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THE HUGGINS FAMILY

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Italian-American

  • Italian Salad Dressing

    Italian Salad Dressing

    This Italian-American salad dressing has been a Huggins family favorite for years—the kind you want to keep in the fridge for weeknight salads, Sunday dinners, and drizzling over a big antipasto platter. It balances tangy red wine vinegar, a touch of sweetness, and nutty Romano cheese, with just enough warmth from cayenne to keep things interesting. A bit of xanthan gum helps it stay emulsified and pourable, so it feels as smooth and reliable as your favorite pizzeria house dressing.

    Ingredients

    • ½ cup red wine vinegar
    • ⅓ cup water
    • ¼ cup vegetable oil
    • 2 tbsp light olive oil
    • ¼ cup sugar
    • ½ tbsp table salt
    • ½ tbsp lemon juice
    • ½ tsp garlic powder
    • ¼ tsp xanthan gum
    • ¼ tsp dried parsley flakes
    • ⅛ tsp dried oregano
    • ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper
    • ⅛ tsp MSG (optional)
    • 1½ oz Romano cheese, finely grated

    Directions

    Blend the Base:

    Add the red wine vinegar, water, vegetable oil, light olive oil, sugar, table salt, lemon juice, garlic powder, xanthan gum, dried parsley, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, and MSG (if using) to a blender.

    Blend on low speed for about 10–15 seconds, just until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture looks slightly thickened and evenly emulsified. Avoid over-blending so the dressing does not become too thick.

    Add the Cheese & Chill:

    Transfer the dressing to a bottle or jar. Add the finely grated Romano cheese, secure the lid, and shake until the cheese is evenly dispersed.

    Refrigerate at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the herbs to hydrate. Shake well before serving.

    Notes

    Preparation

    • Blend only until the dressing looks slightly thickened and emulsified; over-blending can make the xanthan gum thicken the dressing more than desired.
    • Adding the Romano cheese after blending keeps the texture pleasantly speckled and helps prevent the dressing from becoming gritty.
    • For best flavor, let the dressing rest in the refrigerator overnight so the herbs fully hydrate and the acidity rounds out.
    • If the dressing thickens in the refrigerator, let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes and shake well before serving.
    • MSG is optional but enhances the savory notes from the Romano cheese and makes the dressing taste a bit more “restaurant-style.”

    Serving Suggestions

    • Use on classic green salads with romaine or iceberg, tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and red onion.
    • Drizzle over chopped salads, Italian-style subs, or an antipasto platter with cured meats, cheeses, and marinated vegetables.
    • For a simple marinade for chicken or vegetables, reduce the sugar to 2–3 tbsp per batch of dressing, then marinate for 30–60 minutes before cooking. The reduced sugar helps minimize burning on the grill or in a hot pan.

    Variations

    • Herb-Forward Italian Dressing: Increase dried parsley to ½ tsp and dried oregano to ½ tsp. Add ½ tsp dried basil for a more pronounced Italian herb profile. Allow to sit overnight so the herbs fully hydrate.
    • Optional Add-Ins: Stir in 1–2 tsp very finely minced red bell pepper for a classic Italian-American pizzeria vibe, ½–1 tsp Dijon mustard for a touch of tang and extra emulsification, or a small pinch of celery seed for an old-school “house dressing” flavor.
    • Fresh Garlic Option (Same-Day Use): If you plan to use the dressing the same day, you may substitute the garlic powder with ½ tsp very finely minced fresh garlic. For food safety and flavor, use within 24 hours and keep refrigerated.
    • Roasted Garlic Variation: For a sweeter, mellow garlic note, replace the garlic powder with 1 tsp mashed roasted garlic. This variation keeps well for several days in the refrigerator and adds a deeper, rounder garlic flavor.

    Make-Ahead & Storage

    • Store the dressing in an airtight bottle or jar in the refrigerator for up to 1 week when made with garlic powder.
    • If using fresh garlic, use within 24 hours for best flavor and food safety.
    • The cheese and xanthan gum will cause the dressing to thicken slightly over time; let it warm at room temperature for a few minutes and shake well before serving.
    • Always use a clean spoon or pour directly from the bottle to help maximize shelf life.
  • Italian-American Meatball Subs

    Italian-American Meatball Subs

    Italian-American meatball subs built the classic way: tender, juicy roasted meatballs finished in a deeply savory red sauce, tucked into toasted rolls, and blanketed with melted provolone — comfort-food perfection with just enough structure to hold together.

