What are some must-try dishes for tourists visiting Italy?
PM: No matter what area you visit, I highly recommend that you eat what is locally grown and made in that area. Ask for foods and wines made in the region. I especially recommend that you try the local olive oils, which are totally different from region to region. FS: What’s your wine advice? PM: My personal favorite red is Barbera because it’s got the perfect level of acidity that cleans the palate after each sip and goes so well with so many dishes. It really enhances the flavor of food. But, I’ve written several books on wine, so I have lots of favorites, and lots of wine advice! My favorite white is Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi. It’s got the body of a red and is truly extraordinary wine. FS: What three things do you always have in your fridge? PM: Eggs, because you can always cook something or other with them. Cheese, because it can be a meal in itself, and salami because it’s a great starting point to season a dish of pasta. FS: What’s your favorite Italian olive oil? PM: I’ve
