Salvatore M   

New tutor

Move beyond the textbook. Speak Italian naturally.

What is your favorite word in your language and why?

It has to be 'Pizza'! Not just because it’s the ultimate global icon of Italy, but because it’s a fantastic teaching tool. Even though it's the most famous Italian word in the world, almost every foreigner mispronounces it by missing the double 'Z' sound (it's peet-tsah, not pee-zah!). I love it because it proves my teaching philosophy: we take everyday elements of Italian life and practice them until you sound like a true native.

What is your favorite dish from your hometown? If you no longer live there is there a good local restaurant that serves it?

My absolute favorite is 'I Baddotti di San Giuseppe', a dish exclusive to my hometown, Acate. They are traditional, mint-flavored rice balls cooked in a sweet tomato sauce. You won’t find them in standard Italian restaurants because they are a sacred local tradition, prepared once a year for the Feast of St. Joseph following recipes passed down by our grandparents. It's the ultimate comfort food for me, and a perfect example of the hidden culinary treasures of Sicily that I love to share with my students. Since it’s a strict home-cooking tradition, the best place to eat them is at a local family's house in Acate during the festival!

Besides the languages you teach, do you speak or study any other languages?

Yes! Besides teaching, I love learning languages myself. I speak English fluently, which helps me connect easily with my international students. I can also hold a conversation in Spanish, and I am currently studying French. Being a language student myself keeps me grounded and helps me understand exactly what my students are going through!

What are your interests outside of teaching at Strommen?

Outside of teaching, I have a few big passions. First is football (or soccer, as my American students say!)—I’ve loved it since I was a kid and follow every single aspect of the sport. I’m also a big history buff, with a special interest in contemporary history. And finally, I’m a huge Marvel fan; if I had to pick a favorite character, it would definitely be Loki. I love his wit and complexity!

What do you consider your hometown? Why do you love it?

My hometown is Acate, a small and charming town in southeastern Sicily. What I love most about it is the slow, authentic lifestyle and its rich history. It’s surrounded by beautiful countryside, vineyards, and is just a short drive from the Mediterranean sea. Living here means being connected to centuries-old traditions, incredible food, and a warm community where everyone knows your name. It’s the real, undiscovered Sicily, and I love bringing a piece of this atmosphere into my lessons.