As the summer solstice approaches, many of us begin to think of ways to celebrate the longest day of the year. For centuries, cultures around the world have marked the solstice with festivals, feasts, and rituals. In Italy, one traditional way to celebrate is by making herb tortelli and nocino, two delicious and quintessentially Italian dishes that are perfect for summer.

Herb tortelli are small, stuffed pasta pockets that are filled with a mixture of finely chopped herbs, ricotta cheese, and Parmesan cheese. They are typically served in a simple sauce made from butter and sage, which complements the subtle flavors of the herbs and allows them to shine. The dish is light and fresh, making it the perfect choice for a summer dinner party or a solstice celebration.

To make herb tortelli, you will need a pasta machine and a good recipe for fresh pasta dough. You can choose any combination of herbs you like, but some of the traditional Italian choices include parsley, basil, marjoram, and thyme. The herbs are finely chopped and mixed with the cheeses to create a flavorful filling that is then spooned onto small squares of pasta dough. The dough is folded over and sealed to form small pockets, which are then boiled briefly and served with the sage and butter sauce.

Nocino, on the other hand, is a sweet and spicy liqueur that is made from green walnuts, sugar, and spices. The liqueur is typically made in the summer, as the green walnuts are harvested around the time of the summer solstice. The walnuts are soaked in alcohol for several weeks, along with cinnamon, cloves, lemon zest, and other aromatics, before being sweetened with sugar and bottled.

Nocino is a popular digestif in Italy, and is often served after a meal as a way to aid in digestion and relax the body. It has a rich, complex flavor that is both sweet and spicy, with notes of cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg. It is also a lovely way to mark the summer solstice, as its rich, dark color and spicy aroma evoke the warmth and abundance of the season.

To make nocino, you will need green walnuts, high-proof alcohol such as vodka or brandy, sugar, and spices. The walnuts are sliced into quarters and soaked in alcohol for several weeks, along with the spices and sugar, until the flavors have infused the alcohol. The mixture is then strained and bottled, and can be enjoyed immediately or aged for several months to mellow the flavors.

Together, herb tortelli and nocino make a festive and flavorful combination that is perfect for celebrating the summer solstice. The lightness of the pasta and the richness of the liqueur balance each other beautifully, creating a meal that is both satisfying and refreshing. Whether you are sitting outside under the summer stars, or gathered with friends and family around a cozy table, herb tortelli and nocino are sure to make your solstice celebration memorable.

Quest'articolo è stato scritto a titolo esclusivamente informativo e di divulgazione. Per esso non è possibile garantire che sia esente da errori o inesattezze, per cui l’amministratore di questo Sito non assume alcuna responsabilità come indicato nelle note legali pubblicate in Termini e Condizioni
Quanto è stato utile questo articolo?
0Vota per primo questo articolo!