    Ingredients

    Meatballs

    • 6 oz bread crumbs
    • 1½ cups buttermilk
    • 1 pkg powdered gelatin (about ½ tbsp), bloomed in ¼ cup cold water
    • 3 eggs, slightly beaten
    • 1+ tbsp garlic, minced
    • ⅓ cup (packed) fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped
    • ½ tbsp table salt
    • ½ tsp black pepper
    • 3 oz Parmesan cheese, grated
    • 6 oz prosciutto, finely chopped
    • 2 lbs ground beef
    • 1 lb ground pork

    Sauce

    • 2 tbsp olive oil
    • 1 cup (8 oz) onion, chopped
    • 5 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
    • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
    • 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
    • 1½ cups chicken broth
    • ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
    • 1 tbsp fish sauce
    • 2 tsp dried basil
    • 2 tsp dried parsley
    • 1 tsp dried oregano
    • ½ tsp ground fennel
    • ¼ tsp dried thyme leaves
    • 2 whole cloves, crushed
    • 2 bay leaves
    • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
    • 1 tsp table salt

    For Serving

    • 10–12 Italian sub rolls or hoagie rolls
    • 10–12 oz provolone, sliced (about 1 oz per sub)
    • Optional: garlic oil or olive oil, for brushing rolls
    • Optional: dried oregano, for finishing the rolls
    • Optional: grated Parmesan, for finishing
    • Optional: chopped parsley and/or a light basil chiffonade, for finishing

    Directions

    Prepare the Oven and Pans

    Preheat oven to 450ºF with racks positioned mid-top and mid-bottom.

    Line 2 half sheet pans with foil. Set wire racks in the pans and spray racks with cooking spray.

    Make the Meatballs

    Combine bread crumbs and buttermilk. Soak 10 minutes, then mash into a paste.

    Bloom gelatin in ¼ cup cold water for 8–10 minutes.

    In a mixing bowl, combine the bread crumb mixture and bloomed gelatin. Mix in eggs, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, Parmesan, and prosciutto until well combined.

    Place ground beef and pork in a large bowl. Pour the egg/bread crumb mixture over the meat and mix gently by hand until thoroughly combined.

    Portion and form into 3-oz meatballs (about 29–30 meatballs). If needed, refrigerate briefly to firm.

    Arrange meatballs on prepared racks and bake about 30 minutes, rotating trays and rack positions after 20 minutes.

    Make the Sauce

    In a Dutch oven over medium heat, heat olive oil until shimmering. Add onion and garlic and sauté until onion is translucent and tender.

    Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken broth, wine (optional), and fish sauce. Add remaining herbs, spices, and seasonings.

    Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and simmer covered for 15 minutes.

    Braise the Meatballs in the Sauce

    After removing the cooked meatballs from the oven, lower oven temperature to 300ºF.

    Add meatballs to the sauce. Cover and place in the oven for 1 hour.

    Remove and discard bay leaves before serving.

    Assemble and Bake the Subs

    Heat oven to 425ºF. Split rolls lengthwise, leaving a hinge.

    Optional: brush cut sides lightly with garlic oil or olive oil. Toast rolls cut-side up on a sheet pan for 3–5 minutes, just until lightly crisp. If desired, finish with a very light dusting of dried oregano.

    Place a slice of provolone in each roll and return to the oven for 1–2 minutes to melt.

    Add 2–3 meatballs per sub. For easier bites and cleaner eating, slice meatballs in half before loading.

    Spoon sauce over the meatballs (go light under the meatballs to avoid soggy bread). Top with another small piece of provolone if desired.

    Bake 5–8 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling at the edges.

    Notes

    Preparation

    • Fish sauce can be replaced with 4–6 anchovy filets, finely minced.
    • For meatball subs, sauce texture matters. If the sauce is still runny after braising, remove the meatballs and simmer the sauce uncovered until it reaches your desired thickness, then return the meatballs to the pot to rewarm.
    • Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust if needed. A splash (1–2 tsp) of red wine vinegar or a small squeeze of lemon can help brighten and balance the richness.
    • For extra color on the cheese, finish the assembled subs under the broiler for 30–90 seconds, watching closely.

