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Italian cuisine is known for its great variety of ingredients.

  The southern European country Italy has greatly influenced cuisines all over the world. Pasta and pizza are staples of the American diet known to have Italian origin, but many overlook the diversity of traditional Italian dishes. Formal Italian meals come in four courses; antipasti, primi piatti, secondi piatti, and dolci. 

  Antipasti dishes are the equivalent of an appetizer in the United States, and they are presented on a platter for the table to share. Typical ingredients include cured or pickled meats, olives, cheese, and vegetables in oil. You can find various antipasti spreads at downtown Raleigh’s Mulino Italian Kitchen and Bar. A classic example is their Tagliere spread which includes prosciutto, salami, coppa, taleggio, caciocavallo, pecorino, cured olives and pickled vegetables.

  Primi piatti is the first formal course of an Italian meal. Dishes often include pasta, risotto, gnocchi or soup. Senior Margaret Wilson shared, “My favorite Italian dish is my Nonna’s homemade spaghetti sauce. She really pours her whole heart into making it and you can taste that for sure! On the lines of recommendation, I’d say Caffe Luna downtown has the most authentic Italian food.”

  Secondi piatti  is the second course and consists of meat or fish. This is usually the most expensive dish at a restaurant. At Vivace located in North Hills, you can find a variety of amazing secondi piatti dishes. These include grilled salmon and pork chops, chicken al mattone, veal saltimbocca and more.

  Lastly, dolce is the dessert course. Junior Marisa Giardino shared her favorite Italian dessert. She said, “We have family dinner every Sunday at my grandma’s house and we always make these fried donuts called zeppoles. They’re amazing! I never see anyone talk about them, and they are super fun and easy to make in a deep fryer.”

  Italian cuisine varies depending on region, but it always maintains a variety of Mediterranean and hearty flavors everyone should try. If you’re looking to try a little piece of Italy within Raleigh, other acclaimed Italian restaurants include Cucciolo Terrazza, Brodeto and Gravy.