Planning to visit a restaurant with an Italian (flavour) world? On your next holiday, there’s a good chance you’ll be heading for an authentic trattoria? This article can help you avoid being overwhelmed by the abundant choice.
How to make a conscious choice from the Italian menu to make the experience truly authentic and unforgettable? Our handy guide can help you read through the menu with confidence, so you always choose the delicacy that best suits your taste.
Understanding the Italian eating ritual
The richness of Italian gastronomy is not only reflected in the food, but also in the structure of the meal. For the Italians, eating is a ritual, with several courses following each other in a neat sequence and each dish playing a special role.
Here are the classic stages of the typical Italian meal:
- Antipasto: An appetizer, usually made up of cold dishes such as bruschetta, cheese or various cold cuts. It is the prelude to a meal.
- Primo: The first main course, usually pasta or risotto. Here you can choose the type of Italian pasta dish you want.
- Secondo: The main course, usually meat or fish. In Italy, there is a strong emphasis on fresh, quality ingredients, and secondo is a perfect example of this.
- Dolci: A dessert, which can be a slice of tiramisu, panna cotta or even a simple but delicious Italian ice cream (gelato).
How to choose pasta or pizza from an Italian menu?
The most popular items on Italian menus are pasta dishes and pizzas. The right choice is often a matter of taste, but a few tips can help you get there.
Pasta
If you’re looking for a creamier, richer taste, Spaghetti Carbonara or Fettuccine Alfredo could be the perfect choice. For lighter but intensely flavoured pasta, try Penne all’Arrabbiata, a spicy tomato pasta, or Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, a simple but delicious garlic and olive oil dish.
Pizza
For classic, clean flavours, Pizza Margherita with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella and basil is the essence of Italian pizza. For something more substantial, Pizza Diavola with spicy salami or Quattro Stagioni with four different toppings is a more daring choice.
Meat and fish dishes on an Italian menu
For something more substantial, Italian meat or fish dishes are unlikely to disappoint. Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a huge grilled steak in the Florentine style, is one of the most iconic Italian meat dishes.
But it’s also worth trying the Pollo alla Cacciatora, which features slow-roasted chicken with wine, tomatoes and herbs.
For seafood lovers, Spaghetti alle Vongole (spaghetti with shells) or Pesce al Forno (fish baked in the oven) are excellent choices, simple to prepare but delicious thanks to the fresh ingredients.
Which dessert to choose from an Italian menu?
Italian desserts are simply heavenly. For something light, go for panna cotta, a silky creamy dessert with fruit sauce. For those with a classic sweet tooth, the Tiramisu is not to be missed – a dessert layered with coffee, mascarpone and cocoa that’s a favourite with almost everyone.
Not forgetting Italian gelato, one of the best choices on hot summer days. The flavours are almost endless, so you’re guaranteed to find your favourite!
Wine choosing tips from Italian menus
Italian wines can be the perfect accompaniment to food. A light pasta or pizza pairs well with a refreshing Pinot Grigio, while a fuller-bodied red like Chianti or Barolo is ideal for richer meat dishes.
Remember, wines also vary by region, so it’s a good idea to ask for the restaurant’s wine list to find the best match for your meal.
Conclusion
Although Italian cuisine is based on simplicity, the rich flavours and carefully selected ingredients make each dish a unique experience. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive meal, if you make a conscious choice from the menu, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience.
Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy your meal – after all, the Italians believe that one of life’s greatest pleasures is good food and drink!