    Serving Suggestions

    • Serve with extra warm sauce on the side for dipping rather than over-saucing the roll.
    • Classic sub-shop add-ons include hot cherry pepper relish, pickled pepperoncini, or sautéed onions and green peppers.
    • Optional finish: garnish with a light basil chiffonade and/or a sprinkle of chopped parsley for extra brightness.

    Variations

    • Parmesan can be swapped for a mixture of Parmesan and Romano cheeses.
    • Swap provolone for mozzarella if you want a milder, stretchier melt.

    Make-Ahead & Storage

    • Meatballs and sauce taste even better the next day and reheat beautifully.
    • To reheat a chilled batch, add ¾ cup water to the pot and reheat covered at 325ºF until hot.
    • For best texture, store rolls separately and assemble subs just before baking.
  • Melon Gelato

    Melon Gelato

    This melon gelato highlights the clean, refreshing flavor of cantaloupe with a light hand. Fresh melon purée is balanced with milk rather than heavy cream, a modest sweetness, and a touch of citrus to keep the profile bright and restrained. The base is blended smooth and gently stabilized for a soft, scoopable texture that lets the natural aroma of cantaloupe come through without becoming overpowering.

    Ingredients

      Melon Base:

    • 2½ cups cantaloupe purée (from ~550–600 g cantaloupe; ripe but not heavily perfumed)
    • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
    • pinch table salt

      • Dairy Base:

    • 1 cup whole milk
    • 2 tbsp heavy cream
    • 7 tbsp granulated sugar
    • 2 tbsp glucose syrup or light corn syrup

      • Stabilizer & Finish:

    • ⅛ tsp xanthan gum
    • ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional; omit for the cleanest melon profile)

    Directions

    Prepare the Melon

    Dice the cantaloupe and purée until completely smooth. Taste carefully—the flavor should be gently sweet and aromatic, not aggressively perfumed.

    Stir in the lemon juice and salt. Cover and refrigerate until well chilled.

    Make the Dairy Base

    In a small saucepan, combine the milk, cream, granulated sugar, corn syrup, and salt. Heat gently over medium heat until steaming and fully dissolved.

    Remove from heat and let cool 10–15 minutes.

    Combine & Stabilize

    In a blender, combine the cooled dairy base, chilled cantaloupe purée, and vanilla (if using).

    Sprinkle the xanthan gum evenly over the surface and immediately blend on high for 30–45 seconds until fully emulsified and slightly thickened.

    Chill the Base

    Transfer the mixture to a covered container and refrigerate until very cold, at least 4 hours or overnight.

    Churn & Freeze

    Churn the chilled base in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s instructions until thick, smooth, and softly set.

    Transfer to a freezer-safe container, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface, cover, and freeze 1–2 hours to firm before serving.

    Notes

    Preparation

    • Choose cantaloupe that is sweet but not intensely fragrant; overly ripe melon can dominate the finished gelato.
    • Keeping the dairy light helps preserve a clean melon finish while improving texture.

    Serving Suggestions

    • Allow the gelato to soften 5 minutes before scooping for best texture.
    • Serve on its own or with fresh berries for contrast.

    Variations

    • Omit the vanilla for an ultra-clean melon profile.
    • Increase lemon juice to 1½ tbsp for a brighter, more sorbet-like finish.

    Make-Ahead & Storage

    • Best within 3–4 days; melon aroma fades with longer storage.
    • If fully firm, temper briefly at room temperature before serving.
  • Grandma’s Lasagna

    Grandma’s Lasagna

    In the 1960s and 70s, most of our family parties included the Berg family—Tom, Evie, and their daughter Donna were always there, and they’ve long felt like part of our family. Grandma’s Lasagna recipe actually came from Donna Berg sometime in the 1970s after she served it at a birthday party and it was such a hit that our family has used this lasagna recipe ever since. Over the years, I’ve made a few careful updates: I added besciamella after living in Delft, The Netherlands, in the home of Bep Lupker—her lasagna included a silky, delicious besciamella that I never forgot. I’ve also refined the meat sauce for deeper flavor and better balance, while keeping the heart of the original recipe intact.

