Italian vacation without trying out mouth-watering local food is unimaginable. Food goes hand in hand with the their culture, must try Italian food like pizzas, steaks, fine cheeses, risotto, and pasta. On the other hand, I absolutely loved to taste the delicious t-bone Steak in Florence. You can find all the top-of-the-line, delicious dishes in central, north in southern Italy, as well as in southern Italy, especially in Naples, Sorrento, and the Amalfi coast.
Sorrento’s culinary scene boasts a treasure trove of delectable delights, with a particular focus on shellfish. Among the many beloved dishes, a standout favorite is spaghetti e Vongole (Spaghetti with Clams). This flavorful pasta dish showcases perfectly cooked spaghetti paired with succulent clams, creating a harmonious union of tastes. Additionally, you can delight in the delicate flavors of lightly floured calamari and fresh shrimps, which are expertly fried to golden perfection. From the enticing aroma to the satisfying flavors, Sorrento’s seafood offerings are a true culinary delight.
Most Popular Pasta in Italy
Pasta is probably one of the famous Italian dishes that is most favored in the world. And with pasta, you will have a variety of options to choose from. It can be saucy, creamy, vegetarian, or seafood, meat, and more. To cook carbonara, spaghetti, rigatoni, fettuccine, linguine, and bucatini you can use varity of pasta. Here is a list of pasta you definitely need to try in Italy to compare the taste you usually used to in your home country.
Spaghetti with garlic and oil
This traditional Roman dish includes spaghetti, olive oil, and garlic. I saw people adding red pepper for a kick to enhance the taste. Try it with extra virgin olive oil with red chili flack.
Lasagna Bolognese
Hailing from the Emilia region, Lasagna Bolognese is a quintessential Sunday lunch dish. With its roots deeply embedded in tradition, the original recipe boasts three essential ingredients: fresh egg pasta (Lasagna Noodles), flavorful Bolognese Sauce, and creamy bechamel.
Spaghetti with clams or Mussels
If you are traveling in the southern part of Italy, particularly the Sorrento and Amalfi coast, you must try some of their well-known seafood pasta. One of the popular dishes is Spaghetti with Clams. Spaghetti with Mussels or mixed seafood is equally delicious and most ordered dishes.
Ravioli alla Caprese
Ravioli alla Caprese are one of the quintessential dishes in Capri! Pillowy, ricotta-filled ravioli with a homemade tomato sauce and fresh basil. The shape of each Ravioli reminds you of the shape of the island of Capri. Simple ingredients to make delicious Ravioli are flour, hot water, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Mixed together then rolled into thin strips, on top sponnfuls of a mix of grated caciotta di Sorrento, eggs, parmesan and marjoram
Spaghetti With Mixed Seafood
Spaghetti (Linguine) with mixed seafood is famous mostly around coastal Italy very much popular for its mix of fresh seafood. Usually include clams, mussels, shrimp, and squid. You must try this flavourful seafood dish, especially if you are visiting Sorrento, Naples, Capri, and Amalfi coastal areas.
Photos of Pasta in Italy
Best Pizza in Italy
When we first visited Sorrento in 1988, most of our memories from that trip had already faded away, but I still remember the taste of pizza I had there. As you know in Italy there are a plenty to choose from, and keeping track is hard. So, this time before visiting Naples, Sorrento, and Amalfi Coast, I researched what type of pizza I should try for similar memories that will last even longer. Here is a list of them we tried.
Neapolitan pizza
As its name indicates, Neapolitan pizza originated in Naples, one of the most famous Italian pizzas. You can use the basic dough, Mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, fresh basil, and olive oil to make a thin, crusted pizza. Usually, they use San Marzano tomatoes or their unique taste. Or Pomodorino del Piennolo del Vesuvio (Piennolo tomato from Vesuvius), which grows on the volcanic plains around Mount Vesuvius.
Pizza Margherita
With a symphony of flavors adorning each slice, Pizza Margherita stands as a true culinary masterpiece. Steeped in tradition, this iconic dish boasts a combination of sliced mozzarella, tangy tomato sauce, aromatic basil, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, creating a palate-pleasing tribute to the vibrant colors of the Italian flag. Hailing from Naples, the birthplace of pizza, it has captured the hearts and taste buds of pizza enthusiasts around the globe. With its thicker, fluffy crust serving as a delightful foundation, Pizza Margherita has cemented its place as an enduring favorite, inviting all to partake in an authentic Italian gastronomic experience.
Romana Pizza
Pizza Romana is another thin crust pizza similar to Napoletana, and the edges are thin as well. The typical ingredients are flour, fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, yeast, and extra virgin olive oil. You will definitely like the authentic Roman pizza in Rome.
White Sauce Pizza
White pizza is also known as pizza bianca, a classic pizza made without tomato or marinara sauce and topped with garlic and white cheese. Mozzarella and Ricotta are the typical white pizza choices, and they often sprinkle either Parmesan or Pecorino Romano on top. Try it once for a great Italian experience.
Photos of Pizza in Italy
Italian Steak and Other Popular Dishes
Thinking about Florentine steak, it is one of the most popular dishes in Tuscan cuisine. So naturally, almost all Tuscan home cooks are Florentine steak experts, a tradition that traces back for generations. Traditionally the specific cut of meat from a typical cow is prepared in a particular way. It is by default served “rare,” but we don’t be afraid to ask for medium if you are not comfortable with their authentic style. On the other hand, if you are traveling to the north of the country near lake come, you absoulately need to try Risotto served with Perch fish and cuttlefish ink.
