Summer days beckon us toward the freezer, where chilly treats await to satisfy.
In Italy, it is almost a national pastime to seek out the pleasures of luscious, creamy gelato or a hand-held frozen treat on an after dinner stroll.
Gelateria are in every quartiere and stay open quite late.
So what is gelato? It's Italian ice cream. Gelato is typically lower in fat and sugar than American ice creams, though by no means lacking in flavor. On the contrary, with the addition of the finest ingredients such as fresh chopped fruits, biscuits, nuts and other sweets, gelato will satisfy any sweet tooth.
The variation of gelato made without the addition of dairy is called sorbetto. And yes, pesca is my favorite. I am a Georgia peach, after all.
Friendly rivalry exists between the gelateria and each is known for its own special, artisinal and very secret recipe.
No trip to Italy can be considered complete without at least one silken scoop of this outrageous treat!
Even Clara, the honorary member of the Dunwoody Woman's Club in Dunwoody, Georgia, loves her gelato!