    Ingredients

    Meat Sauce

    • 2 tbsp olive oil
    • 1 cup (8-oz) onion, chopped
    • 5 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 lb ground chuck beef (or ½ lb ground beef, ½ lb Italian sausage)
    • 1 can (28-oz) crushed tomatoes
    • 1 can (15-oz) tomato sauce
    • 1 can (6-oz) tomato paste
    • 1 cup chicken broth
    • ½ cup dry white wine or dry red wine (optional)
    • 2 tsp fish sauce (optional)
    • 2 tsp dried basil
    • 2 tsp dried parsley
    • 1 tsp dried oregano
    • ¾ tsp dried ground fennel
    • ¼ tsp dried thyme leaves
    • 3 whole cloves
    • 2 bay leaves
    • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
    • 1 tsp table salt

    Cheese & Pasta

    • 2 cups ricotta or cottage cheese (or 1 cup of each)
    • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
    • 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
    • 8 oz lasagna noodles, prepared

    Besciamella

    • ¼ cup butter
    • ¼ cup flour
    • 2 cups milk
    • ¼ tsp onion powder
    • ¼ tsp table salt
    • ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
    • small pinch nutmeg

    Directions

    Make the Meat Sauce

    In a Dutch oven over medium heat, heat olive oil until shimmering. Add onion and sauté until translucent and tender. Add garlic and cook for 30–45 seconds, just until fragrant. Add meat and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up as it browns.

    Clear a small space in the pot and add tomato paste directly to the pan. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring, until the paste darkens slightly and smells sweeter. Stir the paste into the meat mixture.

    Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, wine (optional), and fish sauce (optional). Add dried basil, dried parsley, oregano, fennel, thyme, cloves, bay leaves, pepper, and salt.

    Simmer covered on low heat for 30 minutes and uncovered for 15 minutes. Remove bay leaves and whole cloves before assembling. (Sauce is best when made a day more in advance and reheated.)

    Prepare the Cheese

    In a bowl, combine ricotta (and/or cottage cheese) with Parmesan. Reserve mozzarella for layering and topping.

    Assemble

    Place enough meat sauce in the bottom of a lasagna pan to thinly coat. Add ⅓ of the cooked lasagna noodles. Spread ⅓ of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, add a layer of mozzarella slices, then cover with ⅓ of the remaining meat sauce.

    Repeat for two additional layers. Top with remaining mozzarella and a light sprinkle of Parmesan.

    Bake

    Bake covered at 325° for 40 minutes and uncovered for 10 minutes, or until warmed through and cheese is slightly browned. Rest 10–15 minutes before slicing for cleaner layers.

    Make the Besciamella

    Thoroughly heat butter and flour. Whisk in remaining ingredients; cook until thickened.

    Serve

    Slice and serve lasagna topped with besciamella.

    Notes

    Preparation

    • Why cloves? Whole cloves add subtle warmth and sweetness to the sauce and are removed before assembly so their flavor stays in the background.
    • Besciamella tip (optional): For an extra-silky texture, warm the milk separately and whisk it in gradually.
    • Make-ahead sauce: This meat sauce tastes even better after a night in the fridge; rewarm gently before assembling.

    Serving Suggestions

    • Let the lasagna rest 10–15 minutes before cutting for cleaner slices.
    • Serve with a simple green salad and warm bread to round out the meal.

    Variations

    • Wine: Dry white or dry red both work well; omit if preferred.
    • Fish sauce: Optional, but it adds savory depth without tasting “fishy” at this amount.
    • Meat: Using half Italian sausage adds a slightly richer, more seasoned profile.

    Make-Ahead & Storage

    • Make-ahead: Assemble the lasagna, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake as directed, adding 10–15 minutes to the covered bake time if it’s going in cold.
    • Refrigerate: Store leftovers covered for up to 4 days.
    • Freeze: Freeze tightly wrapped portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.

    Original Berg Family Lasagna Recipe (circa 1970s)
    This is the original version of the recipe as it was shared with our family by Donna Berg in the 1970s. It’s simpler than the updated version above, but it’s the foundation everything else grew from.

