress the table with a colorful oil
a sit-down dinner, plan ahead and plate cheeses at least 30
cloth, which is great for everyday entertaining indoors or out-
minutes prior to meal time to allow the temperature of the
doors. Simple clusters of cut geraniums placed in old mason jars
cheese to adjust.
add a touch of color and resemble the abundance of geraniums

commonly found in window boxes and urns throughout Italy. PLATING Use basic white china and everyday highball
For form and function, create a Lazy Susan. You can replicate glasses – perfect for a cool glass of water or milk for the kids and
the idea of the vintage Barilla postcard decoupage by using any Chianti for the adults. To add a simple touch, roll the flatware
paper design sealed by adhesive for long-term use, and place within the napkin and tie with a natural colored twine. This will
in the center of the table. To complete this family-friendly meal, help for windy days.
top the table with olive oil, vinegar, salt and pepper. Also, add

baskets of homemade breads and olive wood-cutting boards

adorned with Italian cheeses.

Stanley Tucci has a no frills, no fuss

personality, therefore I created a simple

and casual setting for a family-style

dinner with homage to classic

Italian entertaining. 19

— David Tutera
 appetizer
Mixed Fried Vegetables
Fritto Misto di Verdura
6 servings | prep time 25 min | cook time 20 min

DIRECTIONS
In a large deep saucepan, preferably one with a basket, heat
the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches a temperature of
375° F. Meanwhile, combine half of the vegetables and half
of the lemon slices in a large bowl. Sprinkle with 1 cup of the
cornstarch and toss with your hands to coat. Transfer vegetables
into a large strainer and shake to remove excess cornstarch.

Carefully drop the vegetables and lemon slices into the hot oil
and cook until golden brown and crispy, 3 to 4 minutes. Transfer
to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Repeat with the
remaining vegetables and lemon slices; allow the oil to return to
375° F before adding this batch. INGREDIENTS
Season the hot fried vegetables with salt and serve immediately • 8 cups extra virgin olive oil, for deep-frying
with the lemon wedges. • 8 ounces small sweet peas in pod or sugar snap peas
• 8 ounces green beans, ends snapped off
• 1 head broccoli, cut into small florets
• 2 bunches scallions, trimmed to 4-inch long pieces
• 1 zucchini, cut into ¼-inch thick rounds
• 1 yellow pepper, cored, seeded, and cut into ½-inch wide strips
• 1 red pepper, cored, seeded, and cut into ½-inch wide strips
• 4 lemons, 2 cut into thin slices, 2 cut into wedges
• 2 cups cornstarch
• Salt, to taste

Main Dish: Spaghetti with

Italian Tuna Sauce

20
 main dish
Spaghetti with Italian Tuna Sauce
Spaghetti al Tonno
4 servings | prep time 10 min | cook time 15 min

INGREDIENTS
• ½ cup extra virgin olive oil • 1 can Italian tuna,
• 1 large red onion, packed in oil
thinly sliced • 1 teaspoon fresh marjoram
• 2 cups Basic Tomato Sauce • 1 pound Barilla Spaghetti
(see recipe on page 8) • 1 bunch Italian parsley, finely
• 1 teaspoon hot red chopped to yield ¼ cup
pepper flakes

DIRECTIONS
Bring 6 quarts water to boil and add salt to taste.
Spaghetti al Tonno is simple, quick, inexpensive, sweet,
Meanwhile, in a 10 to 12-inch sauté pan, heat 2 tablespoons
olive oil over medium heat until almost smoking. Add the onions delicate, filling and combines pasta with protein all in one.
and cook until softened, about 8 minutes. Add tomato sauce
and hot red pepper flakes and bring to boil. Add the tuna and
marjoram and return to a boil; remove pan from the heat.

Cook the Barilla Spaghetti in boiling water 1 minute less than the
package instructions indicate. Drain in colander and transfer
pasta to the pan with tuna sauce, stirring carefully to coat.
Add the parsley and cook for 1 minute. Transfer to a warmed
d e s s e rt
serving bowl and serve immediately. Chocolate Cake from Abruzzo-Parozzo
Torta di Cioccolato Abruzzese
8 servings | prep time 25 min | cook time 40 min

DIRECTIONS
Preheat the oven to 375° F. Butter a 9-inch round cake pan.

In a food processor, grind the blanched almonds to a fine

powder; add a little of the sugar if necessary to keep the nuts
from becoming a paste. Set aside.

