Molto Italiano: 327 Simple Italian Recipes to Cook at Home    by Mario Batali Order:  USA  Can Ecco, 2005 (2005) Hardcover Read an Excerpt      Reviewed by Mary Ann Smyth The flyleaves of the new cookbook by Iron Chef Mario Batali outline the purpose and content of his wonderful presentation of Italian food far better than I ever could. We are told that 'Molto Italiano is the only Italian cookbook a home cook's shelf needs.' Simplicity is the byword here, along with all the encouragement a timid cook might need. These 327 recipes have evolved through ten years of Molto Mario television programs and from his three popular cookbooks: Mediterranean Mario, Mario Eats Italy and Ciao America with Mario Batali. Beatriz Da Costa's mouthwatering photographs make delving into the innards of this cookbook sheer culinary pleasure. Such gorgeous foods from the hands of a master. Can you gaze upon the picture of Savory Chestnut Custard and not run out to buy chestnuts? Or scan the recipe for Prosciutto with Baked Stuffed Figs and not hunger for that divine taste? The section on Pasta stopped me cold. Put a plate of pasta in front of me and I am one happy camper. I have never had Radicchio Tortelloni with Parmigiano Cream, but I sure intend to rectify that. And I have to taste Gnocchi with Fresh Tomatoes. And Tagliatelle Pancakes. And Green Fettuccine with Chicken Livers. Oh, you get the idea. I want them all. NOW. This superb cookbook covers the gamut, starting with a section on Antipasto to knock your socks off. Ranging from Soups and Pastas to Fish and Fowl, Meat and Vegetables, it then ventures on to the perfect climax to your marvelous home cooked Italian meal – Dolci. The sweet. Choices range from Rum and Ricotta Fritters and Roasted Pears with Chocolate to Clementines with Balsamic Vinegar and Pepper. Try Molto Italiano. Once you pick up this new offering in the cookbook market, you won't be able to put it down. Ever. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more NonFiction books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews