We have all seen the charming bags of artisanal pasta arranged in pretty little nests, and probably too many of us have passed them by, unsure of what to do with them in our own kitchens.

With a proud smile on her face, Sabrina went to speak with the man behind the counter.  She came back saying, “OK, he is preparing for us some specialties from the area.”  We had no idea what was in store.  The waiter arrived with a plate of baked Radicchio di Treviso, the most gorgeous looking food I’ve ever seen, with polenta, a cheese from the mountains, and a local meat.  Every bite was special.