sharing the art of pasta

Two years ago, when Covid was finally starting to retreat around the world, I was in Florence, Italy. It was my semester abroad, and my first time in Europe. I know everyone says it, but (once again) if you have not been to Europe...go. Maybe not now, but start saving, because your perspective needs it! The thought of life's purpose in Europe is so eye-opening compared to the American perspective of live to work. In Italy, life is about the experiences you undergo to boost your acquaintance with art, love, and food! I will admit, it was absolutely dreamy to be a gourmand in the country of Italy. One of my favorite areas in Florence boasted of walk-up cafes and then a walk down a cobblestone street to my favorite side street gelato shop - it was out of a movie! But for me, the cooking classes were my favorite experience.

Getting to learn and then perform the ancient art of pasta-making, and I mean actually hundreds of years old, was so incredibly satisfying.

My goal after being in the City of Renaissance Art and Architecture was to create homemade ravioli for my family. Alas, a confession. It has taken me two years to do it which I sorely regret! But I am glad that the flood of lessons and very particular practices came back to me after the long absence of Italian music in my head.

Last night, I had the opportunity to create the art of making pasta for my twin sister, who had been studying in Peru while I strolled past the violin and wooden puppet show acts on the streets of Italy. The evening started with a sip of wine and making a hill of semolina flour. The oddly satisfying ditch you make by swirling a cup in the middle of the flour to make the perfect basket for my 3 eggs (1egg per 100g of flour). Then comes the kneading, endless kneading. I almost lost track of time, but then I had a golden soft sphere that was no longer sticky. Next was the simplest filling I have done: Ricotta, Parmesan, and Olive Oil-steamed Spinach. After structuring the ravioli and boiling it, they rested in a vodka sauce my sister made and were then plated.

Cooking for others is such a lovely thing to share. I finally got the chance to display my passion (for Italy), my memories (of my semester abroad), sweat (not really but kneading took effort), time, and love for my family through food. I challenge you to cook a simple, yet time-consuming meal, when you have the time, for someone special in your life. It is so relaxing, and you get a reward at the end; the satisfaction of your meal along with the smile in the eyes of you and others!