Welcome, I’m Maria Paulina! I’m here to share with you my love and passion for Mediterranean cooking and family. I currently own a catering business just outside of Chicago called The Charcuterie Board. Several years ago, Through hard work and a dream I also created a Gelato Food truck. With her brought so much joy and fun to the Chicagoland area and our communities because of her adventures! The lessons I learned have brought me full circle to share Vita Rustica with you.
My main focus is on The Mediterranean principles and way of life. It is a part of me and I’m here to help you cook with fresh, whole food ingredients made simple. This will guide you to leading a healthy and delicious lifestyle for you, your family, and friends. With emphasis on Italian modern and generational cooking. From time to time, I enjoy infusing nearby Mediterranean flavors from other countries. You will see this influence in some of my dishes.
Influenced profoundly by my Italian grandmother, who was born in a small town along the Adriatic Sea, in the Puglia region. My Nonna Maria taught me “the beauty is in the details.” As a young girl, She spoke often and in great deal of her beloved Italy, before she crossed the Atlantic on a boat with her family to settle in Chicago. I listened Intently all my childhood as she wove two worlds together for me like a fine tapestry. Because of her, I am here creating this for you today. My hope is to do my best to connect two worlds up for you as she did for me so many years ago. I have been fortunate to have spent many summers all over Italy, especially Bologna, Tuscany, Puglia and Sicily which has allowed me to diversify my cooking style.
I am interested in sharing the art of Italian cooking with you. I’d like to help you translate it into your everyday cooking and lifestyle here in America. The essence of Italy is all around us and you will find it in the details, as my grandmother taught me oh so many years ago. Vita Rustica begins with a desire to pass it on to you and have you fall in love with Mediterranean cooking. Bringing confidence in preparing a meal all while learning authentic Italian recipes from the past and present. I will show you current trends with some twists and classic adaptations of many favorites, then share the beauty and art of gathering your family and friends around the table.
With Love, Maria Paulina
If you would like to contact me,I would love to hear from you with any questions! Just fill out the form below and I will get back to you very soon!
