Archive for August, 2010

Summer may be coming to an end but don’t forget about those Labor Day celebrations giving you one more chance for an outdoor party or gathering.

And just in case you’re looking for something delicious to bring along, try making the simple Italian Pasta Salad recipe below.  The mixture of fresh tomatoes and basil, the pecorino cheese, and the smoked proscuitto brings together an variety of tastes and textures without being overcomplicating the flavors. 

Italian Pasta Salad

Ingredients

Pecorino Romano DOP

Speck Alto Adige IGP

Coros Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Farfalle, Pasta Rummo

Tomatoes

Fresh Basil

Directions

Boil water and cook the Farfalle pasta ‘al dente’ (firm but not hard).

As the pasta cooks, cut the Pecorino Romano and Speck into chunks to your preference. We recommend cutting into ¼ of an inch pieces.

Next dice the tomatoes (if using cherry tomatoes, just halve them) and break apart the basil.

Once the pasta is cooked, drizzle the Coros Extra Virgin Olive Oil on top and stir until all pasta is covered.

Add in the Pecorino, Speck, tomatoes and basil. Mix and set aside to cool.

Don’t forget to enjoy this special Italian dish with friends and family on your last summer weekend!

Summer is the season for rejuvenation, relaxation and resting as well as the time to reunite with friends and family. The beauty of summer is within the atmosphere of the warm weather, creating a worry free environment for not only entertaining but enjoying the company of others. 

Take advantage of the fresh produce and products only available in the summer months. Juicy tomatoes, sweet peaches and succulent figs can be paired with some fine Italian summer cheeses such as Provolone Dolce, Ricotta Dura or Pecorino Foglie di Noce. Maybe throw in a loaf of fresh baked bread and some peppery extra virgin olive oil such as the Masseria Santa Venia from Puglia which has a unique nutty flavor. For an extra treat, some thinly sliced Prosciutto di Parma makes any meal even more special. 

Enjoy your fresh Italian products outdoors this summer

There’s no need to slave over a hot stove to prepare a meal when simple pleasures like these can be served with little preparation and enjoyed over pleasant conversation. Enjoy your food outdoors or even on a picnic, taking in the sights and sounds of the summer as well as savoring the tastes of simple yet delicious dishes.