Italian dishes you need to try beyond pizza and pasta
What's the story
Italian cuisine is famous for its rich flavors and diverse ingredients. While traditional dishes like pasta and pizza are widely known, Italy has so much more to offer. From the northern mountains to the southern coasts, each region contributes unique culinary treasures. Exploring these lesser-known dishes can be a delightful journey into Italy's gastronomic heritage. Here are five hidden Italian dishes that promise an authentic taste of Italy beyond the usual fare.
Grilled mackerel
Sgombro alla griglia con salsa verde
Grilled mackerel with salsa verde is a simple yet flavorful dish, popular along Italy's coastal regions. The fish is grilled to perfection and served with a vibrant green sauce made from parsley, capers, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar. This dish highlights the freshness of the ingredients and showcases Italy's love for seafood. It's often accompanied by seasonal vegetables or a simple salad.
Tuscan stew
Cacciucco: Tuscan seafood stew
Cacciucco is a hearty stew from Tuscany's Livorno. This rich dish combines various types of seafood with tomatoes and aromatic herbs. Traditionally served over toasted bread or polenta, Cacciucco is a testament to Tuscany's maritime traditions. Its robust flavors make it a favorite among those looking for an authentic taste of Italian coastal cuisine.
Sicilian snack
Arancini di riso: Sicilian rice balls
Arancini di riso are delicious rice balls from Sicily, filled with cheese or ragout, and coated with breadcrumbs before frying. These golden-brown snacks are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They make for a perfect street food option across Sicily and beyond. Arancini can be found in several variations depending on local preferences.
Bread salad
Panzanella: Tuscan bread salad
Panzanella is a refreshing salad from Tuscany, made with stale bread, ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, basil leaves, olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. This rustic dish makes the most of leftover bread by soaking it in juices from fresh produce. It creates an explosion of flavors in every bite without wasting anything edible.
Onion frittata
Frittata di cipolle: Onion frittata
Frittata di cipolle is an Italian omelet-like dish prepared mainly with onions and sometimes potatoes or herbs, depending on regional variations. It is commonly served as an appetizer or light meal option throughout the country. It is especially favored during the warmer months when lighter fare takes precedence over heavier entrees typically associated with colder seasons.