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Welcome foodies; here’s your guide to all things delicious around the beautiful country of Italy. We have put together a guide to each region, the low down on meals and some fast facts that will help prepare you for what will be an amazing trip in what is arguably the food capital of the world.
Region specialities:
- Tuscany: Legumes and grains are famous in the Tuscan region and of course wine! Chianti is one of the most famous wines of Tuscany but there are many fakes, so to ensure you are getting the real deal look for the black rooster on the label.
- Lombardy: Lombardy is the northern region and is known for a mean risotto and delicious stuffed pastas including ravioli. Closer to Milan you might find a traditional dish called Risotto alla Milanese which consists of cheese, saffron, bone marrow and meat stock.
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- Naples: Naples is of course famous for its pizza, particularly pizza napoletana, but it’s also worth trying the Caprese salad for a lighter meal or the spaghetti alle vongole if you’re feeling a little more hungry.
- Venice: Cicchetti are smaller snacks you will find in Venice, similar to the Spanish alternative tapas. Pair your cicchetti with a spritz made from prosecco and a dash of liqueur.
- Liguria: Liguria, or as you might know it – the Italian Riviera is, most popular for pesto, they even have their own traditional recipe. Pesto is often served with potatoes, green beans and pasta.
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- Sicily: Sicily is the best place to get yourself some cannoli which is known world wide but we will let you in on a little secret, Sicily is also a great place for some tasty seafood and pasta.
What to expect for your meal:
- Antipasti: This will be the first course of your meal and is usually a shared plate with small portions for the table. You might find cheese, olives, cured meats and sausages on an antipasti platter.
- Primo: Primo follows the antipasti, and is when you might be eating pasta or a risotto.
- Secondo: Secondo is your main course where you would feast on meat, chicken or fish.
- Dolce: Last but certainly not least is dessert which is always served with coffee.
Image via The Column
Fast facts:
- When visiting Italy do not eat while you walk, it’s considered disrespectful (unless you are eating gelato). The Italians are lovers of their food and the traditional belief is that if someone has spent time making you a nice meal it’s simply rude to not sit down and enjoy it.
- I’m sure you might have heard or seen the word ‘aperitivo’ on travel websites or as part of any tours and activities you might be looking at. Aperitivo is Italian for pre-dinner drinks and is often served with a small snack. For a traditional aperitivo you might try a Campari or Aperol Spritz.
- There are over 600 types of pasta, see how many you can try!
Now go on, live la dolce vita!
Ms Zigzag says: I am hungry! I love the history, tradition and of course flavour and community that surrounds Italian eating and cuisine. How can I transport myself there now? Thanks Bec for sharing this taste of Italy with us today.
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