" Redhead was in her glory glory days - the gals would get dressed up in their long evening gowns and the men would wear their suits and each couple would entertain the other on Saturday evenings for a splendid dinner party.
My father used to cook the meals - Mum was a meat and 3 veg kind of cook: She still is. A no fuss, no bother kind of cook. Dad , on the other hand, was the culinary artiste. He had a cook book “ Food of the World “ ( which I still have ) and, from this, he would find menus to prepare on their bi-weekly soirees.
He would create menus that took all day to prepare. The meal was always something to celebrate. Many hours of preparation and dedication to the craft of cooking.
John’s wife would also prepare wonderful meals and my Mum and John’s wife became firm friends.She, John's wife, like my father, loved the gift of cooking and the bounty of the food that people received in convivial surroundings.
And the table would be set and the best china would be brought out ( that was how it was back in the 70's ) and the ladies and gentlemen would arrive.
To dine and talk and enjoy the bounty that was friendship, food and the odd glass of wine or whisky. "Shaydee
The history of pasta is a rich and fascinating tale that spans centuries and continents. While pasta is often associated with Italy, its origins can be traced back much further. The exact origins of pasta are a subject of debate among historians, but evidence suggests that it has been consumed for thousands of years. Some believe that pasta-like dishes were consumed in ancient civilizations such as the Etruscans and the Greeks.
One theory suggests that pasta was introduced to Italy via the Silk Road from China. Chinese noodles bear some resemblance to Italian pasta, and Marco Polo is often credited with bringing noodles to Italy upon his return from China in the 13th century. Another theory posits that pasta was introduced to Italy by the Arabs during their rule of Sicily in the 9th century. Arab culinary traditions included dishes made from durum wheat, which is the primary ingredient in pasta. By the 12th century, pasta had become a staple in Italian cuisine. Initially, pasta was made by hand and dried in the sun. Its long shelf life made it an ideal food for long sea voyages, and it became popular among sailors and explorers.
The Industrial Revolution brought significant advancements in pasta production. In the 19th century, mechanical pasta-making machines were invented, making pasta more accessible and affordable for the masses. Italian immigrants brought pasta with them as they settled in various parts of the world, leading to its widespread popularity. Today, pasta is enjoyed in countless countries and is a staple in cuisines ranging from Italian to American to Asian. Over time, pasta has evolved into a multitude of shapes and forms, each with its own unique characteristics and culinary uses. From spaghetti to penne to ravioli, the variety of pasta dishes is virtually endless. Pasta holds a special place in Italian culture and is celebrated in festivals such as World Pasta Day. It has also inspired art, literature, and music, becoming a symbol of Italian identity and culinary excellence.
Overall, the history of pasta is a testament to the enduring appeal of this simple yet versatile food, which has captivated taste buds around the world for centuries.
