If you are a foodie and you love Italian food, boy, we do have a surprise for you! Italian cuisine is not just pizzas and pasta like the mainstream media would have you believe. There are a variety of dishes you can try for the authentic Italian food experience. We have mashed together a list of the most mouth-watering Italian dishes that will have you scrambling for your nearest Italian ristorante. Iniziamo! (Let us begin!)
- Parmigiana di Melanzane
Also called Eggplant Parmigiana, this is a popular comfort food amongst Italians. It is made with several layers of eggplant with marinara sauce and parmesan cheese. You cannot go wrong with this Southern Italian classic.
- Chicken Cacciatore
This is another popular dish made with chicken thighs baked in a delightful tomato sauce. Allacacciatora means ‘hunter-style’ in Italian cuisine and refers to a meal prepared with a healthy dose of onions, green herbs, tomatoes, peppers, and in some cases, wine. An extremely popular dish and a firm favourite of meat lovers!
- Ribollita
Who doesn’t love a good helping of hot soup, especially on a cold day? Ribollita is a bread soup that originally came from Tuscany. It is made with cannellini beans, cabbage, carrots, onions, potatoes, and bread. The soup is loaded with flavours and is a tasty treat during colder seasons.
- Lasagne
If you haven’t tried this dish before, prepare to have your mind blown. Lasagne is a popular dish that originated in Naples. It is baked with layers of lasagne pasta with cheese in addition to more layers of meat, vegetables, and different varieties of sauces. The delightful explosion that occurs in your mouth with every bite you take is indescribable!
- Ossobucoalla Milanese
Do you enjoy meat dishes? If so, this next dish will have you in its clutches. Ossobucoalla Milanese is made with veal shanks braised with white wine and a generous helping of vegetables and broth. The addition of aromatic gremolata, a condiment made with lemon zest, garlic and parsley enhances its flavour. A dish fit for the gods!
- Saltimbocca
Saltimbocca consists of meat, usually veal, wrapped in prosciutto – Italian dry-cured ham. This delicate wrapping is then infused with sage and marinated in wine, olive oil, or sea-water and served. There are many regional variations of this dish, each adding something unique to it. Saltimbocca is a must-try for the ultimate Italian food enthusiast.
- Insalata Caprese
Looking for a perfect summertime delight? Let us introduce you to Insalata Caprese. Made with authentic mozzarella, tomatoes, basil and topped up by olive oil, this simple salad is on a different level. It is light on the stomach and the flavours are incredible; no wonder the Italians love it.
- Risotto
Risotto is a popular Italian rice dish made with broth, prepared from meat, fish, or vegetables. Depending on the type of risotto, ingredients may differ but the end product is always a creamy, delicious rice dish. It is the perfect choice for the winter season as it gets you warmed up in no time.
- Tiramisu
This Italian dessert is no stranger to people who love sweet dishes. Sought after by both locals and tourists, it is made of ladyfingers (or sponge fingers) dipped in coffee and flavoured with cocoa. A whipped mixture of eggs, sugar, and mascarpone cheese is then layered on top, for its hallmark creamy texture.
- Cipollate con Pancetta
Cipollate con pancetta is a traditional Sicilian appetiser, made with scallions, pancetta slices, oil, salt, and pepper. The scallions are wrapped in a strip of pancetta and cooked over medium-high heat until crispy brown. It is the perfect appetiser to start off your Italian food tour.
Wondering Where to Get Authentic Italian Food in Boronia?
Does this article make your mouth water? Would you like a taste of Italian cuisine here in Boronia? Visit our restaurant, The Flavour Gallery, for the authentic Italian food experience. Our menu has some of the most popular Italian dishes (including a few from the list above) along with authentic Italian wood fire pizzas and pasta. Only the best quality ingredients are used to impart the traditionally rich Italian flavours to the dishes.
At The Flavour Gallery, every bite you take will whisk you off to Italy. We are all about the experience. So, why wait to travel all the way to Italy when you can have a personal slice of authentic Italian food here at The Food Gallery? Call us on 04 8465 8580 or (03) 8813 5074 for reservations. You may also email us at info@theflavourgallery.com.au for additional information.