Italian culture has always appealed to me. Beyond their food, wine, and language, I admire their approach to life. Unlike Italians, we often let time slip away without truly enjoying it. There’s a constant rush to get somewhere or accomplish something. We overcommit ourselves, overeat, overdrink, and frequently fail to spend meaningful time with those we love. Many of us rarely take the time to nurture our spirituality or grow personally. For most, connecting with family may only happen during a yearly vacation, if we can afford it.
My recent trip to Italy taught me that meals are much more than sustenance, they are a daily ritual. Families prepare and share various dishes in a relaxed, unhurried setting. Sunday dinner, usually following church, is a tradition in many households.
A typical Italian meal begins with a refreshing drink called a Spritz, followed by antipasti, which often includes cured meats and cheeses. The first course, or primo, is usually a pasta or risotto dish, followed by the second course, or secondo, typically a meat dish with a small serving of cooked vegetables. Dessert comes last, accompanied by espresso or cappuccino. If coffee and dessert are skipped, a shot of grappa or limoncello provides the perfect ending. Wine is served with both lunch and dinner, so much so that a local once joked during our wine tour that if there’s no wine, it’s considered breakfast!
Vegetables and salads aren’t typically served but are available upon request, and they do not appear at the start of a meal as in the U.S. In Italy, it’s customary to ask the server when you’re ready for the next course, as dishes are not cleared automatically. Meals are meant to be savored slowly, and conversation is a key part of the experience.
Dining in the U.S. is often very different. At restaurants, the next course may arrive before you’ve even finished the previous one. Drinks are often ordered continuously just to remain at the table. Meals frequently lack the attention and reverence they deserve. Many families, including mine, watch television or check their phones during dinner, myself included at times.
After experiencing dining in Italy, I am inspired to adopt some of these traditions: savoring each course, engaging in uninterrupted conversation, and truly enjoying a meal with loved ones. I believe this approach can deepen relationships and enhance the joy of sharing time together.
http://whatscookingamerica.net/Beverage/ItalianSpritz.htm
I love this post. It really made me think I’d like to incorporate some of these ideas into my life as well.
–Tiffany Panza
I’m glad Tiffany. We are now keeping the television off during dinner and talking. You would not believe all the things you can find out about what’s going on in your teenagers life!