When going over your recipes for a quick change of pace, keep in mind that fresh foods and spices can make all the difference. Here are some stopes to follow:

Act I - Research the required ingredients to make sure you are using natural products.

• Use good olive oil, not some dispensed out of a large jug or olive oil from the last olive press which is called pomace -- bad stuff.
• Buy grating cheese in a large chunk and grate as needed to prevent loss in flavor.
• Choose fresh garlic — not lazy garlic that will deliver a bitter flavor.
• Use fresh herbs to receive a true flavor. Most herbs have a short shelf life before the flavor begins to dissipate.
• Pick fresh tomatoes when available or good quality canned tomatoes — personal preference or San Marzano packed in Italy.

Act II – When a recipe calls for a particular ingredient, do not substitute.

Act III – The use of fresh ingredients will deliver a recipe with clean layering of flavors and no after taste.

Final Act – Your family and friends will be impressed with your cooking skills.

By Rita Venturino

Rita offers many Italian menus at her cooking school  at www.ritaventurino.com. She loves visitors to her Italian kitchen!