Sift together the flour, cornstarch and nutmeg into a small bowl.
Set aside.

In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks with an electric mixer until
blended. Gradually add the ground almonds and the remaining
sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Gradually add the flour
mixture and then the cooled butter, beating well after
each addition.

INGREDIENTS
In a separate large bowl, beat the egg whites with clean beaters
until they form stiff, glossy peaks. Fold them into the batter.
• 1 ½ cups sliced • 5 tablespoons unsalted
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake for about 40
blanched almonds butter, melted and cooled
minutes, until the cake is firm to the touch and golden. Let cool
• ¾ cup sugar in the pan for 15 minutes, then turn out of the pan onto a rack
• ½ cup all-purpose flour Glaze and let cool completely.
• 6 tablespoons cornstarch • 6 ounces bittersweet
chocolate, finely chopped To make the glaze, melt the chocolate and the butter over very
• ¹/8 teaspoon nutmeg, low heat in a small heavy saucepan, stirring frequently until
freshly grated • 2 tablespoons
smooth. Remove from the heat.
unsalted butter
• 7 extra-large eggs, 21
separated Place the glaze on top of the cake and spread it over the top and
sides with a spatula. Serve at room temperature.
 dinner inspired by Marisa Tomei
created by chef Mario Batali & entertaining expert David Tutera
party Autumn Vegetable Salad | Farfalle with pancetta, rucola and truffle paste | Lemon Tart

ambiance
THEME The charm and beauty of old-world Rome inspired LIGHTING Make use of your

this table setting for an elegant evening with friends. Combining surrounding. A candlelit chandelier

old world Italy with a modern twist brings warmth and comfort to embellished with ferns from the

this table, allowing guests to enjoy each other’s company for the backyard adds color and texture,

evening. Set beneath an antique gazebo, the table is open and along with warmth, to the iron gazebo.

airy for dinner at sunset - a romantic, yet welcoming atmosphere. Chandeliers, whether indoor or

outdoor, should be hung at 36 inches

SOUND In this outdoor setting, enjoy the beautiful sounds
above the table so that you enjoy
echoing from nature around you. If you’d prefer a little
a central focal point, while leaving room
background music, play a little Peter Cincotti or Tony Bennett
to view your guests. If you don’t have
softly for some sophisticated ambiance.
a chandelier, no worries. Mood lighting can
22 easily be accomplished by other forms

of candlelight.
 TABLE SETTINGS
PLATING Add formality and color to the table by using
DÉCOR Keep it feminine and sophisticated. Combine soft
elements of royal and ice blue throughout. For this gathering,
antique textures from a woven overlay over a pale blue linen
antique hand-painted china was complemented by clear and
cloth. To juxtapose modern design with old world elegance,
royal blue crystal glassware for each setting. Antique silver
create a box design of votive candles surrounding the
details, like salt and pepper shakers, also provide a sense of
centerpiece of various types of hydrangea, all within a cut crystal
feminine sophistication to the table.
bowl vase. Use the leaves of the hydrangea to create a clean

border around the perimeter of the votives – adding a stylish

border and natural color. This is a table design that works well

whether outdoors, like in our gazebo setting, or indoors in your

own dining room.

SPECIAL TOUCHES To keep modern designs from looking

cold, add soft textures of floral and/or greenery. This will soften

the look while keeping the design clean. Also, when decorating

your table with hydrant flowers such as hydrangea, be sure to mist

the flowers with water in addition to filling the vase with water.

This will help prolong the life of the floral.

When I think of an Italian dinner and

Marisa Tomei, I think of Rome and

a little old world

combining

with modern design to create an

inviting dinner for family and friends.

— David Tutera
23
 appetizer
Autumn Vegetables with Goat
Cheese and Pumpkinseed Oil
Insalata di Verdura del Autunno con Caprino
ed Olio di Semi di Zucca
4 servings | prep time 20 min | cook time 17 min

DIRECTIONS
Preheat the oven to 475° F.

Place the butternut cubes and chopped sage on a cookie sheet;

drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and roast until light golden
brown, 8 to 10 minutes. Set aside in a large salad bowl to cool.

Place the Jerusalem artichokes on the same cookie sheet and

toss with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil. Roast in the oven for 6 to
7 minutes. Remove and set aside with the squash.

