Book excerpt: 'Italians are passionate and opinionated about their food and I am no exception!' Italian-born food lover, blogger and actress Silvia Colloca offers us her personal insight into authentic Italian home cooking. Now living in Australia, she is quick to correct the misconception that every dish must be drowned in olive oil or topped with a thick coating of parmesan. On the contrary, Silvia's everyday recipes are simple, light and healthy, and based on fresh, seasonal ingredients. This is the food she grew up with. This is how Italians really eat. Step into Silvia's kitchen and sample such goodies as twice-cooked cinnamon galettes, watermelon rind jam, white wine and fennel crackers, Abruzzese fisherman's stew with garlic toast, ricotta gnocchi with cavolo nero pesto, and strawberry and mascarpone cake. Silvia's warmth, humour and thoughtful instructions show you how easily it can be done in your own kitchen.