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THOUGHTS of Italian food in the colder months, will almost always bring with them a nostalgic longing for summer. However, the Italian Escapes evening and seasonal specials at Gino D’Acampo’s My Restaurant proudly show us Italians can do autumn too.
The classic Tuscan vegetable, bean and bread soup starter was full of northern Italian flavour
Ribollita, the classic Tuscan vegetable, bean and bread soup was full of northern Italian flavour and packed a serious punch with notes of chilli and fennel seed. The soup-soaked bread at the bottom was delicious and a generous grating of pecorino cheese enhanced the dish with another level of flavour. On the whole, the soup was typically Tuscan; simple, hearty, colourful and most importantly perhaps, not terribly unhealthy.
Other starters included chicken liver pate, which was creamy, silky and light. Isle of Man stewed mussels were great quality, wonderfully sweet and fresh as can be. The classic Moules mariniere treatment was given an exciting Gino twist with the inclusion of tomato and chilli which had the taste buds tingling and desperate for more.
Lentil and butternut squash salad with walnuts and cranberries is a great example of how autumnal food and flavours needn't be heavy on the stomach. The dish was filling and enlightened by a zesty flavour from lemon and extra virgin olive oil dressing. It was a symphony of contrasting flavours and textures, and another perfect dish for the health conscious.
Polenta crusted mackerel with tomato and basil salad was another example of classic Mediterranean flavours which can endure well into the autumn months. The tomato salad was sour and sweet and packed full of strong garlic and fresh basil. The fish was perfectly cooked and seasoned in its polenta crumb…it really shouldn’t be missed.
Of course, lunch or dinner wouldn’t be complete without a pasta dish, and fettuccine didn't disappoint; dressed in a classic tomato sauce with salami from the northern Italian mountains, lashings of pecorino cheese and a slight tingle of spice, this dish was a great way to round off the meal… Bon Appetito!
See Gino's Italian Escapes, 8pm Monday on ITV
Gino D'Acampo My Restaurant, Corn Exchange, Manchester
