What is the background of Italian cuisine?
Italian cuisine started to form after the fall of the Roman Empire when different cities began to separate and form their own traditions. Many different types of bread and pasta were made, and there was a variation in cooking techniques and preparation.
Where is Italian food from?
Italian cuisine has its origins in Etruscan, ancient Greek, and ancient Roman cuisines. Significant changes occurred with the discovery of the New World and the introduction of potatoes, tomatoes, bell peppers and maize, now central to the cuisine but not introduced in quantity until the 18th century.
What makes Italian food Italian?
Italian recipes are rich in olive oils instead of other fats, they are almost always made from scratch so there are no artificial ingredients and no processed foods involved. And there are plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables involved. It’s home grown and beautifully enhances the Italian food.
How are Italian dishes presented?
Traditional Italian menus have five sections. A full meal usually consists of an appetizer, first course and a second course with a side dish. It’s not necessary to order from every course, but usually people order at least two courses.
Why is food so important in Italy?
In Italy, food is more than a means of supplying the body with the essential nutrients to stay healthy and grow, even though the Mediterranean diet which is rich in olive oil, vegetables, grains, spices, and herbs is a great source of health-enhancing nutrients.
Why is Italian food so special?
Meals are cooked with olive oils, as opposed to other cooking fats. Additionally, meals are made using fresh produce, from herbs and vegetables to meats. There are no artificial ingredients or processed food; an Italian meal is made from scratch.
Why Italian food is so popular?
The main factors that make Italian food so popular around the world are its quality, simplicity, health benefits, affordability, variety and taste. The food capital of Italy, which is Bologna, is also the place where the famous Bologna sauce was first created.
What is a traditional Italian dinner?
Primi Piatti is the first official course in a traditional Italian meal. Pasta, Risotto, Soup, Polenta, Casserole…the “pastabilities” are endless when choosing what primo piatto you want to indulge in. You’ll even enjoy a delicious lunch, complete with pasta, wine and tiramisu.