The Best 7 Italian Dishes You Must Try
When we think of Italy, we think of the Colosseum, the canals of Venice, and the rolling hills of Tuscany. But let’s be honest: we mostly think about the food. Italian cuisine is arguably the most loved in the world, yet it is often misunderstood. It isn’t about complicated recipes; it’s about simple, fresh ingredients coming together to create magic.
Before You Die
If you are planning a trip to Italy, or just want to hunt down the most authentic flavors in your local city, where do you start? From the snowy Alps to the sunny coast of Sicily, here are the 7 best Italian dishes that define the country’s culinary soul.
1- Pizza Napoletana (Naples Style)
You can’t talk about best Italian food without starting here. But forget the fast-food chains; true Pizza Napoletana is an art form protected by UNESCO heritage status. Born in Naples, this masterpiece features a soft, chewy, thin crust with puffed edges (cornicione).
Why it’s special:
It keeps things simple. A classic Margherita only uses San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella di bufala, fresh basil, and extra virgin olive oil. It’s not just a dish; it’s a religion in Naples.
2- Pasta Carbonara
If you think Carbonara is made with heavy cream, you’ve been lied to! The authentic Roman Carbonara is a creamy, velvety delight made without a single drop of cream. The magic comes from an emulsion of raw eggs, Pecorino Romano cheese, black pepper, and Guanciale (cured pork cheek).
The Experience:
It’s rich, salty, and incredibly comforting. Eating a perfectly made Carbonara in a Roman trattoria is a life-changing experience for any foodie.
3- Lasagna alla Bolognese
This is the ultimate Sunday comfort food. While there are many versions, the classic Lasagna alla Bolognese from the Emilia-Romagna region is the king. It consists of layers of fresh spinach pasta sheets, rich beef ragù (meat sauce), and creamy Béchamel sauce—topped with Parmigiano-Reggiano.
The Taste:
Unlike the ricotta-heavy versions found in the US, the Italian original relies on the silkiness of the Béchamel to bind the layers together. It melts in your mouth.
4- Risotto alla Milanese
Moving north to Milan, rice takes center stage over pasta. Risotto alla Milanese is instantly recognizable by its striking golden-yellow color, thanks to the generous use of saffron.
Why try it:
It’s creamy and rich, cooked slowly with beef stock, butter, and cheese. It is often served with Ossobuco (braised veal shanks), creating a flavor combination that is deeply savory and luxurious.
5- Ossobuco
Speaking of Ossobuco, this Lombard specialty deserves its own spot on the list. It consists of cross-cut veal shanks braised for hours with vegetables, white wine, and broth.
The Secret:
The best part is the marrow in the center of the bone, which is scooped out and eaten. It’s typically topped with Gremolata (a mix of lemon zest, garlic, and parsley) to cut through the richness of the meat.
6- Gelato
Don’t call it ice cream. Gelato is churned at a slower speed, introducing less air, which makes it denser, silkier, and far more flavorful than American ice cream. It’s also served at a slightly warmer temperature to enhance the texture.
Must-Try Flavors:
While chocolate is great, try Pistachio (real ones are brownish-green, not neon green) or Stracciatella (cream with chocolate shards) for a true Italian treat.
7- Tiramisu
We end our journey on a sweet note. Tiramisu, meaning “pick me up” in Italian, is a no-bake dessert that conquered the world. It layers coffee-soaked savoiardi (ladyfingers) with a rich mixture of eggs, sugar, and Mascarpone cheese, dusted with cocoa powder.
The Vibe:
It’s the perfect balance of bitter coffee and sweet cream. No trip to Italy is complete without spooning into a fresh slice of Tiramisu after dinner.