Winter recipe

Leek gnudi or Gnudi di Porri are a twist on a popular Tuscan dish of humble origins. Gnudi are traditionally little dumplings of sheep’s milk ricotta cheese and spinach, chard, or other greens such as cavolo nero (dinosaur kale), mixed with Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, fresh nutmeg, egg and often flour. In this version, I use leeks, an ingredient often used in Tuscan cuisine, instead of greens. Sauced with a butter and sage sauce, it’s a simple, delicious and lovely dish that’s quick to prepare.

I must admit that before my Aunt Rose served me her Italian Lentil Soup (Zuppa di Lenticchie) years ago, I’d never liked lentil soup. What I’d tasted previously was always boring and poorly prepared and I just thought that it was bland “health food”. This soup, however, is delicious, comforting, and satisfying. It’s exactly what I want to eat when the weather gets cool. I eat it all fall and winter long and never tire of it. It’s a family favorite.