The Italian Pantry

Whenever I visit my mother, I am impressed by her well-stocked pantry. For the most part, I do not have to rush out to the grocery store to buy staples. We are always ready to make any one of our favourite Italian dishes.

What is in her pantry?

• A variety of herbs such as basil, parsley,oregano, rosemary, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

• Plenty of pastas and arborio rice--these are the basics for many meals.

• Onions and garlic--from the garden.

• Canned tomato paste and plum tomatoes.

• Bouillon cubes, broths, and frozen stocks for Italian stews.

• A variety of cheeses--grated cheese, ricotta, provolone, and mozzarella.

• Olive oil and wine vinegar.

• Canned fish--sardines, mackerel, tuna, anchovies. These can be used in pastas, salads, and on top of pizza.