Iconic Dishes
There are dishes that are staples and truly iconic in Italian Cuisine. You cannot talk about Italian cuisine without thinking about these foods.
Pasta
When you mention eating Italian the first thing that comes to mind is Pasta. Pasta is the most iconic of foods in Italian cuisine. Pasta comes in all shapes and forms and the numerous sauces you can add to each different pasta makes your selection endless. Some of my favorite pastas include Spaghetti Carbonara (a rich sauce made with cream, eggs, cheese, cured bacon, salt and pepper), Seafood linguine, Pesto, marinara and Bolognese. Lasagna is also an all-time favorite. Some traditional pastas include Spaghetti, Fettuccini, Penne, Orecchiette, Rigatoni, Manicotti, Rotini, Bow ties…the list is endless!
Pizza
Pizza is another food that needs no introduction…everyone has a favorite pizza and we love to get creative but keeping it simple is what Italians do best with their Pizza Margherita, a combination of tomato sauce, mozzarella and basil. A crunchy dough with a tangy tomato sauce with garlic, fresh basil and a creamy mozzarella fresh cheese.
Antipasto
Italian cuisine is not just pasta and pizza. Italians love their starters such as antipasto (a mix of cured meats, cheeses and pickled condiments) and Arancini (a fried rice ball which is unique to the region it is created in). Arancini take on different flavors from plain, cheese, tuna all the way up to peas and meat in the centers. The most famous arancini is the Sicilian rice ball with minced meat and peas in the center.
Dessert
The only way to end a great meal is with a great Italian dessert! Tiramisu is a favorite and is on most Italian menu’s… or maybe a nice refreshing Gelato.