You may have noticed that our product selection is especially bountiful when it comes to Sicilian specialties. For that, we can thank the Sicilian roots of the Musco family in the beautiful town of Mistretta, Sicily. To think that Filippo Musco & Sons began as a donkey-led cart distribution service!
Thirty years later, the business continued in the United States, with sharp Pecorino cheeses and drums of Olive oil brought to the New World in hay-packed crates. The high density of Sicilian immigrants in the New York area meant a strong demand for the unique specialties found on the island – Musco Food stepped in to fill that demand.
To celebrate our heritage, we’ve focused this month’s promotion on the wonderful specialties of Sicily, and the other large island off of Italy, Sardegna. Click here to see our promotions, and contact your sales rep for prices!
Prepared Foods Recipes
Many of these ingredients make the perfect star ingredients in prepared dishes – the sunny, bold flavors of Sicily are ideal for late summer, and are sure to catch the eyes, and taste buds of your shoppers. Here are just some ideas for inspiration … Looking for a personalized recipe? Contact our Corporate Chef, Josh Arcaro at josha@muscofood.com.
The Spicy Sicilian
While this sandwich sources its ingredients from all around Italy, it gets its signature kick thanks to smoky, spicy Calabrese peppers, which are particularly popular in Sicily.
What you’ll need … Italian Bread, Vantia Calabrese Pepper Puree (611913), Vantia Giardinera (550810), Partanna Herb Vinaigrette (692250), Salami Columbus(522365) , Vantia Mortadella (511050), Vantia Prosciutto Di Parma – Red (511010), Sicuro Provolone (38S040), Fresh Sliced Tomato, Shredded lettuce, Salt and Pepper.
Sandwich alla Norma
This sandwich is loosely inspired by one of Sicily’s best pasta dishes: Pasta alla Norma. Featuring creamy, caramelized eggplant, sweet Burrata and zingy Balsamic Glaze, it’s a vegetarian’s dream. Its secret weapon? The Vantia Tomato Appetizers – semi-dried marinated tomatoes that pack an incredible punch of sweet, fruity, tangy flavor.
You’ll need … Italian Loaf, Fried Eggplant Cutlet, Vantia Burrata (241006), Vantia Red Pesto (791010), Balsamic Glaze (711393), Vantia Tomato Appetizer (551176).
Caponata Toast
An Avocado Toast, but make it Sicilian. Prepared in Sicily by a family-run producer using only simple, traditional ingredients, Vantia Caponata is a time-saving shortcut you can be proud to use in your kitchen.
You’ll need … Toasted bread of choice, Vantia Caponata (553013), Fresh Basil, Arugula, Sliced Avocado, Vantia Organic E.V.O.O. (660017), Salt & Pepper.
Sicilian Citrus Salad
Bright and refreshing, this savory salad uses the best flavors of summer. Adjust the quantity of Calabrese Chili Peppers based on your preferences, and don’t hesitate to top with some Vantia Ricotta Salata for some cooling creaminess.
You’ll need … Navel Orange Slices, Blood Orange Slices, Castellino Grilled Cipollini Onions, Vantia Calabrese Chili Peppers (611913), Vantia Organic E.V.O.O. (660017), Chiffonade of Fresh Basil and Mint.
Pasta con Sarde
Of all of Italy’s pasta dishes, Pasta con Sarde is the true underdog. The combination of sardines, fennel, raisins and pignoli nuts may seem unlikely, but comes together to create a truly divine flavor. To bring the dish to the next level, give your customers little tupperwares of toasted breadcrumbs to use as a topping.
You’ll need … Cuoco Pasta con Sarde (794830), Pastene Pignoli Nuts (743090),Giuseppe Cocco Spaghetti (852022), Pastene Bread Crumbs (805324).
Arancini
Arancini is a brilliant example of the many cultural layers at play in Sicilian cuisine – while Arborio Rice and Parmigiano may be typically Italian, golden saffron was brought over by the Muslim occupation of Sicily during the 9th century. Today, Arancini are enjoyed throughout all of Italy, but are a true Sicilian specialty. Those prepared in Eastern Sicily often have a conical shape, which may be a nod to Mount Etna.
You’ll need … Curtiriso Arborio Rice (895120), Zaffy Saffron (748880), any hard Pecorino cheese, Vantia Extra Virgin Olive Oil (660013), Pastene Tomato Paste (598034), Pastene Bread Crumbs (805324).