What's cooking: Russell Pound

Russell Pound from a Touch of Italy. Picture / Carolyn Robertson

Russell Pound is the sales director for Italian food and wine importer A Touch of Italy. Aside from a stint in the car business, he's always been involved in the food industry from running restaurants to supplying them.

What's the best thing about your job?

Having the opportunity to travel is certainly a bonus but just being able to work alongside those in the industry who we're supplying is rewarding. It's all about meeting the needs of your customers.

Your idea of the perfect meal?

Depending on the moment, a good pizza at Tonino's Pizzeria at Mission Bay with the kids is always fun. The pizzas are great and if with friends, a good glass of wine and tapas.

Who's your food idol?

No real food idol. There are many foodies out there with great ideas. I enjoy learning from them all, no matter what their style of cuisine.

Your favourite drink?

A good red wine but it doesn't have to be expensive and, of course, it would have to come from Italy. Tommasi merlot is my favourite.

What do you eat when you can't be bothered cooking?

Still love a good pizza made well and not one of those with a thick base. Another option is always a curry.

What do you always have in your fridge?

Fresh vegetables - something my daughter has encouraged me to do. They're always a good starting point to any meal.

What do you think the most over-rated ingredient is?

Saffron. I know a lot of people enjoy using it. Maybe I've just not been able to appreciate its value.

What cookbook are you reading at the moment?

I tend to skim through a lot of material and enjoy going through the newspapers for weekly features such as Viva.

Is there anything you wouldn't eat?

I've tried a lot of unusual foods in this job, both locally and overseas. Having them once is sometimes enough but I can never get over some of the things they come up with in Fear Factor. Leave the live ones alone.