Food of the Italian South

Cooking and eating are both deeply rooted in the framework of Italian society, but, like its society, the country's cuisine is wildly diverse. While all of Italy values fresh produce and bright flavors, the Italian South is best known for its rustic and romantic cuisine. After the critical success of her first book Tasting Rome, Katie Parla travels south to the warm regions of Basilicata, Calabria, Campania, Molise, and Puglia to discover her heritage through food. With 85 original and reimagined recipes that encapsulate the regionally unique dishes and staples, Food touches on what readers might expect (mozzarella, tomatoes, coffee, fish, and of course, pasta), but Parla goes beyond the recipes with stories, cultural insights, and personal discoveries that only someone as intimately familiar with Italy as she is can offer.

KATIE PARLA moved to Rome in 2003 after graduating from Yale. She holds a sommelier certificate and a master's degree in Italian gastronomic culture. She writes about Roman food and beverage culture, and has contributed to and edited many travel guides. She often appears as a Rome expert on the History Channel and the university lecture circuit. She has created two mobile dining apps and blogs at KatieParla.com/blog. @katieparla