For me, there is nothing more important than gathering around the table. This Balsamic Chicken Stir Fry is a favorite at our table.. I connect with my friend, Mimi Thorisson, a cookbook author living in Torino, who shares her take on the traditional Frico. To finish a simple sweet Grape & Ricotta Pizza. I will always hold onto the memories of my family meals with joy & I want that for you too.

I live by the seasons. It's just what feels natural to me. Flavoring risotto is all about capturing the tastes & aromas of the season and Risotto with Asparagus & Favas sings Spring! Roasted Cranberries & Pears over Ice Cream is a versatile favorite. On Sundays, my grandma baked a tart like this Leek and Ricotta Tart, starring the vegetables from the garden. Trust me, let the seasons guide you.

It's important to slow down and give cooking the time it deserves. Mussel Bruschetta always makes me think fondly of my long lunches in Fiumicino. Remember that collection of frozen food scraps, water, and time can turn into a rich stock. The fun of this Spicy Lobster Linguine is seeing everyone slowly work through it with their hands... it's a memory maker! Let the kitchen be your place of peace.

I remind you that cooking can be cost effective with a bit of creativity. And share a cost-cutting complete meal, with my Vegetable Soup with Poached Eggs. Then my friend, Mark Randall, a honey-maker, calls to discuss a traditional Italian cookie that he stretches into two desserts by adding them to his honey ice cream. And a Poached Chicken Giardiniera Salad easily makes two meals out of one.

Nothing compares to the anticipation of summer. Zucchini Soup with Eggs and Cheese is my version of stracciatella, which I served to my grandkids when they were little. I reminisce about Grandma whenever I shell fava beans myself, waiting for the crowd to come and enjoy this dish, Fava Beans with Mint. Shrimp and Tomato Risotto sings of summer, but it could be made any time of year.

This show is all about making your life easier. I remind you to think of recipes as roadmaps, that you can - and should - personalize. I share a Winter Minestrone that can use any kind of hearty green and a Matalota-Style Mixed Fish Stew that can change according to market availability. So go ahead and play with what you have to create something just for you!

This show is all about making your life easier. I remind you to think of recipes as roadmaps, that you can - and should - personalize. I share a Winter Minestrone that can use any kind of hearty green and a Matalota-Style Mixed Fish Stew that can change according to market availability. So go ahead and play with what you have to create something just for you!