An excellent way to turn a popular Italian slow food standard into an easy and quicker family classic.

Well, hers, mine – and Norma’s too…

In San Joaquin County, at Stockton California they stage an Asparagus Festival in April. Stockton is the centre of asparagus growing in California so it makes sense to celebrate the crop…

This is a standard Soho trattatoria fare of the 70’s. Bresaola, rocket and Parmesan is still popular so the avocado element seems to have fallen out of favour. Put it back in – it’s a good combo!

A really easy and tasty starter or light lunch or supper. Make during summer when home-grown asparagus might still be available.

A simple 30 minute Italian Classic.

This is a clever way with meat balls. As small individual portions it makes an elegant Italian starter. The smaller-sized meatballs and thin spaghetti also make a fun and wholesome dish for children. Or piled high on a big platter it makes a great family dish to share around the table.

One of a series of easy and flavoursome half hour family recipes using 10 ingredients.

‘Wow, this is probably my favourite dishes ever! Creamy, yummy risotto.”

‘Ah polenta, a traditional Italian dish our family eat on special occasions. The sauce Dad made requires you to lick your plate clean.’

‘It’s pretty obvious now but anything pasta based makes me very happy. Radicchio is a new craving too…’