Beyond Spaghetti: What You Really Must Experience in Italy

When someone mentions the term “Italian food,” you mind may immediately jump to pizza, spaghetti, or fettuccini alfredo, but the truth is that Italy’s palate is much more diverse, rich, and delicious than these dishes alone. Italy’s fare is diverse depending on the territory and full of a rich array of flavors you will probably not experience elsewhere.

When you visit Italy, expect to enjoy some of the stereotypical comfort foods, but also come prepared to take some chances and experience dishes you’ve never tried before.

Forget the low-carb diet and opt for delicious bread

If you’re on a low-carb diet, it’s time to make an exception. Italy’s bread are some of the finest in the world, and you don’t want to miss this soft and fresh food while you’re touring Italy. A nightly ritual of bread and wine is a fantastic way to end the day, and in turn will bring comfort to your mind and your stomach. Have your bread with some oil and vinegar, and enjoy pastries and sweet rolls with your coffee for breakfast.

Seasonal seafood is at your beck and call

Even if you don’t consider yourself a seafood lover, it’s time to step out of your comfort zone and experience some of the delicious seafood Italy has to offer. Fish, prawns, clams, mussels – all are fresh and gently seasoned with just the right flavors to convince even the pickiest eater that Italy is much more than pasta. Simple meals packed with delicious flavor set Italy’s seafood apart from all the rest. And don’t forget the side dishes. The perfect side dish will accent any entrée with just the right touch. Ask your server for recommendations or better yet learn how to prepare such a dish during a cooking holiday in Tuscany

Indulge in Italian drinks

Two drinks always make a day better – wonderfully rich, dark coffee in the morning, and wine with dinner in the evening. Indulge in both of these luxurious beverages on your vacation, and you may just want to make this ritual an element of your everyday life back home as well. Good coffee and good wine are both made for slow sipping and enjoying the array of flavors that cover your tongue. Give yourself that time to relax while enjoying leisurely meals or even stopping for an afternoon coffee for a little rest and pick-me-up. Pair wine with bread, cheese, dessert, or dinner entrees. Coffee is also a perfect companion to pastries and desserts. Don’t miss these Italian delicacies!