You’ll find an Italian restaurant in just about every town in Britain, sometimes more than one, so popular is this iconic European cuisine. Here’s our rundown of six of the finest Italian delicacies that you simply must try.
Image Credit
1 Coffee
We’re not talking coffee chains here. For Italians there is only one type of coffee, and that’s espresso, served rich and strong with a real caffeine kick. Southern Italians will sometimes add a little ice if the weather is very warm, but don’t try asking for a frappuccino. The cappuccino is a breakfast coffee, and no self-respecting Italian would ever dream of asking for one after midday.
2 Arancini
Gorgeous little rice balls stuffed with a variety of fillings and then smothered in breadcrumbs before being fried, arancini is a dish you simply must try. According to Metro, you need to go to Sicily to experience the real deal, but it’s still worth checking out your local Italian restaurant just in case the chef is an expert.
3 Lasagne
Everyone has a favourite recipe for lasagne, but nobody makes it like the Italians do. From Durham to Dublin Italian restaurant chefs create their own take on this Italian staple, which layers a deliciously meaty sauce with pasta and cream. In fact Toscana Dublin’s Italian Restaurant also offers a vegetarian version too, combining layers of spinach and ricotta, so even non-meat eaters can partake of this delicious Italian delight.
4 Pasta
Italy’s gift to the culinary world is surely pasta, available in a variety of shapes and sizes, and served with a huge range of sauces. From the simplest coating of olive oil and garlic to meaty Bolognese and delicious creamy sauces, everyone has their favourite pasta dish.
5 Pizza Margherita
The Pizza Margherita is one of the simplest of all pizzas but done well, it is also one of the finest. First created in Naples, the pizza should have a thin and crispy base topped with tomatoes, basil, olive oil and garlic, finished with mozzarella cheese and a scattering of parmesan for pizza perfection.
6 Ossobuco alla Milanese
Veal shanks braised in white wine is served with gremolata, which is a mix of garlic, lemon zest and parsley. Accompanied by vegetables, it is customary to finish the meal by scooping out the marrow from the bones.
