Italian cuisine is known for a number of delicious dishes. Some of these include pizza, pasta and gelato. While many people think of these when they imagine Italian food, there are so many other incredible options to try that you’ll soon realize why it’s one of the world’s most beloved cuisines.

Italian cooking has a long and rich history, dating back to the ancient Romans. It’s a cuisine that combines the best of traditional and contemporary recipes, resulting in a delicious and satisfying meal.

There are a variety of traditional ingredients that make up Italian cuisine, including basil (essential for pesto), olive oil, garlic and tomatoes. These ingredients are used in a wide range of dishes, from soups and stews to seafood, salads, grains and breads.

The basic ingredients that you’ll find in most Italian dishes include vegetables, meats and cheeses, all of which are seasoned with spices and herbs. Often, the seasoning is made with a combination of basil, oregano and other herbs, which provide a strong, fragrant flavor.

Another essential ingredient in Italian cooking is guanciale, or pancetta, which is typically cut from pork cheeks or intestines. It’s sliced and tossed into pasta or served as an accompaniment to seafood.

Other common Italian staples are risotto, which is cooked rice, and stuffed pasta, such as tortellini, gnocchi and rigatoni. These dishes are popular in both northern and southern Italy.

Ribollita, or re-boiled pasta, is a traditional Tuscan dish that uses leftovers to create a hearty stew. The recipe is easy to master, but it requires some practice and the right ingredients.

Timballo, or stuffed pastry, is a popular dish in central and northern Italy. The shortcrust pastry is filled with a mixture of pasta, cheese, sausage and other meats and vegetables before it’s baked. It’s a great way to reuse leftovers or save expensive foods.

Antipasti, or appetizers, are hors d’oeuvres that are usually eaten with drinks, such as wine. These can include olives, crostini (toasted slices of bread), grilled or roasted vegetables and cheese. Chilled white wines such as Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Vernaccia and Soave work well with these appetizers.

Primo piatto, or first course, is a more filling dish than the appetizers and can be a soup, a gnocchi dish, a risotto or other pasta. It’s usually served with a side dish, such as fresh vegetables or a salad.

Aperitif, or appetizers, are eaten before dinner and may consist of cold or hot hors d’oeuvres. These can be accompanied by a glass of alcoholic drink such as a cocktail or sangria.

Secondo piatto, or the main course, is generally a meat or fish dish. The menu will also include a side dish or contorni, such as bread or vegetables, and coffee.

After the meal, Italians often finish with a dessert such as tiramisu or panna cotta. These creamy dolci are often saved for the weekend, and can be enjoyed on a warm evening stroll.