Delizioso.
      That's the word to describe Italian Day at the Statesboro Mainstreet Farmers Market today. The first of a four-week "Market Around the World" event will offer shoppers gourmet cooking demonstrations and free samples of fresh, local produce, meats and more served with an Italian accent. The following weeks will feature Thai, Mexican and Greek food and themes.
      Chef Franco Marra from Frali Gourmet will prepare Italian favorites for market-goers. Shoppers can learn some of the tasty tricks of the Savannah maker of all-natural pastas, sauces and marinated vegetables.
      Also, Hunter Cattle will serve Italian burgers at the Garden Table Cafe. Other vendors will offer Italian recipes featuring in-season produce, meats and dairy.
      The weekly canning demo, part of the Market's "Discover You Can" program, will feature an Italian favorite - tomatoes.
      All the regular Market vendors will be present, offering fresh local meats, dairy, honey and jams, crafts, plants and produce. In season this week are peaches, melons, eggplant, squash, peppers, tomatoes and okra.
       "The Market is for people who love great food and are looking for new recipes and food experiences," said Debra Chester, one of the Market founders. "That's what ‘Market Around the World' is all about -- fresh ideas with fresh, local food."
      Taste of Thailand is the theme for Saturday, July 16, when Ryan Blalock and Chef Calvin Phan of Coconuts Restaurant will headline the event and prepare Thai recipes. July 23 is Taste of Mexico and will include cooking demonstrations with Market-fresh ingredients and a salsa canning demonstration, as well as salsa dancing and Variedad Musical performing on the Main Stage.
      On July 30, the Market goes Greek with more chef demonstrations, recipes and entertainment.
      The Statesboro Main Street Market is held weekly from 9 to 12:30 in the Downtown Sea Island Bank parking lot. It was created in 2008.