Italian cuisine as a national cuisine known today has evolved from centuries of social and political change. Its roots can be traced back to 4th century BC through to the introduction of notable chefs such as Maestro Martino who cooked an elegant refined Italian cuisine. The cuisine significantly changed with discovery of the New World helped shape much of what is known as Italian cuisine today with introduction of items as potatoes, tomatoes, bell pepper and maize, which are all central parts of the cuisine but were not introduced in scale until the 18th century.Ingredients and dishes vary by region. There are many significant regional dishes that have become both national and regional. Many dishes that were once regional, however, have proliferated in different variations across the country in the present day. Cheese and wine are also a major part of the cuisine, playing different roles both regionally and nationally with their many variations and Denominazione di origine controllata (DOC) (regulated appellation) laws. Coffee, and more specifically espresso has become highly important to the cultural cuisine of Italy.

For those interested in the Pittsburgh Steelers and their history, there's an upcoming book by Art Rooney Jr. entitled "Ruanaidh" -- that's Rooney in Gaelic -- which is due out later this month. A memoir that tells all the inner workings behind the scenes of the famous football family and dynasty.

Today is Shrove Tuesday, also known as Pancake day in the UK. All over the country, children inexpertly cook the egg/milk/flour mixture and enjoy eating with sugar and lemon juice or trying to get them stuck to the ceiling whilst tossing. Where did this tradition come from?

Herbs are an essential part of cooking throughout history, and nowadays with year-round availability of many herbs, cooking with herbs is a creative way to make your favorite dishes stand out.

Because they are so very tasty.. 5th of February 2008 is pancake day - make sure to celebrate it by cooking up a batch of pancakes, and trying some new toppings. Visit http://www.welovepancakes.com for recipe ideas and a breif history on how pancakes came to be so popular Music

Are you worried about your cholesterol levels or do you have a family history of high cholesterol? If so then you should already be paying close attention to your diet and lifestyle. One of the most simple ways that you can keep your cholesterol in check is by changing the way you cook your food.