In Italy, every meal is a celebration and an art form. Let's discover together how a traditional Italian meal is structured, from its beginning to its delicious ending. This gastronomic journey guides you through the different stages of a meal and gives you an authentic insight into Italian food culture.

1. Antipasto: the perfect start In Italy, antipasto is not a dish we eat every day; it is more common on festive occasions and cozy dinners with friends. This dish is meant to prolong the dining experience and enjoy something delicious while chatting. Imagine a nice selection of salami and cheeses accompanied by a good wine, an ideal way to start the evening.

2. Primo: the heart of the meal The first course, which is usually pasta or risotto, is traditionally served at lunch. However, there are no set rules in restaurants, and many Italians love to enjoy carbonara , lasagna or risotto with mushrooms for dinner as well. This dish represents the heart of the meal and shows the richness and variety of Italian food culture.

3. Secondo: protein and veggies The second course often focuses on proteins, such as meat or fish, and is served with side dishes. In addition to grilled vegetables and mashed potatoes , a fresh salad with olive oil and wine or balsamic vinegar is a refreshing and light addition. This side dish adds freshness and facilitates digestion.

4. Dolce (or dessert): the sweet ending Dessert is a festive part of the meal and often appears at Sunday lunches. It can be homemade or purchased and often comes in the form of "paste" , not so different from the Danish wienerbrød . Classic desserts such as tiramisu , panna cotta and cannoli siciliani , for example, represent the perfect end to the meal.

5. Coffee and digestif: the traditional ending Finally, an espresso is an Italian tradition and the perfect end to the meal. After the coffee, it is customary to serve a digestif , known as ammazzacaffé (coffee...killer): amaro, limoncello or grappa, which finishes the meal in a tasteful way and helps with digestion.

Every stage of an Italian meal is designed to offer a complete and satisfying gastronomic experience. Whether you're preparing a meal at home or simply dreaming of your next trip to Italy, knowing these traditions will enable you to appreciate the richness of Italian food culture even more.

Buon appetito!