Since the holidays are in full swing, I wanted to share this old family recipe, taught to us years ago when we visited our Italian relatives in Northern Italy. It was autumn and the walnut crop was at its peak. Our cousin, an accomplished cook, brought us into her kitchen and taught us this oh-so-easy creamy walnut sauce.

After our quick and delicious lunch, we took a marvelous hike on a trail which took us past the famous Dolomite mountains, delighting in the awe-inspiring scenery. What a perfect day that was and a travel moment we will not forget—not to speak of learning a new recipe that we served over the years we celebrated with family and friends. It is always a hit!

Our article on this old family recipe was recently published on USATODAY10BEST with step-by-step photos of how to make this sauce with nothing more than a blender—or a mortar and pestle, for those who really want to prepare it in the traditional style.

Note: the cream in this recipe can be replaced with non-dairy substitute as a vegan alternative.