Place the parsnips on the cookie sheet and toss with the cumin INGREDIENTS
and 1 more tablespoon of olive oil. Roast for 6 to 7 minutes, and
• ½ pound butternut squash, • ½ celery root, peeled and
then set aside with the other vegetables.
peeled and cut into cut into julienne pieces
Bring 6 cups of water to boil and set up an ice bath near the ½-inch cubes • ¼ pound mizuna, watercress,
stove. Plunge the leeks into the boiling water and cook until
• 4 fresh sage leaves, or frisee
tender, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove the leeks from the boiling water
finely chopped • 2 tablespoons sherry vinegar
and submerge them in the ice bath until cool. Remove the leeks
from the ice bath, pat dry with paper towels, and set aside. • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil • Kosher salt, to taste
• ¼ cup Jerusalem artichokes, • Freshly ground black pepper,
Add the leeks, celery root and mizuna to the salad bowl with the
roasted vegetables. Add the remaining olive oil, sherry vinegar, scrubbed and sliced into to taste
salt and pepper and toss gently to coat well. Divide the mixture ¹/8-inch disks (optional) • 4 1-inch baguette slices,
evenly among four chilled dinner plates, mounding it like • 2 parsnips, scrubbed and toasted for 2 minutes in
a haystack. Generously spread fresh goat cheese on each sliced into ¼-inch disks 400° F oven
baguette slice and place on top of each “haystack.” Drizzle the • 1 teaspoon ground cumin • ¼ pound fresh goat cheese
pumpkinseed oil around each mound and serve immediately.
• 1 leek, white part only, cut • 2 tablespoons pumpkinseed
into 3-inch julienne pieces oil (available at specialty
stores)

Main Dish: Farfalle with Pancetta,

Rucola and Truffle Paste

24
 Main dish
Farfalle with Pancetta, Rucola
and Truffle Paste
Farfalle con Pancetta, Rucola e Tartufo Bianco
4 servings | prep time 10 min | cook time 20 min

DIRECTIONS
Bring 6 quarts water to boil and add salt to taste. What could be easier? Boiling the pasta and then pouring
Meanwhile in a 10 to 12-inch sauté pan, heat the olive oil over the truffle paste....a subtle, flavorful mouthful. With no work.
low heat. Add the guanciale and cook slowly until the guanciale My kind of dish. It’s unexpected, and tastes impressive
has rendered its fat and is crisp and golden brown, about 10
minutes. Add the onion and garlic and cook gently until golden
if you have to throw something together but so easy!
brown, about 5 minutes longer. Remove from the heat.

Cook the Barilla Farfalle in the boiling water for 1 minute less INGREDIENTS
than the package instructions indicate; drain reserving 4
tablespoons cooking water. Add the pasta to the pan with the • 2 tablespoons extra virgin • 2 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
reserved cooking water. Add the truffle paste, guanciale and the olive oil • 1 pound Barilla Farfalle
grated cheese; mix well and toss over high heat for one minute. • 8 ounces guanciale (may • 2 tablespoons truffle paste
Add the arugula and toss for about 30 more seconds, until just substitute bacon or • ½ cup freshly grated
wilted. Divide among four warmed pasta bowls and serve with pancetta), diced Pecorino-Romano, plus extra
additional cheese on the side. • 1 small red onion, cut for serving
lengthwise in half and then • 1 bunch arugula, chopped
into ¼-inch thick half-moons
TIP: Add fresh truffle slices to each bowl, then finish
with truffle paste and additional grated cheese.
d e s s e rt
Lemon Tart
Crostata di Limone
8-10 servings | prep time 20 min | cook time 70 min

DIRECTIONS
To make the pastry, toss together the flour, almonds and sugar
in a medium bowl. Cut in the butter until the mixture is the
consistency of fine bread crumbs. Add the egg and salt and mix
well, kneading gently. Form the pastry into a disk, wrap in plastic
wrap and refrigerate while the filling is being made.

Preheat the oven to 450° F. Butter a 10-inch fluted tart pan.

