From salads and pizzas to pancakes and toast, there's virtually no food that wouldn't improve with the addition of ricotta. The delicious soft white Italian cheese is a marvel, and if you're among its many fans, you can celebrate it at the upcoming Ricotta Festival on March 17 hosted by That's Amore Cheese.
You can begin the feasting by tasting fresh, hot ricotta straight out of the vat and feasting on all manner of Italian dishes. This includes pizza, gnocchi, ravioli, porchetta rolls, panzerotti and cannoli.
When you're ready to switch things up a bit, you can also enjoy Sicilian-style charcoal barbecue, cold treats from Boca Gelato, deep-fried pockets of dough from Il Panzerotto and strawberries with chocolate drizzle from Natfood. As for beverages, Aperol Spritzes, wines, beers, Italian soft drinks and more will be on offer.
This year, lively Italian music and performances will be provided by the Siesta Cartel Band, Melbourne's Tarantella Dancers and DJ Stefano Marciano. And don't miss demonstrations from chefs like Guy Grossi, Darren Purchese and Andrea Cozzolino. For the kids, there will be a petting zoo, mobile play centre and face painting. Plus, the Carlton Football Club van will be getting everyone involved with goal-kicking and prize giveaways.
And before you go, don't forget to stock up your pantry with goodies from vendors like Bippi, Battisti, Il Baronello Vinocotto, Backyard Honey and Barkly Smokehouse.
Tickets are $10 until February 10, and $15 after and include entry and a serve of hot ricotta. Get yours through the website.