The healthiest diet in the world has been named the Mediterranean diet, and of that group, Italy’s food choices have been designated the best and most simple. Fresh fruits and vegetables, lean and nonfat meats and the absence of fast foods are among the myriad of healthy choices. Bad habits are hard to break, but with resolve and perseverance it can be done. Following is a good example of Italian eating at its best and healthiest. So have a heart and try it. Buon appetito. Ciao.

Tagliatelle Picante Ai Funghi Portabelli
(Spicy Tagliatelle Pasta with Portobello Mushrooms)
1 pound tagliatelle pasta or wide noodles
1 pound mushrooms
1 small onion
1 red bell pepper
1 tablespoon chopped parsley
1/2 stick butter
1 cup white wine
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup grated Romano or Parmesan cheese

Bring a pot of water, well salted, to boil for the pasta. While waiting, begin the mushroom sauce by dicing large Portobello, or halving small ones, and also dice the onion, red bell pepper, and the parsley. In a sauté pan, melt the butter but do not brown it. When melted, add the chopped vegetables, except the parsley. Mix well and when about midway cooked, add wine and red pepper flakes. Continue simmering until vegetables are cooked to al dente texture. Add noodles to boiling water and cook for about eight minutes, undercooking it before al denture texture.

Drain noodles, and add to mushroom sauce a little at a time, until all are well blended and have completed cooking. Season to taste with salt and pepper. When plated, dish may be topped with grated cheese, Italian bread crumbs and parsley.