Tracina's Gourmet Specialties

 In these cold, dark winter months, there are few things more comforting than a good hearty meal at an old Italian place like Mario's or Roma Café. But unless you're Monica Conyers, eating out can get expensive. And since most of us don't have little Italian grandmothers in our kitchens rolling out fresh dough, Italian Night at home generally consists of breaking some Barilla into a pot of water and pouring on a jar of Prego. Not exactly delizioso.

Fortunately, Tracina's Gourmet Specialties has made it their mission to change all that. 

Started by a husband and wife using old family recipes, the Clinton Township-based company offers nine varieties of gnocchi and a marinara sauce at several area grocery stores. The gnocchi come filled with everything from plain ricotta to pumpkin to black truffles, and can go from freezer to plate in less than five minutes. You can tell by look and by taste that each gnocchi was hand made using really good ingredients. Tracina's uses no additives or preservatives and utilizes locally sourced, organic ingredients whenever possible.

You can sample some gnocchi for yourself at Tracina's booths at Eastern Market and the Royal Oak Farmers Market. To find retail or restaurant locations, visit tracinas.com