FLAVOR - By the Book 
11/19/2008   

Marchetti Returns With New Book On Entertaining 
Posted 2008-11-19
By Theresa Curry

I've recently become a fan of cookbook author Domenica Marchetti after using her cookbook, "Glorious Soups and Stews of Italy" for a year or so. This sometimes-forgotten, frugal culinary repertoire, drawn from Italian home cooking, is still available for those wanting to stretch their food dollars by serving flavorful soups and stews.

I was looking forward to Marchetti's second cookbook, "Big Night In," released this fall from Chronicle Books, and I haven't been disappointed. Its title says it all: Marchetti has collected the dishes she turns to when it's time to entertain. That's not to say you have to wait for a special occasion to open this book: There's more than 100 recipes, any of which would be most appreciated by the family members who gather around your table every night.

I've tried her Italian Pot Likker Greens, a great seasonal dish that blends Marchetti's love of Italy with her love of the American South, where she now lives. There's also a delicious Cheese Risotto, a wonderful torte combining chicken, potatoes and eggplant. Marchetti also recognizes that many of us entertain with a brunch during the holidays, so she supplies a festive brunch recipe as well.

I'm looking forward to cooking my way through the more than 100 recipes, some traditional and some contemporary dishes using Italian techniques. Marchetti includes recipes for every part of a festive meal: soups and salads, pasta and rice, main courses, side dishes and wonderful desserts.

Marchetti will be at The Seasonal Cook in Charlottesville from noon-2 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 29, to show you how to make several of her favorite dishes from "The Big Night In" and to sign copies of her book.

Find out more about this appearance and her cookbooks at www.domenicacooks.com or call The Seasonal Cook at (434) 295-9355.