What I Ate in One Year

1. Food is More Than Sustenance: It's Memory and Connection

Home-cooked food strengthens our bonds when we are together, keeps us connected when we are apart, and sustains the memory of us when we have passed away.

Food as a time capsule. Food transcends its basic function of providing nourishment; it serves as a powerful trigger for memories, emotions, and connections to people and places. Certain dishes evoke specific moments in time, transporting us back to childhood meals, family gatherings, or travels abroad.

Family traditions. The author's experiences highlight how food traditions are passed down through generations, solidifying family bonds and preserving cultural heritage. His mother's cooking, in particular, represents a tangible link to his past, connecting him to his Italian roots and the shared experiences of his family.

Beyond the plate. Food becomes a symbol of love, care, and belonging. The act of sharing a meal creates a sense of community and strengthens relationships, fostering a shared experience that transcends mere sustenance. It's about the stories told, the laughter shared, and the connections forged around the table.

2. The Joy of Cooking: A Grounding and Creative Act

I find it grounding. After the sauce has cooked for even just a few minutes, the new space smells more like a home.

Cooking as therapy. The author finds solace and peace in the act of cooking, viewing it as a creative outlet and a way to de-stress. The repetitive motions, the sensory experiences, and the tangible results provide a sense of control and accomplishment.

Creating a home. Cooking transforms a space into a home. Whether it's a hotel room, a rented apartment, or a new house, the aroma of simmering sauces and baking bread creates a sense of familiarity and comfort, making the unfamiliar feel more welcoming.

Beyond the recipe. Cooking is not just about following instructions; it's about experimentation, improvisation, and personal expression. The author's willingness to adapt recipes, try new ingredients, and trust his instincts reflects the creative spirit that infuses his approach to food.

3. Travel as Culinary Exploration: Discovering Culture Through Food

Tell me what you eat, and I will tell you who you are.

Food as a cultural lens. The author's travels are not just about seeing new places; they're about experiencing different cultures through their cuisine. Each meal becomes an opportunity to learn about local traditions, ingredients, and culinary techniques.

Beyond the tourist trail. The author seeks out authentic culinary experiences, venturing beyond the tourist traps to discover hidden gems and local favorites. He values the stories behind the food, the people who make it, and the history that shapes it.

A global palate. From the bustling markets of Rome to the cozy pubs of Ireland, the author embraces the diversity of culinary traditions around the world. He appreciates the unique flavors, textures, and aromas that define each region, recognizing food as a powerful expression of cultural identity.

4. The Importance of Sharing Meals: Building Bonds and Community

Sharing food is one of the purest human acts.

The communal table. The author emphasizes the importance of sharing meals with family, friends, and even strangers. The act of breaking bread together fosters a sense of connection, strengthens relationships, and creates lasting memories.

Beyond the individual. Sharing a meal is about more than just satisfying individual hunger; it's about participating in a shared experience, engaging in conversation, and building a sense of community. The table becomes a gathering place where people come together to connect, celebrate, and support one another.

The power of hospitality. The author's generosity in hosting dinner parties and sharing his culinary creations reflects his belief in the power of hospitality. Opening one's home and sharing a meal is a way of expressing love, care, and appreciation for others.

5. Finding Pleasure in Simplicity: The Beauty of Basic Ingredients

Soup is life in a pot.

Elevating the everyday. The author finds beauty and satisfaction in simple ingredients and basic dishes. He appreciates the power of a perfectly cooked pasta, a flavorful soup, or a well-made sandwich to provide comfort and nourishment.

The art of minimalism. Simplicity in cooking is not about lacking creativity; it's about focusing on the essential elements and allowing the quality of the ingredients to shine. By using fresh, seasonal produce and simple techniques, the author creates dishes that are both delicious and satisfying.

Beyond the complexity. In a world that often celebrates culinary innovation and elaborate creations, the author reminds us of the value of simplicity. Sometimes, the most satisfying meals are the ones that are made with love, care, and a few basic ingredients.

6. The Dichotomy of the Actor's Life: Balancing Work and Family

The hardest part of being an actor is finding that family/work balance.

The peripatetic life. The author candidly discusses the challenges of balancing a demanding acting career with the responsibilities of family life. The constant travel, long hours, and unpredictable schedules make it difficult to maintain a sense of normalcy and consistency.

Making sacrifices. The author prioritizes his family, often flying back and forth between filming locations to spend time with his children. He recognizes the importance of being present in their lives, even if it means sacrificing sleep and personal time.

Finding joy in the chaos. Despite the challenges, the author finds joy in the moments he shares with his family. He cherishes the simple routines, the shared meals, and the everyday moments that make up the fabric of family life.

7. Aging, Reflection, and the Ever-Present Awareness of Mortality

The slower one becomes, the faster time moves.

Time's relentless march. The author reflects on the passage of time, acknowledging the increasing awareness of mortality that comes with age. He grapples with the feeling that time is slipping away, prompting him to cherish each moment and prioritize what truly matters.

The weight of memories. The author's reflections are often tinged with nostalgia, as he revisits past experiences and remembers loved ones who are no longer with him. These memories serve as a reminder of the preciousness of life and the importance of cherishing relationships.

Finding meaning in the present. Despite the awareness of mortality, the author remains engaged in life, finding joy in his work, his family, and his culinary pursuits. He embraces the present moment, recognizing that it is the only one we truly have.

8. The Enduring Power of Home Cooking: Tradition and Love on a Plate

All those wonderful dishes that date back countless generations, born of poverty, still endure in the digital age, nourishing bodies young and old and solidifying the connections between them.

A legacy of flavor. The author emphasizes the importance of preserving culinary traditions and passing them down to future generations. Home-cooked meals represent a tangible link to the past, connecting us to our ancestors and the shared experiences of our families.

From scarcity to sustenance. Many of the dishes the author describes are rooted in poverty, born out of the need to make the most of limited resources. These humble recipes, often featuring simple ingredients and resourceful techniques, have endured for generations, providing nourishment and comfort to countless families.

More than just a meal. Home cooking is an act of love, a way of expressing care and affection for those we feed. The time and effort invested in preparing a meal, the careful selection of ingredients, and the thoughtful presentation all convey a message of love and connection.

9. The Art of the Meal: From Preparation to Shared Experience

To me soup may be the greatest culinary invention.

A holistic approach. The author's appreciation for food extends beyond the act of eating; he values the entire process, from planning the menu to sourcing the ingredients to preparing the meal. Each step is an opportunity for creativity, connection, and mindfulness.

The importance of quality. The author emphasizes the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients. He seeks out local farmers' markets, specialty shops, and trusted purveyors to ensure that his meals are made with the best possible components.

Beyond the recipe. While the author appreciates the technical aspects of cooking, he also recognizes the importance of intuition, improvisation, and personal expression. He encourages readers to experiment, trust their instincts, and make each dish their own.

10. The Impermanence of Taste: A Constant Evolution of Palate and Preference

I do worry that as often happens, the next attempt will be overthought and won’t turn out as well.

A journey of discovery. The author acknowledges that taste is not static; it's a constantly evolving landscape shaped by experiences, memories, and personal preferences. He embraces the ongoing journey of culinary exploration, always seeking new flavors, textures, and techniques.

The elusive perfect dish. The author recognizes that the pursuit of culinary perfection is often a futile one. A dish that tastes amazing one day may not be as satisfying the next, due to changes in mood, environment, or even the ingredients themselves.

Embracing change. The author accepts the impermanence of taste, recognizing that culinary preferences are subject to change and evolution. He remains open to new experiences, willing to try new things, and always eager to discover the next great flavor.

Last updated: April 13, 2025