I’m one of those people that tends to read the cookbook for enjoyment more than to actually create a meal. I don’t know about you but I have oodles of cookbooks, that I hardly ever open. I’m hoping that my newest acquisition, Vegetables from an Italian Garden will be a more hands-on cookbook for me.

It’s kind of strange but I don’t see an author for the book. It seems to be sort of a publisher group effort. But what’s neat about it is that it’s recipes are arranged by season. They stress the value of using local, seasonal vegetables that don’t need to be shipped in from Chile. I’m sure the quality is better and it’s better for the environment.

In case you can’t figure it out, by what you see at your local farmers market, there’s a growth chart by season showing you what’s available typically.

Another nice feature is that the recipes are arranged by season. And the pictures are quite beautiful too.

There are even tips for growing your own seasonal vegetables, and what to look for when you’re purchasing them at the market.

This white beans and asparagus salad looks pretty yummy. But then anything with asparagus sounds yummy to me!

You’ll be the first to know, if I actually break out the cutting board anytime soon! I’ll keep you posted.

Speaking of cutting boards, I have a new favorite antique shop (next to Veranda of course! ) that I found downtown yesterday called Le Jardin. It’s on 21st St. just south of Broadway. Linda, the owner, is delightful! There were thousands of things I could have bought, but I left with just this cutting board.

It’s probably about as close as I’ll ever get, to having Carrera marble countertops. I think it’s large enough to make my first batch of homemade pasta doe! Tomorrow, maybe??

Until next time, happy cooking!

Cheers!,

Barbara