    Ingredients

    • ⅓ cup onion, chopped
    • 1 clove garlic, minced
    • 2 tbsp olive oil
    • 1 lb ground chuck beef
    • 1 can (8-oz) tomato sauce
    • 1 can (6-oz) tomato paste
    • 1 cup water
    • ½ tsp oregano
    • fresh ground pepper (to taste)
    • 1 tsp table salt
    • ½ tsp basil
    • 1 whole clove, crushed
    • 2 cups ricotta or cottage cheese (or 1 cup of each)
    • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
    • 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
    • 8 oz lasagna noodles, prepared

    Directions

    Sauté onion and garlic in oil until tender; add meat and brown. Add tomato sauce, tomato paste, water, and seasonings and simmer covered for 30 minutes.

    Place ½ of the cooked lasagna noodles in the bottom of a buttered 9×13 pan. Spread ½ of the ricotta (and/or cottage cheese), Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese over lasagna. Cover with ½ of the meat sauce. Repeat layers.

    Bake at 350° for 45 minutes.

  • Italian-American Meat Sauce

    Italian-American Meat Sauce

    This Meat Sauce is a classic Italian-American style simmered sauce built for depth and balance: well-browned meat, layered tomato flavor, dried herbs, and just enough savory backbone to make it craveable without tipping into heaviness. Blooming the tomato paste adds richness and sweetness, while a short covered simmer softens acidity before finishing uncovered to concentrate flavor. It’s a sauce that’s excellent fresh, but even better the next day—exactly what a great red sauce should be.

    Ingredients

    • 2 tbsp olive oil
    • 1 cup (8 oz) onion, chopped
    • 5 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 lb ground chuck beef (or ½ lb ground chuck and ½ lb uncased Italian sausage)
    • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
    • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
    • 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
    • 1 cup chicken broth
    • ¼–½ cup dry white or dry red wine (optional)
    • 1 tbsp fish sauce
    • 2 tsp dried basil
    • 2 tsp dried parsley
    • 1 tsp dried oregano
    • ½ tsp dried ground fennel
    • ¼ tsp dried thyme leaves
    • 2 whole cloves, crushed
    • 2 bay leaves
    • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
    • 1 tsp table salt

    Directions

    Build the Sauce

    In a Dutch oven over medium heat, heat the olive oil until shimmering. Add the onion and sauté until translucent and tender, about 5–7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes more, just until fragrant.

    Add the ground meat and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until well browned and any excess moisture has cooked off.

    Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes, allowing it to bloom and darken slightly to deepen sweetness and round acidity.

    Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, wine (if using), and fish sauce. Add the dried herbs, fennel, thyme, crushed cloves, bay leaves, pepper, and salt. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

    Simmer

    Reduce heat to low and simmer covered for 30 minutes to soften acidity and allow the flavors to meld.

    Uncover and continue simmering for 15 minutes, allowing excess moisture to evaporate and the sauce to thicken. Remove and discard the bay leaves and crushed cloves before serving.

    Finish the Pasta

    Boil pasta as directed until al dente. Drain, reserving some of the pasta cooking water.

    Place enough warmed meat sauce in a serving bowl to lightly coat the pasta. Stir in a small splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce, then add the pasta and toss gently to coat. Serve topped with additional meat sauce and freshly grated Romano and/or Parmesan cheese.

    Notes

    Preparation

    • Anchovy Option: The fish sauce may be replaced with 4–6 anchovy fillets, finely minced. Add them with the garlic so they dissolve into the oil and meat as the sauce cooks.

    Make-Ahead & Storage

    This sauce improves with time and is best when made a day ahead and reheated.

    • Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
    • Freeze for up to 3 months.
    • Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth as needed to loosen the sauce.
  • Spaghetti & Meatballs

    Spaghetti & Meatballs

    This Spaghetti & Meatballs is built the way a great red-sauce Sunday dinner should be: deeply savory, richly tomatoey, and unapologetically comforting. The meatballs are intentionally tender and juicy—thanks to a buttermilk panade and a little gelatin—then roasted for browning before finishing in the sauce so everything tastes like it belongs together. It’s a big-batch, make-ahead-friendly classic that feels special on a weeknight and even better the next day.

