Culinary Sunshine

February is the time when many people simply have to see the sun; they make like birds and fly south for the winter to the shores of Florida, the Caribbean, or some other warm destination. Of course, the opportunity for this kind of escape is limited for all of us, due to the constraints of budget and time. So, I like to take a different route with something I call culinary sunshine – engaging and igniting my taste buds with the sunny, the spicy, and the sensuous unshy flavors that send the senses on a tropical getaway.

Sparkling Italian wines, particularly Prosecco from Veneto, are especially reminiscent of the sun and the dreamy, azure blue waters of the Italian Riviera. Imagine yourself sipping Carpene Malvolti Prosecco Rose or Brut while at Quartino. In fact, Quartino has launched the Q Wine Club, making this experience a reality in the comforts of your home. Membership is available on a variety of levels, simply click here for more info or join the Quartino Facebook fan page.

For days when it’s bitter cold, go ahead and boost your temperature with spice. A few spicy pasta dishes offered at Quartino are Spaghetti all’ Arrabbiata, Spaghetti alla Puttanesca, or Fusilli alla Napoletana – they pack a real kick.

Valentine’s Day – strategically located right in the middle of February – is the one occasion when you’re assured a different kind of warmth. This sensuous day’s intention seems to give you something to look forward to for the first half of the month, and to look back on fondly for the second.

Check out John Coletta’s new cookbook ‘250 True Italian Pasta Dishes: Easy and Authentic Recipes.’