There are plenty of holiday traditions my Italian family grew up with that I’d be happy to ditch. Top of the list is panettone, the bready, dry, candied-fruit-studded answer to the fruitcake, which get regifted around Italian households so frequently, I’m certain the same one passes under our family tree at least thrice per season. (They do, however, make stupidly-good French toast. You’re welcome.)
Here’s a food item I’d be far more keen to enjoy along with the oranges La Befana was nice enough to leave in my shoes: cute, cheeky Christmas-shaped ravioli. The gingerbread men, Christmas trees (complete with savoury sparkles) and stars come from Continental Noodles, a family-run pasta shop that’s been cranking out fresh noodles in the GTA for half a century.
The ricotta-stuffed ravioli go for $14.99 for 500g, and if you’re unsure of how to deck out this particular festive meal, the Liberatore family suggests “traditional sauces like an amatriciana, brown butter or rich white sauce, topped with a sprinkle of fresh grana padano.” Grab yours at Continental Noodles (1664 Jane, at Lawrence, 416-249-4022) or Pasta Goodness (602 Marlee, at Glencairn, 416-787-0363).
nataliam@nowtoronto.com | @nataliamanzocco
