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What food would you say is your specialty?

Hey foodies! 🌟 As an Italian am an avid lover of Italian cuisine, I can’t help but share my enthusiasm for the amazing flavors and rich culinary heritage that Italy has to offer. From the bustling streets of Rome to the charming alleys of Florence, every bite feels like a journey through Italy’s vibrant gastronomic landscape.

One dish that holds a special place in my heart is the classic Lasagna Bolognese. Picture layers upon layers of tender pasta sheets, generously smothered in a velvety tomato-based Bolognese sauce, interspersed with creamy béchamel and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. The result is a heavenly marriage of flavors that will leave you craving for more. It’s a testament to the artistry of Italian cooking. I spent so many hours since I was 4 yo in the kitchen with my Grandmother Anna, food and traditions from Italy and Greek are ingrained into me…..

But wait, there’s more! Let’s not forget about the delightful Tortellini. These little pockets of pasta perfection are typically filled with a mixture of meats, cheese, or vegetables and skillfully shaped into delicate rings. Each bite reveals a burst of savory goodness, especially when served in a delicate broth or tossed in a luscious sauce. Whether you prefer them stuffed with ricotta and spinach or a tantalizing meat blend, Tortellini is a true Italian gem.

Now, let me share with you my favorite recipe for authentic Lasagna Bolognese:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 lb Italian sausage
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, finely grated
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup red wine
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lasagna sheets
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and Italian sausage, breaking them up with a spoon, and cook until browned.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine, milk, and broth. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
4. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the Bolognese sauce. Place a layer of lasagna sheets on top, followed by another layer of sauce. Repeat until you run out of sauce and lasagna sheets, finishing with a layer of sauce on top.
5. Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
7. Allow the lasagna to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a touch of freshness.

And there you have it, a mouthwatering Lasagna Bolognese recipe that will transport you straight to Italy! Buon appetito!