Italy is not just pizza and carbonara! Discover some new lesser-known traditional dishes!

Italian cuisine has always been synonymous with excellence in gastronomy, and many famous dishes such as pizza, carbonara, lasagna, and tiramisu have long been favorites worldwide. But Italy offers much more than these world-renowned specialties.

Italian cuisine, Photo: denio109 Depositphotos

From north to south, every corner of this beautiful country hides unique dishes that reflect its rich history, local traditions, and original ingredients.

Suppose you want to experience Italian cuisine in its full splendor. In that case, we suggest you try some of the lesser-known but incredibly delicious dishes that will give you a new perspective on Italian gastronomy.

1. PASTA ALLA NORMA (SICILIA)

This classic Sicilian pasta dish combines fried eggplant, rich tomato sauce, basil, and salted ricotta. Due to its simplicity and at the same time rich taste, Pasta alla Norma often surprises guests who have not heard of this Sicilian gem.

Pasta alla Norma, Photo: imarksm, Depositphotos

2. CACCIUCCO (TUSCANY)

Cacciucco is a thick fish stew from the coastal city of Livorno. This rich seafood stew, in which several types of fish and shellfish are cooked, is served with toasted bread rubbed with garlic. A perfect treat for seafood lovers.

Cacciucco, Photo: Anna.Massini, CC BY-SA 4.0

3. PIZZOCCHERI (LOMBARDY)

Pizzoccheri is a special type of pasta made from buckwheat flour, typical of the Valtellina Valley in northern Italy. It is served with potatoes, cabbage, and melted Casera cheese and seasoned with garlic and sage. A perfect example of the rich flavors of the Italian mountain region.

Pizzoccheri, Photo: Cassinam, CC BY-SA 4.0

4. BOTTARGA (SARDINIA)

Bottarga is salted and dried fish roe, usually from mullet or tuna. This delicate and intense dish is often served thinly sliced ​​as an appetizer or grated over pasta, creating a unique and rich flavor that connoisseurs adore.

Bottarga, Photo: Μεσολόγγι, CC BY-SA 4.0

5. STRANGOZZI AL TARTUFO (UMBRIA)

Umbria is famous for its black truffles, and Strangozzi al Tartufo is the perfect combination of this prized mushroom and homemade pasta. Simple ingredients such as garlic and olive oil allow the truffle flavor to come to the fore.

Strangozzi al tartufo, Photo: MicJac Depositphotos

6. CASONCELLI (LOMBARDY)

Casoncelli is a type of stuffed pasta from Bergamo and Brescia, usually filled with a mixture of meat, breadcrumbs, raisins, and amaretto (almond biscuits). The combination of sweet and salty flavors makes this dish a real gastronomic surprise.

Casoncelli, Photo: Florixc, Public domain

7. LAMPREDOTTO (FLORENCE)

Lampredotto is an iconic Florentine street food dish made from a cow’s stomach, slowly cooked in a rich stock. It is served in a bun with parsley sauce (salsa verde) and hot sauce and is popular among the locals for its unique taste.

Lampredotto, Photo: William Held, CC BY-SA 4.0

8. FARINATA (LIGURIA)

This thin, crispy chickpea flour scone is baked in a wood-fired oven and served as a snack or appetizer. Although simple, Farinata is a favorite in Liguria for its incredible texture and taste.

Farinata, Photo: Alessio Sbarbaro, CC BY-SA 3.0

9. TIMBALLO (ABRUZZO)

Timballo is a complex dish consisting of layers of pasta (or rice) and various fillings such as meat, cheese, eggs, and vegetables. This dish is traditionally prepared for festive occasions and holidays, and each bite offers a wealth of taste.

Timballo, Photo: Mbarrieau, CC BY-SA 3.0

10. BRODETTO (MARCHES)

Brodetto is a fish stew from the Marche region and is also very popular in Dalmatia. It is prepared from different types of fish and seafood, with the addition of tomatoes, garlic, and white wine. This simple but flavorful goulash perfectly showcases the richness of Italian coastal cuisine.

Brodetto, Photo: Chiqui Teo, Public domain

Italian cuisine is much more than what you already know. The rich history and diversity of the regions contribute to the creation of incredible dishes that are often unknown to the wider world. If you have the chance, be sure to try some of these lesser-known specialties because they will allow you to experience the true depth and variety of Italian cuisine.

Let your next Italian adventure include something new – taste Italy beyond the boundaries of the known!