SOUTHWICK – You don’t have to be from Italy – or even Italian – to make and enjoy Limoncello.
The Italian liqueur is an after dinner favorite and, according to those in the know, is quite simple to make.
To bring a bit of fresh Italian flair to the doldrums of winter, the Southwick Cultural Council (SCC) is hosting an afternoon of Limoncello with Ralph and Rose Cuomo of the Italian Cultural Center of Western Massachusetts.
The event is set for Feb. 2 from 1:30-3 p.m. at Town Hall and will include a live demonstration by the Cuomos, complete with stories from Italy.
“They talk about how they met and fell in love and it is very funny,” said Pat McMahon of the Southwick Cultural Club. “It’s kind of a ‘Lucy & Ricky’ sort of show.”
The Cuomos have been making their own Limoncello for many years and pass on their tradition and story through demonstrations. After attending one of their events – which are part culinary, part comedy – McMahon and another SCC member decided to bring a bit of Italy to Southwick.
“This is the first event we’re having that is an ethnic culinary experience,” said McMahon, “but we hope to have more if it is well received. We are looking for suggestions for other experiences.”
The Cuomo Limoncello recipe has just four ingredients – water, sugar, alcohol and lemon zest. The couple will take participants through the process step by step while sharing their stories.
McMahon said everyone in attendance will receive the recipe and a sample to take home.
The event is free and includes refreshments. However, seating is limited to 40 and reservations must be made by Jan. 21.
The Mission of the Italian Cultural Center of Western Massachusetts, Inc. is to promote Italian culture, traditions, heritage and the Italian language, through the sponsoring of social, culinary and educational events, and to foster appreciation and respect in the community for the rich contributions that Italians have made locally and throughout the world.
The Center, located in Springfield, offers Italian language classes for adults and children, periodic dinners with great Italian food, Italian heritage celebrations, cooking classes, a library, assistance in learning more about your Italian genealogy, and more.
To reserve a seat at the Limoncello event, email [email protected] or call 569-6531.
