| In the USA we are accustomed to scarfing down our | | | | chicken are the most commonly used meats, |
| meals whether we are eating alone or as a family. In | | | | especially in the northern regions. Beef as begun to |
| Italy eating is an event where families take time to | | | | become more popular. Wild game is quite popular in |
| enjoy each others company. There is no rushing the | | | | Tuscany and local fish is popular to most regions. |
| food is appreciated as much as the good company. | | | | Along with Secondo comes Contorno, this is the side |
| Meals are seen as a time to spend time with family | | | | dish. It usually consists of the salad or cooked |
| and friends instead of immediate sustenance. In | | | | vegetables. The salad is usually eaten along with the |
| today's busy life, even in Italy long family meals are | | | | main dish. |
| reserved for special occasions. The everyday meal | | | | Next, will be the first dessert. This is the Formaggio e |
| may consist of only 2 courses, the first and second | | | | Fruitas, the cheese and fruit. Local cheeses are a very |
| course, the side dish and coffee. During the holidays or | | | | important part of this course. Italian's really love their |
| special occasions meals can last 3 to 4 hours and | | | | cheese. |
| have at least 4 courses. In this article I will explain the | | | | In addition is the Dolce or second dessert. This will |
| many courses of a traditional Italian Dinner. | | | | contain things that Americans tend to think of more as |
| First, the Apertivo or apertif is usually enjoyed before | | | | dessert item. Sweet things such as cakes cookies and |
| one takes part i a large meal. Many popular apertifs | | | | puddings. |
| are:Campari, Cinzano, Prosecco, Aperol, Spritz and | | | | Now it is time for Caffe, the famous and delicious |
| Vermouth. | | | | Italian coffee. Differing from the USA, they have |
| Second, the Antipasto, which means before the meal, | | | | coffee after they have had dessert not with the |
| this consists of hot and cold appetizers. | | | | dessert. |
| Third, Primo or better known as the first course, will | | | | Lastly, they take part in the Digestives. this is when the |
| consist of a hot dish like pasta, risotto, gnocchi, polenta | | | | Italians enjoy their Liqueurs. Some of the most popular |
| or soup. | | | | ones are: Grappa, Amaro, Limoncello, and Sambuca. |
| Next comes Secondo, the second course this is the | | | | These drinks are sometimes added to coffee. |
| main dish which is usually fish or meat. Veal, pork and | | | | |