Fast Food Italian

Fast food Italian is a phrase that you might not be familiar with. Do not think that this means getting in your car and heading for a drive through. There are many places you can get real, healthy, fast food Italian.

Of course most people think fast food Italian restaurants are pizza chains that crank out pies in a fast, assembly line fashion. However, there are many alternatives to this idea; fast food does not have to equal bad food. There are several restaurant chains throughout the world that offer "fast" Italian food at a discount price. This does not necessarily mean they use sub par ingredients, or poor ingredients. Many offer good food choices, at reasonable prices, in a quick fashion or even packaged for pickup.

Making fast food Italian at home is just as easy. Spaghetti and meatballs with a tossed salad and a side of garlic bread is one meal that can be made in no time. There are many quality sauces available at the market, as well as prepared breads, and meat products. And while most Italians do not have meatballs with spaghetti, this has become a very popular addition in other parts of the world. Lasagna rolls can be whipped up in a short amount of time using either a meat or cheese filling, topping with cheese, and baking. Another delicious quick side is fried zucchini sticks. Cut a zucchini into sticks, dip in egg, and coat with seasoned breadcrumbs. Drop coated sticks into hot oil and fry until golden and crisp. Serve these with a fresh marinara sauce that can be picked up at any grocery store. A refrigerated package of pesto from the grocer is another fast food Italian ingredient that can make a great meal in no time. Try spooning the pesto over a grilled chicken breast, or serving on pasta.

If you are in the mood for a more elaborate dish, such as ravioli, manicotti, lasagna, or tortellini, you can always head for the freezer section in your local grocery store. There are many high quality frozen options that are made with fresh ingredients and no preservatives.

Fast food Italian can be healthy, flavorful, and low cost. You do not have to compromise quality for convenience, and you can have many other options in addition to pizza.