Grate the zest from 2 of the lemons. Squeeze the juice from all
3 lemons. In a separate large bowl, beat the egg yolks and sugar
with an electric mixer until very thick and pale. Beat in the lemon
zest and juice. Transfer the mixture to the top of a double boiler
and set over barely simmering water. Cook, stirring constantly,
until the mixture becomes thick, 15 to 20 minutes. Remove from
INGREDIENTS the heat and set aside to cool slightly.
Pastry Filling Roll out the dough between two sheets of waxed paper into an
• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour • 4 large eggs, separated 11-inch circle. Fit into the tart pan and trim the excess dough. Prick
• ½ cup ground toasted the bottom of the dough all over with a fork, line with foil and fill
• 3 lemons
with dried beans, rice or pie weights to keep the bottom from
almonds • ¾ cup sugar puffing. Place in the oven and bake 10 minutes, then remove the
• ½ cup sugar foil and beans. Bake an additional 5 minutes or until pale golden.
• 8 tablespoons (1 stick)
Meanwhile, in a large bowl, beat the egg whites until very stiff
unsalted butter
and fold them into the lemon mixture.
• 1 large egg
25
• Pinch salt Remove the tart shell from the oven and reduce the temperature
to 325° F. Spread the lemon filling over the pie shell. Bake for 10
to 15 minutes or until the filling is thoroughly set.
Cool completely on a rack.
 inspired by Babbo Restaurant
babbo created by chef Mario Batali
Steamed Cockles | Fettuccine with pumpkin and bread crumbs | Saffron Panna Cotta

ambiance
THEME Babbo opened in New York City in 1998 in an effort LIGHTING Low and amber-hued lighting complements the

to emulate the best of great Italian hospitality and quality at dark woods in the cozy and intimate décor. To recreate this

the table and in the glass. The philosophy is as easy as it is setting, dim your overhead lighting and line the room with

straightforward – use the best local ingredients as simply as votive candles.

possible and serve them with flourish and joy.

SOUND At a typical Babbo night, songs from Mario’s playlist

float through the restaurant and grow louder as the evening

progresses. Go to www.mariobatali.com to find Mario’s favorite

songs or play your personal favorites from your I-Pod.

26
 TABLE SETTING s
PLATING Keep it simple with clean white plates, white linen
DÉCOR Upon entering Babbo, guests are greeted with
napkins and tablecloths. Include two forks, a knife and a water
a bar stocked with Italian wines and shelves filled with Mario’s
glass with each setting. Center the napkin and place the forks
cookbooks. In the heart of the dining room is a center table
to the left with the knife at the right. This allows guests to have
with Italian wines, condiments and a seasonal plant to add
space for the meal. The water glass is placed at the top right
warmth and intimacy. Recreate this center table with appetizers
corner of the napkin.
surrounded by your own collection of cookbooks, wines and

fresh greenery.

PARTY TIP Greet your guests upon arrival with a glass of

wine or a Bellini and incorporate interesting trivia about Italy

throughout the room to fully immerse guests in the atmosphere.

love and joy and music

It should be

and art and dance and being

together that drives us to cook, to eat,
and to share.
— Mario Batali
27
 appetizer
Steamed Cockles in a Habañero
Chive Broth
Vongole al Vapore con Peperoncino di Jamaica
e Hierba Cippollina
4 servings | prep time 35 min | cook time 45 min

DIRECTIONS
In a large skillet with a lid, heat the olive oil over high heat
until almost smoking. Add the onion and garlic and cook for 5
minutes, or until soft and lightly browned. Add the chile, half of
the chives, the cockles, wine, and tomato sauce and bring to
a boil. Cover and cook until all the cockles steam open, about 5
minutes. Discard any cockles that do not open.

Season the broth with salt and pepper. Divide the cockles and
broth evenly among four warmed bowls, top with the remaining
chives and serve with bread. INGREDIENTS

• ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

• ½ red onion, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1 habañero chile, finely chopped
• 1 bunch of chives, cut into 1-inch lengths
• 2 pounds New Zealand cockles, scrubbed
(may substitute littleneck clams)
• 2 cups dry white wine
• ½ cup Basic Tomato Sauce (see recipe on page 8)
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Main Dish: Fettuccine with

Pumpkin and Bread Crumbs

28
 Main dish
Fettuccine with Pumpkin
and Bread Crumbs
Fettuccine con Zucca e Pangrattato
4 servings | prep time 15 min | cook time 16 min

