Kuhn Rikon 3pc Decorative Cutlery Set. That friend who just took a lifechanging cooking class? She’ll know exactly what to do with these pretty little tools.

The Get Gifty: Our Holiday Gift Shop Boutique is now open.

It really doesn’t get better than a well-rounded roll call of friends and family. I mean, who wants to surround themselves with the same person all the time? (Not this girl.)

Gifting such a wide array of loved ones, however, isn’t always easy… which is exactly where Get Gifty: Our Holiday Gift Shop comes in.

Clockwise, from left – here’s a little something to get those gifty juices flowing.

1. For the Top-Chef-in-Training. And, rejoice! – supervision (slash fire extinguisher) not necessary.

2. For the Girl on the Go (who always loses her phone). As soon as she recovers from the shock typically brought on by stylishly smart presents like this one, your friend will never put this delicious leather wristlet down.

3. For the Jingling-Jangling Jewelry Fiend. This ferocious bangle? It’s a seamless addition to any well-curated bracelet stack.

4. For the Budding Oenophile. This opener has any wine bottle uncorked in an instant – which, I’m guessing, is how an oenophile likes it.

5. For the Not-Always-on-Time Friend. Sure, she gets a to-die-for watch. Your gift, though? No longer having to fib about start times (“8:00? No, it starts at 7:50…”) in the name of her prompt arrival.

6. For the Guy with the New Fitness Regimen. Help him keep those (slowly loosening) pants securely in place.

The Get Gifty: Our Holiday Gift Shop Boutique is now open.

By Sarah Stanley, Staff Writer

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WORLD-RENOWNED CHEF AND HOST OF OUR AUTHENTIC FOODS OF ITALY: TOUR THE ITALIAN COUNTRYSIDE BOUTIQUE SHARES HIS INSIGHT INTO THE FAVORED CUISINE

A culinary tour through Italy is all about the senses – the tastes (first and foremost), the smells, the scenery. And of course, the people who make it all so delicious. Chef Tony Mantuano (maybe you recall him as one of the most revered and beloved contestants of Top Chef Masters) hosts the tour with his wife and culinary partner, Cathy. The expedition departs Rome and journeys through Molise, giving guests “insight into a little-known region’s food, wine, and history.” We sat down with Chef Mantuano for his take on all things Italian.

Rue La La: The itinerary takes Members through several villages and home-style restaurants. What’s your one favorite meal?
Chef Mantuano: The specialty of the region is called Pampanella – delicious and unforgettable. [Editor's note: Pampanella is a pork dish, marinated overnight with garlic and ground sweet pepper.]

Rue La La: When we think Italian, we think hearty pastas, rich sauces, and creamy cheeses. How do you keep it light and healthy?
Chef Mantuano: It’s all about dining Italian-style with sensible portions, vegetables, and wine.

Rue La La: What’s an ingredient we should never compromise on when preparing Italian food?
Chef Mantuano: Aceto balsamico (balsamic vinegar). There is no substitute for the real thing. Also, extra virgin olive oil – it’s the one food I can’t live without. One of the best comes from Molise-Il Traturello, which we will be visiting on this trip.

Rue La La: What’s your ultimate Italian meal?
Chef Mantuano: Insalata di puntarelle (puntarelle chicory salad with anchovy sauce), linguine con vongole (linguine with clams), and abbacchio al Romano (Roman-style roast lamb), all paired with rarified Italian wines (Pigato from Liguria and Brunello di Montalcino, to be specific), an assortment of cheeses, and a good espresso.

Rue La La: What’s one ingredient a chef should always keep on hand?
Chef Mantuano: Capers. They give a distinctive flavor to many dishes, but they are often overlooked when stocking the pantry. Plus, they have a good shelf life.

Rue La La: Describe the power of Italian cuisine in three words.
Chef Mantuano: Satisfying. Healthy. Soulful.

Our Authentic Foods of Italy: Tour the Italian Countryside Boutique opens Wednesday, January 26 at 11AM. ]]> http://www.ruelala.com/blog/2011/01/26/five-minute-pow-wow-chef-tony-mantuano-talks-tastes-tours-and-italian-soul/feed/ 4