Buongiorno Italy readers!

Since we’re all indoors right now, we’ve selected ten of our favorite Instagram profiles that focus on Italian cuisine to help spur your inner chef.

Why the idea of La Dolce Vita is desired even more than ever by foreigners right now. 

Founded in the 5th century and spread over 118 small islands, Venice became a major maritime power in the 10th century. We look at this UNESCO-recognized area of Italy in our latest dual-language article.

Our recipe of the week underscores the earthy nutty flavor of fresh fava beans, which combines wonderfully with the crunchy bread bits and creamy Fontina cheese. This recipe is one of the few pasta dishes from Valle d’Aosta, as that northern most Italian region specializes more in polenta and rice. It’s made with small tube pasta called ditalini, which means “little thimbles.”

It looks like we’re all turning into chefs these days, churning out bread, pizza, handmade pasta, and more - at least here in Italy. Well, there’s one more very Italian thing you can learn making at home, and that is gelato! 

We love these simple, elegant handmade bags with double handles, an artisan creation available in our online shop. They are made of cotton rope and nylons, plaited by hand. 100% made in Italy.

People in need during this state of emergency over coronavirus are finding they’re not always left alone. Solidarity initiatives that are spreading through Italy include the ‘Campagna Amica - Spesa sospesa a domicilio’, promoted by Coldiretti, Italy’s main farmers’ association. 

Tourism is currently one of the most affected sectors during the outbreak of Coronavirus COVID-19 and this week as part of our “Italy Stay Strong” series we heard from one sustainable tour operator in Tuscany.

If you’re planning on cooking some delicious Italian food at home this week, what Italian expressions could you use to describe your food? ‘Che buono!’, which means ‘so tasty’ is a common way to say something is delicious. But what if you want to add some variety to what you say?

Our property of the week is a true Tuscan stunner. A wonderful apartment with terrace in the heart of Lucca's historic centre. Top, third floor of an old building along the antique stores street, Via Del Battistero. Pedestrian and quiet area. Once a month, every third weekend of every month, you can enjoy the antique market just downstairs.

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend from Georgette, your editor, and the Italy Magazine team.