Florentine-Style Steak
While in Florence, our family of three tried one of the most delicious 4 lbs T-bone steaks with roast potatoes at L’Osteria di Giovanni that I indulged so much that I would like to go back there again just for the taste of it. I absolutely recommend every meat lover to go and try one of those best traditional well-known Florentin teaks.
Risotto with perch fish
Touring around the Lake Come and thinking about what to eat for an authentic local experience during your trip, then just don’t hesitate to try one of the beloved Lake Como Risotto with perch fish dishes, cooked with cuttlefish ink. The delicious creamy taste of Risotto made with short-grain rice and perch fish goes well with a dry white wine.
Fried Seafood (Fritto Misto)
Italian Fried Seafood is a mix of lightly salted seafood mixed with flour, traditionally served with french fries or fried vegetables. They use cod, shrimp, calamari rings, and sometimes local favorite anchovy fish for delicious taste. I would definitely recommend this dish to those visiting southern Italy.
Photos of Popular Dishes in Italy
Appetizers and Desserts to Try
To cook delicious Neapolitan dishes, simply use clams and spaghetti. This is a typical summer dish but extremely popular on Christmas Eve in Naples.
Caprese Salad
Caprese salad is famous in Italy. They are tomatoes, sliced mozzarella, and sweet basil spiced with salt and olive oil. What makes it so unique is the taste of the local fresh tomatoes they use, which are absolutely delicious.
Potato Gnocchi
There are different types of potato gnocchi; my favorite one is with shrimp and spinach cooked with garlic butter sauce. The creamy taste is delicious, and I highly recommend it.
Gnocchi alla Sorrentina
Gnocchi Sorrentina recipe comes from Sorrento, a beautiful town near the Amalfi coast. Traditionally, this dish is with delicious tomato sauce, mozzarella, and fresh basil.
Fried Calamari (Frittura di Calamari)
Frittura di Calamari is a popular food in Italy, especially during summer. It is best served when freshly caught squid is fried in high heat to maintain its natural meltingly tender. This is another reason southern Italy is the place for the best calamari.
Photos of Appetizers in Italy
Street Food You Shouldn’t Miss
If you are traveling through Italy, you will definitely need to try some authentic popular street food. Here is a few of them I have listed here that stands out among those I have tried.
Calzone with Cheese or Meat
Calzone, renowned for its traditional southern Italian cooking, is a delectable delight. The bread is skillfully folded into a half circle, generously filled with tantalizing ingredients such as ricotta cheese, savory meats, and more. Whether baked or fried to perfection, this culinary masterpiece has earned its rightful place as one of the most beloved street foods in Italy.
Fried Zucchini Flower (Fiori Di Zucca Fritti)
Indulge in the delectable delight of deep-fried zucchini flowers, a famous Italian snack. Tossed in a light batter, these crispy treats are simply irresistible. For a twist of flavor, they are occasionally filled with creamy mozzarella and anchovy. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor this classic Italian delicacy and embark on a culinary journey that will truly tantalize your taste buds.
Potato Croquettes
The crunchy taste of Potato Croquettes with Mozzarella cheese is delicious and one of the best Italian snacks. Most restaurants have it on their menu as an appetizer. I loved this snack during our Italy trip; therefore, I tried it many times.
Photos of Street Food in Italy
Drinks and Desserts
Lemon Delight (Delizia al Limone)
Amalfi coast favorite Lemon Delight is mini sponge cakes filled with lemon custard. If you are visiting southern Italy you can’t miss it, must try it for a great Italian experience.
Limoncello cream (Crema di Limoncello)
Limoncello cream is a popular southern Italian drink served after the meal, especially on hot summer days. The one we tried was prepared with lemon, milk, sugar, and a flavor like vanilla. They offer both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options.
Gelato (Ice Cream)
Gelato in Italy is a kind of ice cream available almost everywhere and is an all-time favorite dessert after a meal. It has a traditional unique taste than what we are used to from where I live—especially the creamy soft gelato flavored with lemon zest.
Aperol Spritz
Embraced by locals and tourists alike, the Aperol Spritz holds a special place as one of the most popular and refreshing Italian drinks. This delightful cocktail blends together the harmonious flavors of Aperol, Prosecco, soda water, and ice, creating a symphony of taste sensations. To elevate its vibrant profile even further, a zesty orange slice is often added. Sip on this invigorating libation and allow its effervescence to whisk you away to the charming streets of Italy, where every sip is a tantalizing journey for the palate.
Limoncello
For a great southern Italian moment, especially if you are traveling around Amalfi Coast or Capri, you must try this drink. A perfect drink for a hot summer day.
Bellini
Bellini is another Italian cocktail for a warm summer day. This Sparkling drink originated in Venice, made with simple ingredients: Peach puree and Prosecco.
Photos of Drinks and Desserts in Italy
Conclusion
Apart from adventure, sightseeing, and exploring ancient places, Italy is one of those countries that is best for a great culinary experience. At the same time, planning your trip, set aside additional slots just for that. If time permits, plan some walking tours, which is a great way to know joints where locals go for great food. Or take some cooking classes. Here is a list of cooking activities you can
