Italian Cuisine

When we think of fine wine and cuisine, a country such as Italy is immediately associated. Often imitated, Italian food is one of the most favored cuisines in the world. It is surprising to many that the most flavorful Italian specialties are simply cooked to retain their original goodness and freshness. The secrets are in the fresh and healthy ingredients such as basil, olive oil and garlic and the inventiveness in preparation that produce these exquisite dishes that delight the most discriminating palate. Often a blend of the most basic ingredients is transformed into a triumph of taste from great care taken through the various stages of preparation.

Cooking styles differ however, dependent upon the region of the country. The north is more known for its rich and creamy dishes while the south boasts hot and spicy specialties. Throughout Italy, pasta dishes full of fresh vegetables are just as popular as the dishes flavored by exotic meats. Fine fresh fish is plentiful from one of the many seas around the peninsula and produce fantastic local seafood specialties. Choice of cheeses and amazing desserts are endless. The champion of Italian dining however, is the first course, in its many varieties including soups, pasta dry or in broth, risottos and timbales.

Italy offers a wide variety of dining styles to suit the mood of the outing. The ristoranti is the most formal dining setting that is often more expensive and run by generations of one family. The trattoria and osteria are less formal but still serve local specialties. The panineria is a sandwich bar that provides quick service and of course one can't forget the pizzeria that serves more than the world famous pizza pie. A typical Italian breakfast includes a cappuccino or espresso and a brioche (sweet pastry). Lunch or pranzo is usually the largest meal of the day and consists of an antipasto, a pasta, rice or soup, meat or fish, vegetable or salad and fresh fruit. However, dinner or cena is fast becoming the main meal of the day in industrialized cities and features a menu similar to pranzo.

Additional information and recipes can be found at these websites:

Italianvillas.com

Recipes from the Regions of Italy

Italian Food

Italian Food Net

Italianfood.com