Spotlight: Local Flavor

Chef M. Mataio Gillis
Co-Owner, Ciao Thyme 

Ritrovo loves collaborating with chefs, in both the U.S. and Italy, especially those who understand the Ritrovo way of eating. Our emphasis on using the best raw ingredients, and Italian-style simplicity on the plate is the driving force behind the products we import.

Several years ago, Chef Mataio Gillis met Ilyse and Ron when seeking out great quality extra virgin olive oil for his restaurant, Ciao Thyme. Today he oversees five separate food businesses, with a distinctively Italian emphasis. Mataio is one of those chefs who “gets us”:  He has traveled widely in Italy, and has become a dear friend of our producer, Trampetti Extra Virgin Olive Oil. His staff puts Controne Hot Pepper on everything! And, he truly appreciates how the use of quality ingredients is fundamental to quality Italian dishes.

For some time now Mataio and Ilyse have schemed to collaborate on recipe development and to host a cooking event. Thus we were thrilled when Mataio finally pulled up to the Ritrovo Office and Warehouse in his Sprinter 2500, fully loaded to prepare a beyond belief lunch for our friends and staff.

The dishes featured at the event originated through those conversations and correspondences between Ilyse and Mataio, and these new recipes embody both Ritrovo and Ciao Thyme's appreciation for the principals of real Italian food.
 
Click on the photos below to view the recipes. Try them for yourself, and for your next gathering. The ingredients are few in number and the dishes bold in flavor!

Hosting an event in Whatcom County soon? Ciao Thyme offers a variety of event and meal services. Check out www.ciaothyme.com for more information.
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Kale Salad with Organic Apple Balsamic Vinaigrette
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Pear Tartlett
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Tartufo Tagliolini
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Ciao Thyme Cafe - Bellingham
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Pine Nut Crusted Halibut with Saffron Carrot Puree
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Zabajone al Moscato Tiramisu