Italy is a foodie’s paradise, renowned for its exceptional cuisine. The country is so intertwined with food that the mere mention of Italy inevitably invokes thoughts of its delectable dishes. Food is an integral part of the Italian way of life and culture, and thoughtful discussions about it are commonplace during mealtimes. Italians have a love for food that runs deep, and visitors to their homes can expect to be treated to long conversations while indulging in generous portions. While most of us associate Italy with the staple Italian foods of pizza and pasta, if you’re looking to experience something different, here are six delightful foods to try in Italy that aren’t pizza and pasta.
Arancini
You’ll find these practically everywhere in Italy, but they are a Sicilian and southern Italian staple. Arancini, the beloved rice balls of Italy, are a popular treat served by a variety of vendors, from quaint local cafes to elegant restaurants like La Grotta in Sicily. These delectable rice-based snacks are filled with ingredients such as mushrooms, gooey mozzarella, meats, and vegetables and then perfectly fried.
Although typically served as a starter or snack, arancini’s taste and texture make them a highlight of any meal. Don’t miss out on the chance to try one of the best staple Italian foods the country has to offer by ordering a few to share before your main course (or as a treat when exploring the city).
Truffles
A lesser-known fact about Italy, mushrooms are a big deal in the country. Sagre dei Funghi, or Fungi Festivals, happen around the country during early fall to celebrate the harvest and consumption of this divine food!
And so, one of the absolute best foods to try in Italy is truffles. Abruzzo and Langhe are two of the most prominent areas for truffles, but you can likely find them on menus across the country. As for pairings, try truffles in pasta dishes like trofie al pesto or on bruschetta. You can also enjoy truffle oil drizzled over a variety of dishes for its added fragrant and wonderful flavors.
Risotto
Italy loves its starches, and rice is no exception. The country is actually the biggest rice producer in Europe! While southern Italy is often referred to as the bread basket, Northern Italy (particularly Lombardy and Piedmont) is its rice bowl. In these regions, you can expect top-notch risotto! Creamy mushroom risotto is an Italian favorite. Top it with the luxurious flavor of truffles during the fall season for the freshest mushrooms in Italy!
You will have no trouble finding risotto on restaurant menus when visiting Italy. If you’re enjoying your meal with a glass of wine, be sure to ask your waiter for the best pairing. Mushroom risotto, for example, is especially delicious with earthier reds like Pinot Noir, or fuller-bodied whites like Chardonnay.
Tiramisù
When it comes to dessert in Italy, tiramisù takes the cake. This sweet-and-creamy combination of coffee, cocoa, and mascarpone is an undeniable Italian staple food and one of the world’s tastiest desserts. Request it after dinner for a perfect combination of coffee and sweetness. As you may know, many Italians take an espresso after dinner to facilitate digestion. Grab a coffee (or limoncello) if you like, but we must recommend a tiramisù as well. A trip to Italy is hardly complete without sinking your teeth into a fresh tiramisù.
Focaccia
Focaccia is unique because it’s a bit like pizza and a bit like bread. The region of Liguria is famous for the renowned flatbread known as focaccia – but you’ll find this goodie across the country. Focaccia is like a thick pizza dough, and classic focaccia is salty, drizzled with olive oil, and irresistible either by itself. However, you will often find them topped with olives, tomatoes, cheeses, or meats.
They are served open-faced and look absolutely delightful. However, you’ll quickly find that the bread is quite different from that of pizza and they are usually made without tomato sauce. Delicious and satisfying, focaccia is definitely one the best Italian staple foods that you simply don’t want to miss!
Digestivo
The term “digestivo” does not refer to one particular drink, but a class of drinks that are enjoyed after a big meal to facilitate digestion and help you feel not-quite-so-full. These drinks date back to the Middle Ages, and Italy is one of the top countries in Europe for enjoying a digestive post-dinner.
One of the most popular is the sweet and strong limoncello, which is a lot like drinking an alcoholic lemon candy with a high concentration of both alcohol and lemon. This beverage is typically served chilled after dinner or with dessert. Though it’s served in a shooter glass, it is meant to be sipped slowly. Other options include grappa, amaro, cynar, amaretto, sambuca, and more.
While we could go on and on listing the best foods to try in Italy, this sampling platter will give you a wide taste of Italian cuisine. From the sweetness of tiramisù to the bold flavor of truffles, Italy’s cuisine packs the wow factor.
Read: 5 Essential Tips for Rome Travel for First-Time Visitors
Have you tried any of these staple Italian foods in Italy or elsewhere? Let us know!
