Based on a book published in 14th century England during the reign of Richard II, British researchers have declared that the dish known as lasagna is not Italian at all... The text describes a dish known as loseyns – pronounced lasan – which consisted of layering pasta, cheese and meat.

Ease of preparation, pleasing flavors and distinctive textures characterize this unique, exceptionally nutritious summer salad. The combination of orzo and chickpeas lends the dish a lightly exotic flavor enhanced by the herbs, tomatoes, lemon and touch of honey.

The spectacular coastline of Italy is home to many of the country's most luxurious seaside resorts. It also lays claim to some disarmingly desolate stretches of coast where lush forests of lemon trees, herbs, pines and almonds create fragrant breezes. It is here that pesto was born - a classic combination of basil, nuts, olive oil and garlic.

Some food fads seem to come straight from appliance makers determined to clutter up our kitchen counters. Currently, the hot new gadget is the sandwich grill or panini press. Similar to the waffle iron, some versions produce a crisp, thin-toasted sandwich that can be addictive.

Pesto, once an exotic Italian sauce, is now so common and popular that it can be found ready-made on supermarket shelves. But it's much better home-made, and easy to make, especially in the summer when tomatoes are at their best.

Have you ever opened a package of pasta and wondered how all those little shapes were made? Well, eat this up!