Italy attracts 74.7 million visitors each year due to the promise of picturesque landscapes and historical shabby-chic cities just a short flight away. But a trip to Italy wouldn’t be complete without tasting authentic Italian food.
With so many gelato flavours and pasta dishes to try, it can be hard to decide what to devour next. To make sure you make the most of your tour of Italy, we’ve outlined the best culinary delights below.
Northern Italy
In Northern Italy, the food is delicate and refined – a far cry from heavy pasta dishes and buttery focaccia. In the Lombardy region, particularly Milan, risotto reigns supreme. Risotto alla Milanese (a risotto infused with saffron) uses butter instead of olive oil, which is typical of Northern Italy, creating a rich flavour. Traditionally beef marrow is used to add a subtle richness to the dish. It’s unlike any risotto you’ve had before, so it’s worth a try.
In Veneto, the food is influenced by its proximity to the Adriatic Sea. As you’d expect, you’ll find an abundance of seafood dishes and delicate wines to match. While you’re in the region, be sure to sample Sarde in Saor—sweet and sour sardines marinated with onions, vinegar, and raisins. If that’s not to your taste, make sure you try the squid ink risotto or a traditional tiramisu!
Budding connoisseurs should take a moment to sample the Prosecco wines of the region. Veneto is the birthplace of the popular sparkling wine, with over nine provinces dedicated to white wine production.
Central Italy
In Tuscany, cuisine is uncomplicated. Favouring simplicity and fresh ingredients over elaborate dishes, here you’ll find the food comforting and hearty. Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a thick-cut T-bone steak, is char-grilled to perfection, while rustic Panzanella salad combines stale bread with ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, and basil. Tuscan wines like Chianti and the modern “Super Tuscans” pair perfectly with these dishes, making every mealtime a delight.
In Emilia-Romagna – the mecca of Italian cuisine – you’ll find the world-famous dishes Tagliatelle al Ragù (or as we call it, Bolognese!) and lasagna.
Southern Italy
Here you’ll find a mix of hearty Italian dishes made with fresh Mediterranean seafood. In Naples, the birthplace of the beloved Pizza Napoletana, you should take the opportunity to sample this classic dish. With its thin, wood-fired crust and simple flavours, you’ll be blown away from the first bite to the last.
Seafood fans should try Spaghetti alla Puttanesca. This traditional pasta dish is made with anchovies, capers, and olives – so it packs a real punch.
Travelling further along the Amalfi Coast, you’ll find towns like Sorrento. Here they grow lemons and make fresh, zesty limoncello.
Finally, there’s Sicily. With Arab, Greek and Spanish Influences, the food is anything but boring. The home of Arancini (fried rice balls), Caponata (sweet and sour aubergine salad), and Cannoli (crispy pastry filled with sweet ricotta), be sure to dedicate a few days to sample everything before you go home. Luckily, Sicily is one of the more affordable destinations, so it’s a good option if you’re on a budget.
If you’re looking for wine to go with your meal, you can’t go wrong with a classic Sicilian wine like Nero d’Avola to bring out the bold flavours in each dish.
So, pack your bags – it’s time to eat and drink your way around Italy.
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