Saturday Night Pasta - An interview with Lizzie Hewson
Lifelong food obsessive, Lizzie Hewson, was studying her Masters in Food Culture & Communication at the University of Gastronomic Science in Piedmont, Italy when she caught the pasta bug.
Following a particularly troubling bout of anxiety, Lizzie created a weekly ritual that would ground her and bring the racing thoughts back to earth. This was the beginning of Saturday Night Pasta.
An ode to a simpler and more humble approach to life. Slowing down, cooking simple healthy food and not letting the madness of the world throw you around.
Lizzie kindly gave up a Saturday evening to sit down and answer some of our probing questions. We hope you enjoy!
We know small business is hard. Is there an inception story to your brand? What got you started or gave you the push to start your own enterprise?
I’ve always wanted to create and build my own brand. I wasn’t sure what that would be, but as Saturday Night Pasta grew, I saw an opportunity to turn my self-care ritual into a product people could also enjoy at home. For those who find comfort in convenience.
Saturday Night Pasta is therapy for the modern-day food lover, teaching self-care through the humble act of making and most importantly, eating pasta. First came a self-care ritual, then a book, followed by a range of Australian-made pasta tools. Self-care is for everyone, and yet can be entirely different for us all. Whilst some of us delight in the act of making pasta from scratch, others find equal rapture in ripping open a packet of pasta and popping open a lid of pasta sauce, knowing a delicious, stress-free dinner is mere moments away.
Who or what do you draw inspiration from?
It can be from anywhere – restaurants, recipes, people, places but ingredients are a big part of my inspiration.
Other than yourself of course, who is your favourite artisan producer here in Australia? How come?
There are so many amazing producers and food brands out there – from Quimby’s chilli honey to all the amazing things from Chotto Motto and Hotluck (love their kimchi hot sauce) to Oomite and LP’s. And don’t get me started on all the amazing cheese producers.
We know Australia is the best place on earth, but what makes it so special to you? What’s your favourite thing about Australia?
The Australian bush and countryside. I love being out in the country and enjoying the sounds, smells and environment that makes Australia so unique.
Which of your products are your favourite to gift to others or share with friends around the table?
I have to say my dirty martini sauce with my dried Pipette. It’s the best standby dinner.