Whether you’re planning a romantic meal, or want an easy throw-together weeknight meal that the whole family will love – there are some items that should always have a spot in your pantry. Some of these ingredients will last you a while (spices seem to last forever!) and some may only be temporary guests (wine…) but they’re worthwhile to keep on hand.
Olive Oil
Every Italian knows that olive oil makes a meal better. In case you missed it, here is a post about 4 things you may not know about olive oil. EVOO (extra virgin olive oil) can be a great addition to the beginning or the end of the meal. It can be used to cook with or prepare a marinade, and it can be used as a salad dressing to top the perfect salad.
As our own Gabrielle Alesci would say, “ Olive oil is a huge part of the Italian flavor. Good olive oil can make a meal taste truly authentic.” At Jim Alesci’s place, we only sell the best EVOO that will be a positive addition to any meal you make.
The Perfect Pasta Ingredients
Every busy parent, or lackadaisical cook, knows that pasta is an easy anytime meal. Pasta noodles and sauce are an easy keep in your pantry. We recommend our homemade pasta sauce sold by the jar, and whatever pasta noodle is your family’s favorite. You can read here about what pasta shapes go well with certain sauce types!
Our marinara sauce is 100% natural!
A Good Bottle of Wine
A good bottle of wine is always good to have in the house for multiple reasons. Not only can it be a great addition to any meal, but it is a great go-to gift for the host. And, we’ve learned that drinking red wine is good for you!
Good wine isn’t something you need to splurge on, but isn’t just a blind purchase. Anyone at Jim Alesci’s Place can help you pick out a bottle of red or white wine for a meal or gift!
A Thorough Spice Selection
There are many different philosophies on how to spice up a meal. There are thoughts that if you can’t see it, you can’t taste it. There are many spices such as rosemary, red pepper, parsley and garlic powder that don’t take up much space, but are great to have on-hand!
We have handpicked the most essential items to have in your pantry at all times. All of which can be found here at Jim Alesci’s Place in Solon. We always have the best of the best Italian products ready for you to take home!