Authentic Italian Food
Authentic Italian food can be enjoyed almost anywhere, not just in Italy. Most of the Italian food in chain restaurants, and pizzerias is not truly authentic Italian food. However, there are several restaurants and grocers that offer authentic cuisine.
To eat like the locals do in Italy, meals consisting of authentic Italian food begin at breakfast. Most Italians eat a simple breakfast that includes coffee, or cappuccino, and a basic pastry. The main meal of the day is Lunch, which begins around 1pm in the afternoon. This meal is used as a time for friends and family to gather around the table and enjoy authentic Italian food, drink, and converse before heading back to the daily grind of work and chores. A typical workday lunch is broken into categories and begins with the "primo" course of soup, risotto, ravioli, or another form of pasta. The serving size of this first course is generally a healthy cup. This course is then followed by the "secondo" course, which is the main course of meat, fish, vegetables, or eggs. An authentic Italian food that may be served is a hearty stew, with a side of sautéed vegetables in olive oil and garlic. Lunch is then concluded with a serving of fresh fruit, and a small cup of espresso. Dinner is typically lighter than lunch, and is served about seven hours later. Wine is almost always consumed along with various cheeses as appetizers, meats, and vegetables. A light dinner could just consist of a salad, soup, polenta, and fruits. Authentic Italian food is quite healthy and well balanced.
On special occasions, such as holidays or weddings, a much larger feast is prepared. It can take several hours to consume and will consist of several courses. There will be more than one primo, secondo, and various forms of drinks and desserts. Wine will also be served and different wines may accompany different courses. Whatever the time of day, or occasion, authentic Italian food is always prepared with care and should be enjoyed to the fullest.
