Hi everyone! I've arrived back to the States safe and sound. The trip was absolutely amazing. I tasted delicious food and visited many inspiring and beautiful places. Following my visit to Tenuta Monacelle (I told you all about my trip here in last week's blog) I traveled to one of the oldest ceramics producers in the world. Nicola Fasano has been making ceramics since 1623. They produce gorgeous products for some of the top retailers and shops throughout the world - and hopefully for one of my new projects here in New York that focuses on my Pugliese heritage.

The workshop is located in the Quartiere delle Ceramiche (Pottery District) of Grottaglie. This region has an abundance of clay soil, making it a natural place to create pottery. Upon arriving at Nicola Fasano, I was instantly greeted by current owner Franco Fasano (the company has been in the family for over 300 years). I was lucky enough to tour the facilities with him, and catch a glimpse of the process involved in creating the ceramics.

Of course my day would not be complete without a delicious meal. I had the most amazing dish of seafood with homemade cavatelli and a white fava bean puree that I have ever tasted! I've died and gone to pasta heaven, AGAIN!

--Donatella

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