DIRECTIONS After a summer of slicing vegetables and serving them

Bring 6 quarts water to boil and add salt to taste. with salt and good oil, the first pasta with sweet and
In a 12 to 14-inch sauté pan, heat 2 tablespoons of the olive oil complex winter squash is always a welcome reminder
over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic and anchovies. Cook of the intense flavor I get when I cook something slowly
over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onion and garlic until it caramelizes. This dish is also good with a drop
are softened and the anchovies have begun to break up. Turn the
heat up to high and add the squash cubes. Cook over high heat or two of real balsamic vinegar over the top at the end.
for 5 minutes or until the cubes are tender and browned at the
edges. Season with the salt and pepper and remove from
INGREDIENTS
the heat.
• 4 tablespoons extra virgin • F reshly ground black
Cook the Barilla Fettuccine in the boiling water for 1 minute less olive oil pepper, to taste
than according to the package directions. While the pasta is
• 1 red onion, finely chopped • 1 pound Barilla Fettuccine
cooking, warm the squash mixture. Drain the pasta and add it to
• 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced • ¼ cup flat-leaf parsley,
the pan with the squash. Add the parsley and remaining 2
• 6 salt-packed anchovy finely chopped
tablespoons of olive oil and toss over high heat for 1 minute.
Divide the pasta and squash evenly among four warmed pasta fillets, soaked in milk for 20 • ½ cup fresh bread crumbs,
bowls, top with bread crumbs and serve immediately. minutes, rinsed and drained toasted
• 1 pound butternut squash,
peeled, seeded and cut into
½-inch cubes

d e s s e rt
Saffron Panna Cotta
Panna Cotta con Zafferano
8-12 servings | prep time 6 min | cook time 5 min
resting time 2 hrs. 10 min

DIRECTIONS
In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, sugar, lemon or
orange zest, and saffron threads. Bring the mixture to a boil,
stirring gently, and then remove from the heat. Let the mixture
rest for 10 minutes to develop the flavor and the color.

Stir the powered gelatin into the cream mixture until it dissolves.
Strain the mixture through a fine-meshed sieve and then stir in
the milk.

Pour the mixture into chilled dessert cups or wine glasses.

If desired, the panna cotta may be unmolded by running the tip
INGREDIENTS
of a knife around the edges of the cup, dipping the cup quickly
• 3 ¹/³ cups heavy cream into hot water, and gently shaking the custard onto a plate.
• ¾ cup sugar Serve with fresh fruit.
• Zest of 1 lemon or 1 orange
• ¾ teaspoon saffron threads
• 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon powdered gelatin
• 1 cup milk

29
 t h e s t o ry o f b a r i l l a

A SHOP AND A DREAM semolina. If no specks remained after he brushed it off, the flour
When he opened a modest pasta shop in Parma, Italy, in 1877, was dry enough and finely ground enough to use in Barilla pasta.
Pietro Barilla had a dream: to supply his neighborhood with the
This strong dedication to quality stems from the belief that food
freshest, most delicious food to be shared with loved ones at
is not purely functional, but serves to nourish our soul and to
home. Now, 130 years later, his handiwork has become the
enhance our way of life. Pasta itself is more than just an ingredient,
best-selling premium pasta in Italy and around the world.
it is the central thread that binds a culture and families. These are
Pietro opened his small shop on Via Vittorio Emanuele, a busy the values Pietro embedded in his company. Today, Guido, Luca
shopping street in the northern Italian city of Parma, located and Paolo Barilla are the fourth generation of the Barilla family
in Emilia-Romagna, a region renowned for its cuisine and rich to carry on Pietro’s dedication to tradition and excellence.
agricultural heritage. Pietro and his son, Riccardo, worked side
Barilla is now the world leader in pasta production, manufacturing
by side making fresh bread and pasta by hand. Their signature
over 4,000 tons of pasta daily in over 150 shapes and sizes at 26
sunshine-yellow, horse-drawn carts would travel through the early
state-of-the-art facilities around the
morning streets of Parma, laden with fresh Barilla products. By the
globe. Despite its global scope and
turn of the century, father and son purchased a warehouse,
international popularity, Barilla has
which today still stands on the same street – now renamed
not changed the philosophy that
Viale Barilla – in Parma.
has guided it for four generations –
QUALITY AND FAMILY it remains dedicated to developing,
From the beginning, product quality was paramount for Barilla, creating and sharing delicious,
a factor dependent on the superior quality of the durum wheat wholesome products with the
flour, or semolina, used to make the pasta. Legend has it that “global neighborhood.”

30 Riccardo Barilla would dust the sleeves of his black suit with the
For more authentic Italian recipes and entertaining ideas, visit us at www.barillaus.com.