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 from Appetito

Chicago’s Alla Vita Arrives in Nashville

The acclaimed Chicago chef expands his Italian concept to Tennessee.

Jonathan Bailey is the New Face of MARTINI’s Summer Campaign

The actor brings his signature charm to a campaign inspired by Italian style, summer gatherings and the growing popularity of the spritz.

An American is Spicing up the Town of Carpeneto

James McKinley Thomason has bought up property in Piemonte and has some lofty plans.

June 17, 2026

Sipping and Sunning: Mana Breeze Italicus-Infused Cocktail

This seasonal cocktail from El Ta'Koy pairs juicy watermelon and mezcal with Italicus for a refreshing summer sip.

June 17, 2026

Santa Margherita, LoveShackFancy Drop Giant Rosé Bottles Just in Time for Summer

Santa Margherita and LoveShackFancy are partnering up for a second summer in a row.

June 17, 2026

Why Sciacca May Be Sicily’s Next Great Food Destination

The team behind Vela Ristorante and Domus Maris Boutique Hotel is helping introduce travelers to a different side of Sicily.

See all posts