    Ingredients

    Meatballs

    • 6 oz bread crumbs
    • 1½ cups buttermilk
    • 1 pkg (+/- ½ tbsp) powdered gelatin, bloomed in ¼ cup water
    • 3 eggs, slightly beaten
    • 1+ tbsp garlic, minced
    • ⅓ cup (packed) fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped
    • ½ tbsp table salt
    • ½ tsp pepper
    • 3 oz Parmesan cheese, grated
    • 6 oz prosciutto, finely chopped
    • 2 lbs ground beef
    • 1 lb ground pork

    Sauce

    • 2 tbsp olive oil
    • 1 cup (8-oz) onion, chopped
    • 5 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 can (28-oz) crushed tomatoes
    • 1 can (15-oz) tomato sauce
    • 1 can (6-oz) tomato paste
    • 1½ cups chicken broth
    • ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
    • 1 tbsp fish sauce
    • 2 tsp dried basil
    • 2 tsp dried parsley
    • 1 tsp dried oregano
    • ½ tsp dried ground fennel
    • ¼ tsp dried thyme leaves
    • 2 whole cloves, crushed
    • 2 bay leaves
    • ½ tsp fresh ground pepper
    • 1 tsp table salt
    • 1–2 lbs dry spaghetti

    Directions

    Prepare the Oven and Pans

    Preheat oven to 450ºF with cooking racks mid-top and mid-bottom of oven.

    Place foil and wire racks in 2 half sheet pans; spray racks with cooking spray.

    Make the Meatballs

    Combine bread crumbs and buttermilk and stir to completely combine. Soak bread crumbs to fully hydrate, about 10 minutes, then mash into a paste.

    Bloom gelatin in ¼ cup cold water for 8–10 minutes.

    Place bread crumb mixture into a mixing bowl. Mix in bloomed gelatin, followed by all remaining ingredients except beef and pork; mix well to combine.

    Place meats in a large mixing bowl; pour egg/bread crumb mixture over meat and mix gently by hand until thoroughly combined.

    Portion and form into individual balls, about 3-oz each (29–30 meatballs). If necessary, refrigerate to firm.

    Place meatballs on the greased racks and bake for about 30 minutes, rotating trays and tray locations after 20 minutes.

    Make the Sauce

    In a Dutch oven over medium heat, heat olive oil until shimmering; add onion and garlic and sauté until onion is translucent and tender.

    Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, chicken broth, wine (optional), and fish sauce; add remaining herbs, spices, and seasonings.

    Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and simmer covered for 15 minutes.

    Braise the Meatballs in the Sauce

    After removing cooked meatballs from oven, lower oven temperature to 300ºF.

    Add meatballs to sauce; cover with lid and place in oven for 1 hour.

    Remove and discard bay leaves before serving.

    Cook the Pasta and Serve

    Prepare spaghetti as directed; drain, retaining some of the pasta water in a separate bowl.

    Add pasta back to the cooking pot along with a small amount of pasta water and about ¼ cup sauce; toss until pasta is coated.

    Serve pasta topped with meatballs, additional sauce, and grated Parmesan.

    Notes

    Preparation

    • Fish sauce can be replaced by 4–6 anchovy filets, finely minced.

    Serving Suggestions

    • Optional finish: garnish bowls with a light chiffonade of fresh basil and/or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for extra brightness.

    Variations

    • Parmesan can be swapped for a mixture of Parmesan and Romano cheeses.

    Make-Ahead & Storage

    • Can be made a day in advance and reheated.
    • Add ¾ cup water over mixture and reheat covered at 325ºF.
  • Gnocchi

    Gnocchi

    Light, pillowy gnocchi made from baked potatoes for the best possible texture. Rooted in northern Italian tradition, this simple dish traveled across the Atlantic with generations of Italian immigrants and found a second home in Argentina. Our family’s version emphasizes gentle handling, minimal flour, and a buttery golden finish—echoing the gnocchi Jane enjoyed while living in the mountains of Argentina, where gracious families gathered around humble tables to share food, laughter, and the quiet joy of good company.

    Ingredients

    • 2 lbs (900 g) russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
    • ¾ tsp table salt
    • 1–1½ cups all-purpose flour (start with 1 cup; add only as needed)
    • 1 large egg, lightly beaten (see variation)

    Directions

    Bake the Potatoes

    Bake whole, unpeeled potatoes at 400°F (200°C) until tender, about 1 hour. Split immediately after baking to allow steam to escape—this prevents sogginess.

