Sicilian cuisine is truly something else. With dishes like Pasta alla Norma, Gambero Rosso, Caponata, and Cannoli, it's no wonder that the Italian island has become a fairly popular destination for foodies. The country itself is beloved for its food but what makes its cuisine so fascinating is that various regions offer their own unique dishes and delicacies. And of course, Sicily is no different. Once you get a taste of an authentic Involtini di pesce spade that was actually prepared on the island, you'd sooner crave it even more. Such is the magic of Sicilian cuisine!
Pasta alla Norma
Let's start with what is perhaps the most famous dish to come out of Sicily, Pasta alla Norma. Though there are countless pasta dishes there, it's no surprise that Sicily has its own delectable take. Made with local aubergines, garlic, basil, tomatoes and
ricotta salata (salted ricotta), it's a delicious starter to any hearty meal. It's also vegetarian, allowing those who live a more organic lifestyle the chance to try out Sicilian cuisine. And the best part? You can use
different types of pasta to make it. It's a versatile dish that'll fit any palate!
Source: Flickr.com/ Laissez Fare
Caponata
Go to any
restaurant in Sicily and there's a good chance that Caponata is part of their menu. Another vegetarian dish, aubergine, a staple in Sicilian cuisine, is the main star of the show. Although various households on the island have their own takes on the recipe, one thing's for certain is that it should contain aubergine. Be it fried or stewed, this dish brings out the vegetable's natural flavors, and in turn, the flavors of the island as well. You can go to Sicily without trying Caponata at least once!
Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Luca Nebuloni
Gambero Rosso
“
Gambero Rosso” is another culinary staple from Sicily. Though in truth, you may not agree. Why? Because in English, 'Gambero Rosso' is translated to “Red Prawns.” Practically every place that's near the sea has prawns. In the Mediterranean alone, there are countless coastal cities and towns that have prawns in their cuisines. It's a seafood staple in the region and beyond. So what about Sicilian red prawns make them unique? Their succulent taste and flavor. One bite is enough to convince you that Sicilian Gambero Rosso truly is one of a kind. It's no wonder the rest of the world gets many of their prawns from this island!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Involtini di pesce spade
Another seafood staple in Sicily is swordfish. More specifically, “
Involtini di pesce spade.” Baked and/or fried into rolls, this is a simple delicacy that you'll find practically anywhere on the island. It's a common choice for street food in
many towns in Sicily, each putting on their own delectable spins on the snack. And it's arguably better when served on a stick. This will allow you to eat it as you walk around exploring the island. Seasoned with salt, olive oil, and oftentimes lemon, every bite will put your taste buds on a tailspin!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Cannoli
Let's now proceed to the sweets! First up is what is perhaps another of the most popular dishes from Sicily, the cannoli. Deep-fried pastry tubes filled with cream, it's just
as famous as gelato! What's so great about it is that it's easy to eat. Just bite right into it and you'll get the sweet sensation you've always wanted. If you want to enjoy it in a less messy way, you can suck in all the cream first before biting into the scrumptious pastry. Either way, the cannoli is something both young and old enjoy!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Granita con brioche
For a fancier dessert, you can always get a Granita con brioche. Though Sicilians would argue that this is more of a breakfast staple than an after-meal treat. For many locals on the island, the best way to start the day is with a freshly-baked brioche and a hot cup of coffee. In summer, some would even pair theirs with lemon water instead of coffee. And if you want it sweet, you can enjoy it with cream, ice cream, and more. That's what makes the Granita con brioche so great. It's a pretty versatile treat.
Source: Flickr.com/ hugovk
Discover some of the most delicious dishes from Sicily. From delicacies to desserts, they prove that Sicilian cuisine truly is scrumptious. As well as they're an integral part of Italian cuisine as a whole!
