Italy is not only famous for its peaceful and beautiful islands, art, culture, architecture but also for its variety of food and cuisine. And, it has global market. In India also Italian cuisines are famous and people savor them.   

Making authentic Italian cuisine is an art and truly a culinary experience. Italians enjoy this leisurely art of many courses with a great combination of aromas, flavors, colors and textures. Plating plays an important role in Italian cuisine, the cheese, tomato, oregano and basil leaves on the top of your favorite Pasta or a one pot rice meal makes it even more tempting.

Basic ingredients of every Italian dish

Fresh and locally sourced ingredients are the secret behind the flavor that cause fireworks in our mouth. Though ingredients may differ from dish to dish but these seven ingredients are crucial: 

• Olive Oil

Olive oil is often called “liquid gold” because of its importance in the Italian cuisine. It is used in every single dish whether it is a little drizzle over the salad or a basic component of pasta or used for shallow frying the cheese spinach sandwich. If there is any country who uses olive oil to its full potential is Italy.

• Cheese 

Cheese has a special place in Italian kitchens. Variety of them, each with its own unique taste, is used in various dishes like Mozzarella is used in commonly used in pizzas, Parmesan is used in risotto and pasta, Pecorino and Burrata are used in salads; while Mascarpone can be found in desserts.

• Wine 

Italians believe strongly that wine is not just for sipping but is ideal for cooking as well! Alcohol is added to a variety of Italian dishes to add a punch of flavor to it. A dash of red wine in bubbling Bolognese sauce can create a magical flavor you won’t be able to forget.

• Basil

 Basil is an integral seasoning and herb in Italian dishes. This herb is planted by both professional chefs and homeowners in their gardens so that fresh basil leaves are available to them. Most famous dish prepared by Basil is Pesto.

• Tomato

Tomatoes are called the backbone of the Italian cuisine. They are produced in huge amount in Italy every year and hence used amply the Italian kitchens. This red king is available in every type from cherry to Pomodorino, Principe Borghese, Beefsteak, and San Marzano. They are used in making soups, sauces, salads, pizza, gazpacho, and more.

• Mushroom

Mushroom is a really important ingredient in the making of sauces. They give a texture and hearty flavor to the dish along with this it is a great source of protein. Whether it is Portobello or Porcini, mushrooms tossed in pasta or added on top of pizzas can add extra punch to the dish.

• Pasta

Pasta is the pride and staple food of Italy. Italian cuisine is incomplete without pasta. The most common types of pasta found in Italian cuisine are spaghetti, fettuccine, ravioli, lasagna, fusilli, penne, pappardelle, and more.

               Source: PARLATO'S CATERING

MEALS

Lunch is traditionally extensive in Italy, in modern Italy, this tradition is still followed. On weekends, holidays and at formal restaurants the Italian meals consist of following components:

• Antipasti- They are the snacks that are served with a glass of alcohol. The snacks served depends on region to region and the season that is going on. Consider slices of meat, olives, grilled vegetables, bruschetta and/or cheese.

• Primo Pattio – This is referred as the first course which includes a small portion of pasta, soup. Gnocchi and risotto.

• Secundo Pattio – This is the second course which consists of meat or fish served with bread and contorni. Contorni is a side dish/vegetable/salad.

• Frutta and Dolci – Italians prefer to finish the meal with fruits and that too peeled. Creamy Dolci like Tiramisu and Panacotta are saved for weekend and Italian ice cream is saved for summer evenings.

• Espresso and Digestivo - After the meal, a final cup of strong coffee and a digestif follows. The range of digestifs is overwhelming; there are more than three hundred to choose from, from sweet grappa or limoncello to bitter amari.

Italian food is very influential and is appreciated around the world. Its flavors and textures have left an impact which is really strong. With this the platting style and the toppings used in the cuisine makes it look aesthetic and photo worthy. The use of fresh herbs, vegetables, olive oil and mushrooms makes the dishes beneficiary to health. Indeed, Italian cuisine is way to the soul.

Source: NDTV FOOD