Skip to Content
Features

An Ode to Our Nonnas

A regular column at Appetito will feature the recipes from the Nonnas of our respective contributors.

Rossella Rago and her Nonna Ninette Romano.

Rossella Rago and her Nonna Ninette Romano.

We at Appetito were thrilled with our wide-ranging, entertaining and insightful interview with food diva Rossella Rago. We were also inspired by her mission to champion grandmothers everywhere, to give them the recognition they deserve, in many respects, but particularly by showcasing the value their cooking has in our lives (even in the cases where they are no longer with us).

With this type of tribute in mind, we decided to dedicate a new column to the recipes of the respective nonnas of Appetito contributors and readers (see below for submission instructions). First up is our Editor-in-Chief, Andrew Cotto, who shares this recipe from his maternal grandmother, Phyllis Maccarrone, for her Veal Spiedini.

Editor's Note: If you would like to submit your own "Ode to Nonna" please provide the following to: andrew@appetitomagazine.com.

  1. A brief (1-3 paragraph) introduction to your nonna.
  2. A related recipe with precise ingredient measurements and instructions.
  3. Two hi-res (minimum 1020 pixels wide) horizontal photos (one featuring your nonna, and one of the finished dish).

Submissions are not a guarantee of publication.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More Stories

Introducing Babies to Italian Food: Family Recipes for First Meals

From semolino and zucchini puree to pasta and spezzatino, these Italian-inspired first foods make mealtime easy for babies and the whole family.

A Journey Through Umbria and Le Marche With Italy Charme

From saffron fields and medieval castles to Michelin-starred dining, discover a quieter side of Italy through Italy Charme.

July 15, 2026

Beyond the Boutique Hotel: Inside Casa J.K. Place Roma

The boutique hotel brand is expanding with an intimate collection of luxury residences in central Rome.

Daniel’s Miami is South Florida’s New Destination Steakhouse

In Coral Gables, an Italian-American restaurateur pivots to a focus on Florida beef, fine wines, and a steakhouse sides menu that includes pasta dishes. 

July 14, 2026

The Art of Balance: Bob Pisani on Life Beyond Wall Street

After decades covering Wall Street, Bob Pisani reflects on the passions that matter most beyond the markets.

July 13, 2026