Spring in Sicily is a magical season of abundant growth and fertility. Fruit treesand vines are in new leaf, wheat fields stretch to the horizon, wild flowers growin profusion along the roadside and, at sea, tuna and swordfish swarm in anticipationof their annual migration. It is the perfect time to travel to Sicily and uncoverits secrets. Although small, Sicily has a big reputation and a colourful history. Itsprized position on the Mediterranean trade route has rewarded Sicily with centuriesof invasion and the influence of its conquerors is still evident in its architecture,cuisine and daily life. From the glittering Palermo of princes and palazzos tohumble seaside bars, from the derelict and forgotten island of Salina to vineyardsthriving on the rich slopes of Mount Etna, Manuela Darling-Gansser's Sicilianjourney reveals the real Sicily behind the myths and stereotypes. Like its landscape,Sicily's food is one of contrasts - rich Arab spices, exquisite mild ricotta, heartypasta, decadent desserts, and plenty of fresh fish, oranges, lemons and pistachios. And all Sicilians would agree, the best food is cooked at home. Drawn from thebest of Sicilian cuisine, Manuela's recipes are always tempting and make it easy tointroduce the flavours of Sicily into your home. The fourth of Manuela's seasonaljourneys, Spring in Sicily is a lavishly illustrated and highly evocative journey tothe heart of this unique island.
