Let’s Eat Italian

Italy is the food capital of the world, known for it’s use of using fresh, high quality ingredients simply put together to create something very special and very delicious.
This cuisine has built its very reputation on old-world simplicity and Italian cuisine is famous for some best loved traditions. But, there may be some new trends on the horizon starting with new twists on traditional ingredients to the timeless dishes that may be newly rediscovered in your own kitchen.
The next trip to your farmer’s market or your local grocery store be sure to keep an eye out for Sicilian or Sorrento lemons as these fruits have a particular flavor and are great in making lemoncello or in many lemon desserts.
Switch up your pasta instead of using your standard spaghetti or penne, try types like ziti or tubular shaped pasta as these pastas complement sauces and meats really well.  Balsamic vinegars are now available in more varieties than ever and add natural flavors. Look for aged varieties, as well as, different flavors such as pomegranate, strawberry or cranberry!   You can’t forget the parmesan cheese. Did you know in order to be considered parmesan, this cheese has to be aged for at least one year, there are many that are being sold that have aged as long as three years. There will be more of a variety in parmesan cheese available on your store shelves this year!  A traditional cured Italian meat, guanciale is something to be on the lookout for. This traditional recipe is made from pork jowl and cheek and is used in carbonara recipes and served with a variety of pastas too. Sourdough pizza is a new trend that uses fermented dough for well over a full day with natural yeast, this lighter dough tastes great and doesn’t leave you feeling heavy.
No other cuisine is as popular as Italian food and according to a report by the National Restaurant Association, 61 percent of the 1,000 people surveyed by the NRA said they eat Italian food at least once a month. So it is no wonder that this delicious food and cuisine is only evolving and keeping up with food trends.  Enjoy and Bon Appetit!
Come join us at Maria’s Italian Deli and Market in Old Town Newhall. Please call us at 661-259-6261. Visit our website at: www.mariasdeliscv.com.  Be sure to place your order early for the 4th of July celebrations and any summer events you may be planning.