Cusine varies throughout Italy, however, pasta, bread, rice, and polenta is used in various ways to make delicious Italian dishes.

 

Grains, such as bread and pasta are staples in Italian cusine.

 

Tomatoes, garlic, onions, bell peppers, eggplants, zucchini, cabbage, artichoke, mushrooms, fennel, celery, asparagus, spinach, cauliflower, adn broccoli are the most comonly used vegetables.

 

Tuna, anchovies, sardines, swordfish, cod, salmon, shrimp, crab, squid, clams and mussels are all commonly found in Italian dishes.

 

Parmesan, mozzarella, romano, gorgonzola and ricotta are popular cheeses consumed in Italy.

 

Fresh or dried herbs such as basil, parsley, rosemary, oregano, salt, freshly cracked pepper, and vinegar are used to enhance the flavor of Italian dishes.