Nadia Caterina Munno, known as the Pasta Queen, has gained a massive following with her authentic Italian recipes and culinary wisdom, such as not to have cocktails with dinner, as wine pairs better with meals. Munno, originally from Lazio, has become a best-selling author with her cookbook “A Just Gorgeous Italian Cookbook” and has recently released a second book titled “The Pasta Queen: The Art of Italian Cooking”. She also stars in a self-titled series on Amazon Prime Video that showcases her cooking tutorials and explores various regions of Italy.
Munno’s journey to culinary stardom began on TikTok, where her videos showcasing her passion for Italian cuisine quickly gained a large following. One of her favorite dishes is spaghetti carbonara, a quintessential Roman dish that she is extremely passionate about. Munno emphasizes the importance of using guanciale, a type of cured pork cheek, in authentic carbonara, as well as avoiding adding cream to the dish, a common mistake made in Italian American cooking. She also points out cardinal sins such as not putting cheese on fish or pasta, sticking to traditional ingredients in dishes like Cacio e Pepe, and never serving shrimp or chicken with fettuccine alfredo.
During a visit to Patsy’s Italian Restaurant in Midtown, Munno shared her expertise on Italian-American culture and cuisine. She explained the difference between gravy and sauce, noting that gravy is typically served with roast meat, while sugo or salsa are terms for pasta sauces. She also highlighted the importance of not serving cappuccino after lunch, as it is considered a breakfast drink in Italy. Munno ordered Patsy’s puttanesca with linguine, praising the dish for its authentic ingredients and perfect al dente pasta.
Munno, who now resides in Florida with her husband Brook, has a deep appreciation for Italian Americans and their culture. She considers herself obsessed with them, as she was born into a family of pasta makers in Italy. Munno’s love for Italian cuisine is evident in her culinary creations and in her favorite New York City spots, where she enjoys visiting restaurants like Alma Gourmet, La Devozione, Ribalta, and Amo Seafood for delicious Italian meals. Her passion for Italian cooking shines through in her recipes, cooking tutorials, and television series, where she shares her knowledge and love for traditional Italian dishes.
Munno’s authenticity and dedication to preserving the traditions of Italian cuisine have earned her a devoted following and the admiration of celebrities like Kylie Jenner and Drew Barrymore. Her focus on using quality ingredients, following traditional methods, and respecting the cultural nuances of Italian cooking sets her apart as a true Pasta Queen. With her expanding empire, including cookbooks, a television series, and a strong social media presence, Munno continues to inspire and educate audiences on the art of Italian cooking and dining.
