Norm and I have spent a wonderful weekend in Sedona celebrating his cousin Roger Boyd’s wedding to Rita E. Arras. Sedona is certainly a wonderful place for a wedding and bringing 40 diverse people together was fantastic–rock musicians to relatives and we all enjoyed a beautiful day.

From the ceremony at the Church of the Red Rocks to the nice reception at Cucina Rustica.

Cucina Rustica has a diverse, creative menu. We started out with Calamari Fritti, Roman style fried calamari with a chipotle aioli and warmed marinara sauce and Rustica Wine Lovers Platter which was a plate of imported serrano ham, manchego cheese, cerignola olives and grilled focaccia. This was followed by a delicious insalata of house mixed greens with Cucina Rustica vinaigrette and slivered almonds.

Our entrate was a choice of Tortellini Spinaci, cheese filled tortellini with fresh spinach in a light lemon parmesan cream sauce; Piatti Lisetti, chicken breasts & pawns sauteed with spinach, married in a lemon and white wine-butter sauce served with potatoes and verdura giornata; or Maiale Ai Ferri, port tenderloin marinated and grilled, served with a carmelized red onion confit, potatoes and verdura giornata.

This was followed by a tiramisu wedding cake which we all enjoyed thoroughly.

As we were leaving a wine tasting dinner was just starting on the gorgeous patio with the red rock mountain in the background. The atmosphere inside and outside are equally impressive. This along with its diverse menu makes it a worthwhile experience. Lisa Dahl & Andrea Diluca, Executive Chef/Owners have done a great job.

Check out, Cucina Rustica, Tequa Plaza, 7000 Highway 179, Suite 126A, Sedona, AZ 86351.928 284-3010.

Maralyn D. Hill
Books By Hills

Maralyn
Author: Maralyn

Maralyn Dennis Hill, The Epicurean Explorer, is president emeritus of International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association, member of Society of American Travel Writers, and Society of Professional Journalists. She is Executive Editor of Luxe Beat Magazine and contributes to other publications. She also speaks and is a guest on many shows. The majority of Maralyn’s articles are now geared to the luxury market, spas, corporate retreats, business events, and culinary tourism, from simple to gourmet. Maralyn’s description of herself: I was born to travel and tell the tale. I’m energized by different cultures in every aspect of their lives, from food, wine, and destination, to how they conduct business. Travel represents a continual geography lesson.