Garibaldi-Meucci Museum Hosts 'FROM BREAD AND TOMATOES' Author Rossana del Zio Today

Today, January 20 at 2 p.m., the Garibaldi-Meucci Museum will host author Rossana del Zio, who will present her book, "From Bread and Tomatoes to Zuppa di Pesce 'Ciambotto:' Memories of Apulian Cuisine."

The exquisite food of Apulia is the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. Sun, sea, fertile soil and the food traditions of multiple cultures blend together to enrich the intense flavors and aromas of the region's unique products. A series of vignettes and descriptions of the culinary culture of Apulia, along with signature recipes for traditional dishes, "From Bread and Tomatoes" is an introduction to the overall culture of the region. It presents, through the particular lens of food, a rich and fascinating region of Italy that has become better known to people in the United States only within the past decade or so.

The writer/journalist "currently lives in Rome, but visits her native Puglia on a regular basis. Having learned to cook in a professional setting and in her family restaurant in Bari, she now dedicates her passion for cooking to smaller events in people's homes...and to writing. Author of books on history and cuisine, her publications include, "Il paese maledetto," "Brigantaggio un viaggio attraverso il presente," "Either Brigands or Emigrants," "Niccolina storia di una brigantessa," "La Bicicletta di Sam: Una Storia siciliana d'Amore ed Emigrazione," and "Gente di passaggio." Ms. del Zio also writes about modern culture for the Italian-American magazine "Atlantis."

Ms. del Zio will share her journey with you, discussing the culinary traditions of her land, and offering recipes, thoughts, images, memories and universal emotions, which all lead to her conclusion that "the power of the world is contained in food."

Following her presentation Ms. del Zio will be available to autograph copies of the book, which will be offered for sale. Admission of $10, $5 for members, includes a light reception.

The Garibaldi-Meucci Museum was the home of Antonio Meucci, the true inventor of the telephone, and a refuge to Giuseppe Garibaldi, the legendary hero who championed the unification of Italy. For over 50 years the museum has fulfilled its mission to preserve the legacies of these great men, and to promote understanding of the Italian-American heritage through cultural, artistic and educational programs and classes. The historic Italian landmark on Staten Island, the Garibaldi-Meucci Museum is owned by the Sons of Italy Foundation and administered by the NYSOSIA GMM Board of Commissioners.

Regular museum hours are 1 p.m.-5 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday. Admission is $5 per person, members and children under 10 are free. Call ahead for groups of 10 or more. The first floor of the museum is wheelchair accessible, but the restroom is on the second floor.