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Benvenuto! Welcome to Mangia Magna

I’m called Mom, Nonna, BisNonna but my husband, Charlie, calls me Anita. I’m a fiercely proud first generation American and equally proud of my Italian heritage. I treasure the recipes and traditions passed down to me through many generations…

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MEMORIAL DAYA time for reflection

      MEMORIAL DAY Of the two official United States holidays recognizing the commitment of members of America’s military services, Memorial Day honors those who lost their lives while defending their country. So as you go about your day…

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VERY EASY CHOCOLATE CAKE FOR A CROWD

Whenever the grandchildren want to drop in, or when we havefamily dinners or unexpected company, this is quick and delicious.   For the Cake: 2 cups all-purpose flour 2 cups sugar 2 sticks butter 1 cup water 5 Tablespoons…

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Special Recipes and a cake for Claudia

SALMON PICCATA Piccata is an Italian word used in reference to a way of preparing food. It translates into a method of slicing or sautéing in a sauce that contains lemons and butter together with  a variety of spices.…

Italia Sauce

How to make a Homemade Allioli-

A homemade allioli serves a lot of purpose! This sauce is simply the emulsion of garlic, oil and salt that is perfect to dress your food.   INGREDIENTS: 1 cup good quality or extra virgin olive oil 12 garlic…

Featured Italia Sauce Italian Sauce

SICILIAN PESTO –

Sicily has its own special version of Pesto. In this version you will find almonds vs pine nuts or walnuts. Also, there is no basil. Instead, you will enjoy mint, chili pepper and fresh tomatoes. The biggest surprise is…

Italian Dessert

SHRIMP RICOTTA MOUSSE-

  Sformato di Ricotta Con Gamberi Sformato is essentially a flan! 2 ZUCCHINI – coarsely chopped 2 SHALLOTS – coarsely chopped 3 TBS EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL – divided 1 ½ CUPS WHOLE MILK RICOTTA – drained 3 EGG…

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BRAISED PORK CHOPS

Very popular in Italy is roast pork braised in milk and smothered with vegetables. This simpler version uses pork chops with bacon and cabbage.   2-3 TBS EXTRA VERGIN OLIVE OIL FRESHLY GROUND BLACK PEPPER – to taste 4…