Italian Cuisine

Italian cuisine has been emulated the world over, not just by Italians living abroad but by natives of other countries who love the fresh, varied and delicious flavours of traditional Italian dishes. An Italian restaurant is a welcome sight to many weary city-travellers who know they'll find nutritious, homely food and a warm welcome inside.

Regional & Seasonal Dishes

Italian food is highly traditional and seasonal, with recipes passed down through the generations and ingredients dependent on the seasons of the year. Spaghetti for example has been traced back to the 12th century. Natural ingredients are an absolute must, with all of Nature's bounty combining to make a single, wonderful dish. Pasta of course is a staple of the Italian diet, but vegetables and pulses also form the basis of many recipes.

Fresh fish, meat and cheese are added to the dish, dependent on the region it comes from. Coastal areas of Italy excel in seafood, whereas other regions are famous for their cured meats or aromatic cheeses.

This variety reflects the humble origins of Italian cuisine. Villagers and peasant farmers would have cooked with the ingredients available - these were both local and seasonal. Meats were cured to store them through the winter - this was a very important task and the wonderful flavours we have today are testament to the skill of ordinary Italians.

Simple Is Best

Simple ingredients are central to Italian dishes - simple because poor villagers could afford nothing better. Nevertheless, these dishes have become classics around the world. The secret of Italian success is the care with which food is prepared, the criteria by which ingredients are selected, and the passion of Italian chefs to raise humble dishes to world-class standards. Simple, nutritious fare often proves more popular than its more flamboyant rivals.

A Traditional Meal

Italian meals traditionally have several courses, beginning with a simple aperitif to freshen the palate. Hot or cold 'antipasto' are then served; appetisers that make the mouth water. A 'first course' consists of pasta, risotto or soup, and the 'main course' is more substantial, including fish or meat.

Vegetables are normally served on the side, and when you've had your fill the meal moves onto the 'first dessert', cheese and fruits, followed by the 'second dessert' of sweet cakes or biscuits. Coffee follows on, and finally a fine liqueur is served to aid digestion of this mammoth meal!

Mealtimes for Italians are less about eating and more about getting together with family and friends. It's not that Italians take their cuisine for granted - dinner in an Italian home will always be delicious - but the passion with which Italians enjoy life and each other's company is reflected in their unhurried meals. Sit down at an Italian table to savour the food, the company, and the atmosphere of this wonderful country.