Through the years some recipes have altered to fit the times and represent the ever-growing influence Italian food has on the world, but the basis of light and fresh will ever remain true. Whether you are nestled in the countryside or relaxing somewhere on the coast enjoying the Mediterranean or the Adriatic Sea; Italy’s options for dishes are endless and always filling. The regional overlap between many dishes in Italy signify the similarities between a meal from the north or south. Simply beginning with just a little olive oil, the extra virgin kind, and a clove of garlic the base for the sauce is created. A little salted boiling water and your favorite fresh noodle, the pasta dishes are infinite. Some fresh chopped Italian parsley and thinly grated parmesan and you have got a topper in any dish. Fresh ingredients reflect the most important quality of this cuisine and what makes Italian food vibrant, filling, and delicious to many.

Italian food is the type of cuisine that can be the center of any good dinner party, a basic family weeknight dinner, or a romantic date night. The abundance of options whether your feeling pasta, potatoes, or even meat makes this cuisine appealing to so many.  Any Italian recipe strives to reflect the regional diversity of the country itself, dishes from the mountain areas, small towns, and coastal places make for several options. The cuisine itself strives to be simple and easy while using the least amount of ingredients possible. Basic ingredients and simple methods make it easy for any level to recreate an authentic dish right in your own kitchen. There is no need to be a chef the culinary arts, rather pride you on fresh and quality ingredients and the dishes will truly reflect what it feels like to be in Italy.

Author Bio

Alexandra Gandara

Alexandra Gandara

Alexandra Gandara is a senior English major at the University of Alabama who reins all the way from Orange County, California. With an Italian mother and Mexican father her love for food was destined from birth. When she is not riding horses, Alex loves to hang out with friends, whether it is cooking up new recipes in the kitchen or out trying new places.