Italy is a country of great diversity. From the cool Alpine foothills to the hot, dry south, the climate and local crops vary: rice, maize and ham are northern staples, while olives, durum wheat and tomatoes thrive in the southern heat. Traditional foods are still central to the cultural identity of each region, with recipes passing down from generation to generation. The recipes in this book reflect that heritage with classic starters such as Minestrone and Roasted Pepper Antipasto, filling Four Seasons Pizza, succulent Roast Chicken with Fennel, fragrant Risotto with Asparagus, and refreshing Lemon Granita. If you like Italian food, you will love this book.