If you were to close your eyes and try to envision a quaint little Italian restaurant, you would probably have conjured up a dimly lit place, red and white checked tablecloths, a chianti bottle topped with a candle, and a shaker of parmesan cheese on the table. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth. When visiting Italy, you will never find a red and white checked tablecloth in a restaurant. Nor will you find a shaker of pre-grated parmesan cheese. There are many misnomers about serving an authentic Italian meal and we hope to clarify a few for you.
Italian meals are multi-course. Spaghetti and meatballs are two separate courses in a true Italian household or restaurant. Risotto and pasta are never served as side dishes. Each may have seafood or meat as a component, but they always stand alone.
When serving an Italian meal it is important to pair the right sauce with the appropriate pasta. Do your homework and make sure the sauce you chose will not overpower the pasta or get lost in it. (Hint: There is no such thing as spaghetti with Bolognese sauce in Italy.)
Caesar salad is not a commonly served salad in Italy. Instead, serve your guests a salad of tossed greens topped with delicate, flavorful vinaigrettes including either lemon juice or a well-aged balsamic vinegar for your salad course.
While many chefs today say that it is perfectly suitable to add grated cheese to a fish and pasta dish, in Italy this is still not a widely accepted practice. Since the verdict is in limbo, it’s acceptable to experiment and decide what pleases your taste buds.
Espresso is the only coffee that should end an authentic Italian meal. It can be served with an espresso bean, a twist of lemon peel, and sometimes Anisette or Sambuca. Cappuccino is made with milk, and that is reserved for breakfast time, as are lattes. Italians do not drink coffee with any meal, other than breakfast. If your guests insist on deviating from the authentic and wish to have a cappuccino after the meal, the only authentic toppings to use are whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
Of course, the best way to experience a truly authentic Italian meal is by visiting Christini’s. From table setting and ambience to the last drop of espresso, we guarantee you will be completely immersed in the culture and taste of Italy! Come and visit one of the best Italian restaurants Orlando.
