Although there is much to appreciate about Italian culture, its cuisine is often the most celebrated. The perfect blend of ingredients and seasoning delivers an unforgettable taste in every bite. When we say Italian cuisine, we’re not just talking about the fan favorites of pizza or spaghetti and meatballs. There are numerous dishes to explore for those who want to try something new the next time they visit an Italian restaurant. Discover some must-try Italian dishes from L’allegria.
What an Italian Restaurant Has to Offer
There’s no doubt that Italian cuisine is popular. You’ll find multiple Italian restaurants in most cities. While you might be tempted to order a beloved dish like pizza, pasta, or chicken parmesan, why not give your taste buds a new experience with a different Italian meal? You might also find new takes on these and other staples. Next time you go out for dinner or lunch, consider these items on the menu at L’allegria:
Italian Pasta Dishes and Related Choices
For many people, it’s not an Italian dinner without pasta. Check out these one-of-kind pasta and other delicious dishes:
- Lasagna: The standard recipe of bechamel sauce and meat ragu originated in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. It features the key ingredients of any great Italian dish, like pasta, cheese, and meat. Lasagna is also versatile, with options to swap out meat for a plant-based ingredient.
- Bolognese: Aptly named after its city of origin, Bologna, this dish is considered by some as the inspiration for the classic spaghetti and meatballs. Meat lovers will appreciate the beef and bacon (pancetta), and Bolognese is also full of vegetables like tomatoes, carrots, and onions.
- Gnocchi: Unlike pasta, gnocchi isn’t a grain but still offers a starchy choice. These dumplings are made of potatoes, with flour to hold their shape. Gnocchi pairs well with different sauces, from ragu to tomato sauce to melted butter.
- Pizza: It might seem odd to suggest trying pizza since it’s already a staple. But as all pizza chefs know, there’s no one way to make the beloved dish. What’s more, authentic Italian pizza might be much different than what you’re used to. There are many Italian styles of pizza to consider, including Pizza Della Nonna, Margherita, and La Capricciosa.
Italian Meat Dishes
Meat lovers find an array of delicious choices in Italian cuisine. Whether you prefer red meat, poultry, or seafood, you’re sure to find a dish that pleases your palate. Some options include:
- Italian chicken dishes: Most people have tried or at least heard of chicken parmesan. There are other tasty Italian chicken dishes to try, like Petto di pollo. This is chicken breast stuffed with other ingredients, usually cheese and different meat or vegetables. Another popular choice is chicken with garlic (pollo all’Aglio).
- Italian meat dishes: If you fancy red meat, you can find dishes centered around pork, beef, and veal. Highlights include:
- Grilled pork chops (braciola di maiale)
- Veal shanks (osso buco) and veal cutlets (cotoletta casareccia)
- Filet mignon (filetto al dragoncello)
- Italian seafood dishes: A pescatarian will appreciate the wide range of seafood dishes at an Italian restaurant. Find dishes centered around shrimp (involtini di gamberi all’origano e rosmarino), salmon (salmone farcito con zucchini alla menta), lobster (aragosta specialita della casa), and more.
Italian Side Dishes and Appetizers
It’s not just the main course that Italian food lovers find delectable. The side dishes and appetizers can be what some look forward to most when going to an Italian restaurant. Try these favorites:
- Caprese: This classic Italian appetizer features a combination of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced tomatoes, and olive oil, plus salt and sweet basil for seasoning.
- Insalata: While you can go for a house or Caesar salad, why not opt for insalata? These Italian salads include more than vegetables, with different takes mixing in fruits, nuts, cheeses, or meats.
- Seafood appetizers: Start the night off with a unique Italian seafood appetizer, such as gamberi e vongole al forno (shrimp and clams) or fragolini affogati (octopus).
Italian Wines and Desserts to Pair With Your Meal
You’ll need a drink to go along with your dinner. Make it a full Italian cuisine experience with the right glass of wine. Italian restaurants offer red and white wines from various regions in Italy. Ask your server about what wines pair well with different dishes.
Don’t forget about dessert! There are infinite Italian cookies, cakes, and pastries to try. From sinful cannolis to tiramisu to refreshing fruit tarts and cheesecake, we encourage all guests to give Italian desserts a try.
Experience Some of the Best Italian Dishes at L’allegria
Begin your culinary exploration into Italian dishes at L’allegria. We’re committed to delivering an authentic Italian food and dining experience. Our recipes use the freshest, most genuine ingredients and capture the traditions of Italian cuisine. Located in Madison, New Jersey, L’allegria offers the quintessential Italian dining experience to all of Morris County. Contact us today and book a reservation now.