    Scoop out the flesh and rice or mash while still warm.

    Prepare the Dough

    Spread the riced potatoes out on a board or tray and allow to cool slightly until just warm to the touch. Sprinkle evenly with salt.

    Add about ¾ of the flour over the potatoes, then drizzle the beaten egg over the top. Using your hands or a bench scraper, gently fold and press the mixture together, adding only enough additional flour to form a soft dough.

    Turn out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead for 15–20 seconds, just until smooth. The dough should feel soft and slightly tacky, but not sticky—avoid overworking.

    Shape the Gnocchi

    Roll dough into ¾-inch ropes. Cut into ¾–1 inch pieces using a bench scraper for cleaner cuts.

    Shape on a fork or gnocchi board if desired. Lightly dust formed gnocchi with semolina or flour to prevent sticking.

    Cook the Gnocchi

    Bring a large pot of salted water (as for pasta) to a boil. Cook gnocchi in 2–3 batches until they float, then cook 30 seconds longer. Remove gently with a strainer and keep warm.

    Notes

    Preparation

    • Russets make the lightest gnocchi; Yukon Golds give a slightly richer, denser texture.
    • Flour should equal roughly 20–30% of potato weight. Less flour yields lighter, more delicate gnocchi.
    • Chill dough for 10–15 minutes before shaping if it feels too soft.
    • Salt cooking water generously—about 1–2 tbsp per gallon.
    • Test one gnocchi before cooking the full batch. If it falls apart, gently knead in 1–2 tbsp more flour.
    • For best texture, avoid kneading more than 15–20 seconds.
    • Remember: once gnocchi float, cook for an additional 30 seconds.

    Serving Suggestions

    • Toss with Browned Butter Sage Sauce and finish with parmesan and a squeeze of lemon.
    • Sauté boiled gnocchi in butter until golden, then toss with a light cream sauce, browned mushrooms, spinach, and spicy Italian sausage.
    • Serve with Pomodoro, Pesto alla Genovese, or Gorgonzola Cream Sauce.

    Variations

    • Use 1 egg for pillowy, restaurant-style gnocchi. Add a second egg for a firmer, rustic dough.
    • Add a pinch of nutmeg and 1–2 tbsp ricotta for a richer dough (add flour as needed).
    • For a classic eggless northern Italian version, omit the egg and increase flour slightly to reach a soft, workable dough.

    Make-Ahead & Storage

    • Shaped gnocchi may be refrigerated on a lightly floured tray for up to 4 hours before cooking.
    • To freeze, arrange uncooked gnocchi in a single layer until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen—do not thaw.
    • Cooked gnocchi can be refrigerated for 2–3 days and pan-seared in butter just before serving.
  • Coconut Gelato

    Coconut Gelato

    There’s a quiet beauty to coconut when you let it stand on its own—clean, fragrant, and naturally sweet. This gelato leans into that simplicity with a smooth, silky texture and a pure coconut flavor that shines without distraction. Lightly toasted coconut infuses the base for depth, then strains away to keep every bite incredibly smooth.

    Ingredients

    Coconut Base

    • 1 can (13.5–14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
    • 1 cup whole milk
    • ⅔ cup granulated sugar
    • 3 large egg yolks
    • ⅛ tsp xanthan gum
    • ½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut, lightly toasted
    • ¼ tsp fine salt
    • 1 tsp vanilla extract
    • ¼ tsp coconut extract (optional)

    Directions

    Prepare the Coconut Base

    Toast the shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat until lightly golden and fragrant. Set aside.

    In a medium saucepan, whisk together the coconut milk, whole milk, half the sugar, and salt. Warm over medium heat until steaming but not boiling.

    In a separate bowl, whisk the remaining sugar with the egg yolks until pale. Slowly ladle in some of the warm coconut milk mixture while whisking constantly, then return everything to the saucepan.

    Cook gently over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the custard reaches 175–178°F and thickens slightly, just enough to coat the back of a spoon (nappe consistency). Do not boil.

    Infuse, Strain, Stabilize & Chill

    Remove from heat, stir in the toasted coconut, cover, and let steep for 20–30 minutes.

    Strain the custard through a fine mesh sieve to remove the coconut solids. While the base is still warm, stir in the vanilla extract and optional coconut extract.

    Sprinkle the xanthan gum evenly over the surface and blend with an immersion blender (or regular blender) for 10–15 seconds to fully disperse.

    Chill completely, preferably overnight.

    Churn

    Churn the gelato in your ice cream maker until smooth and thick. Transfer to a lidded container and freeze for 4–6 hours to set.

    Notes

    Preparation

    • Lightly toasting the coconut deepens flavor without adding texture, since it is strained out.
    • Xanthan gum prevents iciness and preserves a clean coconut profile without thickening the custard.
    • Use an instant-read thermometer to monitor the custard temperature; keeping it in the 175–178°F range ensures safety and proper thickening without curdling the yolks.

    Serving Suggestions

    • Serve with fresh pineapple or mango.
    • Pair with chocolate sauce or shaved dark chocolate.
    • Excellent alongside tropical cakes or fruit tarts.

    Variations

    • Dark Chocolate Coconut Gelato: Fold in ¾ cup chopped dark chocolate during the last minute of churning. Optional: add ½ tsp almond extract for an Almond-Joy style profile.
    • Pineapple Swirl: Simmer 1 cup pineapple with 2 tbsp sugar and a pinch of salt for 5–7 minutes. Blend smooth, chill, and layer into the gelato as you transfer it from the machine.
    • Mango Swirl: Blend 1 cup ripe mango with 2–3 tbsp sugar, chill fully, and swirl into the gelato for a marbled effect.

    Make-Ahead & Storage

    • Best texture is within the first 3–4 days.
    • Store tightly covered to prevent absorption of freezer odors.
  • Mango Gelato

    Mango Gelato

    This bright and silky gelato captures the pure flavor of ripe mangoes in classic Italian style—smooth, dense, and refreshingly balanced. The natural sweetness of the fruit shines through a light dairy base, while a touch of vanilla or spiced rum adds warmth and depth. Each scoop feels like a taste of summer, golden, fragrant, and intensely mango-forward.

    Ingredients

      Base:

    • 2 cups ripe mango purée (strained to remove fibers; from about 3–4 large mangoes or 16 oz frozen mango)
    • 1 cup whole milk
    • ¼ cup heavy cream
    • ⅔ cup sugar
    • ⅛ tsp xanthan gum (stabilizer)
    • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
    • pinch table salt
    • ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional; rounds flavor)
    • 1 tbsp spiced rum (optional; softens texture and adds warmth)

    Directions

    Prepare the Mango Purée

    Peel and cube ripe mangoes, or use thawed frozen mango chunks. Purée until completely smooth in a blender or food processor, then strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove fibers. Measure 2 cups purée, cover, and refrigerate.

    Make the Dairy Base

    In a small saucepan, whisk together milk, cream, sugar, and salt. Heat gently over medium heat until steaming and the sugar is fully dissolved. Remove from heat and cool slightly, about 10–15 minutes.

    Combine & Stabilize

    In a blender, combine the cooled milk mixture, mango purée, lemon juice, vanilla, and rum (if using). Sprinkle xanthan gum evenly over the surface and immediately blend on high for 30–45 seconds until emulsified and slightly thickened.

    Chill the Base

    Transfer to a covered container and refrigerate until very cold, at least 4 hours or overnight for best texture.

    Churn & Freeze

    Churn the chilled base in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer instructions until thick and velvety. Transfer to a container and freeze 3–4 hours to firm fully.

    Notes

    Preparation

    • Xanthan gum improves creaminess and prevents iciness; a little goes a long way.
    • Lemon juice brightens the mango flavor and balances natural sweetness.
    • If mangoes are less sweet, increase sugar slightly (up to ¾ cup total).
    • For a richer variation, substitute coconut milk for the whole milk.

    Serving Suggestions

    • Serve with diced fresh mango or mango coulis for extra fruit intensity.
    • Top with toasted coconut flakes or macadamia nuts for added texture.
    • Pair with lime cookies or shortbread for contrast.

    Make-Ahead & Storage

    • Refrigerate the blended base for up to 2 days before churning.
    • Store churned gelato in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
    • Allow to soften at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before scooping.