Denicola’s Italian Restaurant

How to Make an Authentic Lasagna

2022-03-11

Lasagna dates back to Ancient Rome and is a favorite of many people. We all love this classic Italian dish together with its numerous health benefits. Known for its combination of rich meat, tomato sauce, and cheese, it's both delicious and filling.

With many versions of this classic pasta offered online, how do we make authentic lasagna? Read on to learn how to make this delicious pasta dish.

What Makes an Authentic Lasagna?

If you're aiming for authenticity, use staple Italian ingredients and fresh lasagna sheets. Don't worry because you can find them anywhere. Plus, these ingredients are easy to prep.

Do also note that authentic lasagna is consistent throughout its layers. You don't want your lasagna to come out of the oven in a gloppy mess.

Meat Sauce

The meat sauce is the key to making your lasagna rich in flavor and texture. Let's start by making this meat sauce.

Step 1

In a saucepan, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat setting. Brown the beef mince on all sides for about 5 minutes, working in batches. We recommend mince that's from the beef shin.

Remove from the pan once it's browned and put it aside.

Step 2

Reduce your heat setting to medium. In the same saucepan, sauté the onion and garlic until aromatic for about 2 minutes.

Step 3

Add in the carrots and celery and stir for about 5 minutes. Deglaze with red wine and cook for another 5 minutes. The wine should reduce by half.

Step 4

Add in tomato puree and passata and cook for a few minutes more. Put the browned meat back into the pan, along with some beef stock and bay leaf. Cover and simmer for at least 3 hours, or until the beef is super soft.

White Sauce

The white sauce is the biggest game-changer for this pasta dish. It's not limited to Italian dishes. You'll want to put this white sauce on everything.

Step 1

Melt some butter in a saucepan, and while it's melting, add some flour. Whisk the mixture and cook for about 2 minutes on low heat.

Step 2

Remove the pan from the heat and pour in milk, stirring until it thickens. Set the sauce aside after seasoning with nutmeg, salt, and black pepper to taste.

Assembly

This last step may feel scary, but the assembly process is easy and does not require practice. How do we assemble this lasagna?

Step 1

Layer your meat sauce on the bottom of a baking dish and top it with a layer of lasagna sheet. Don't fret if the sheets overlap.

Step 2

Add another layer of meat sauce, pushing it to the edge with the back of the spoon. Then, add a layer of your white sauce. Sprinkle it with a handful of cheese on top of the white sauce.

Step 3

Continue stacking these layers until you have at least five layers. Cook your lasagna for about 40 minutes.

Cover it with aluminum foil for the first 10-15 minutes. Allow it to cool for 5 minutes after cooking.

Craving Authentic Lasagna?

We hope you learned from this guide how to make authentic lasagna. Now, you can share with your family and friends your creation.

If you're craving more Italian dishes, come to DeNicola's. We're happy to serve you some authentic Italian cuisine.

The Benefits of Eating Garlic (and Why You Should Eat More!)

2022-03-04

An ancient adage states that you should let your food be your medicine, and let your medicine be your food. This rings true today more than ever, in a society where processed food, high fructose corn syrup, and 24-hour fast food drive-thrus are commonplace.

Today, close to 700,000 deaths per year in the United States are attributed to poor diet. Garlic has been revered as a wonder food for centuries for its medicinal properties. Learning the benefits of eating garlic will help you add it to your grocery list.

Below we'll dive into the therapeutic properties and holistic health benefits of garlic so you can change your life for the better.

Garlic Has Antibiotic Properties

Scientific studies show that garlic has several antibiotic properties that can boost your health.

A single clove of garlic holds potent medical powers. These powers were well-known by the ancient Chinese, Egyptians, Greeks, and other past civilizations. The antibiotic properties of garlic fight off toxins, germs, and pathogens.

This herb has been used to fight all sorts of illnesses and infections and provides potent protection against biological invaders.

It's Excellent For Digestive Health

Life can feel cumbersome and burdensome when you're dealing with poor digestion. The potent properties of garlic help with all sorts of digestive issues. Its compounds produce good gut bacteria that have positive effects on the digestive tract.

People take garlic to assist with indigestion, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), nausea, and several other issues. Eating garlic can ease the feeling of sour stomach and unease also.

You'll Have Energy And Overall Wellness

Garlic is an essential ingredient if you're looking to optimize your physical performance.

Athletes take garlic supplements to optimize the way that their organs work, and to prevent premature fatigue from setting in. You can experience the same benefits even if you work a regular 9-to-5 and want a boost.

People are walking around fatigued every day, due largely to the fact that 30 percent of people are getting less than 6 hours of sleep each night. Eating garlic will give you the energy to be productive during the day while helping you sleep better at night.

Garlic Boosts Blood Flow And Libido

Eating garlic is excellent for heart health and circulation. It increases blood flow so that your brain and organs get optimal use of oxygen and nutrients.

People with high blood pressure and cholesterol might benefit from taking garlic supplements or adding more to their diet. This influx of blood flow also bodes well for your sex drive.

It's easier to be in the mood when you have blood flowing and a heart that is unobstructed. Scientific studies show that garlic can also have positive effects on your libido.

Embrace The Benefits Of Eating Garlic

The tips above will help you out when you're considering the benefits of eating garlic. Do everything that you can to eat a balanced, healthy diet, and start looking to add fresh garlic to your meals.

If you love Italian food, we have plenty of delicious dishes that have garlic as a key ingredient.

DeNicola's Authentic Italian Restaurant has been a mainstay in the Portland area for many years. Stop by to check out our fine cuisine and feel free to contact us for more information.

10 Essential Italian Ingredients for Italian Cooking

2022-02-03

Did you know that the most popular cuisine in the US is Italian?

This is no surprise, considering that the cuisine has plenty of flavorful dishes perfect for any occasion. Authentic Italian food uses only the freshest ingredients, making every recipe irresistible.

If you want to celebrate Italian culture by cooking some fantastic food, you've come to the right place. Keep reading for 10 Italian ingredients you should always have in hand to satisfy all of your cravings!

10 Essential Italian Ingredients

Whether you are craving pasta, gnocchi, or risotto, a key to the best Italian food is fresh and seasonal ingredients. So, if you are planning on cooking an Italian dinner, make sure to avoid processed jars of sauce, and pick out these ingredients instead:

1. Pasta

Pasta comes in all shapes and sizes, and it is the star of a lot of Italian dishes. Whether you make it yourself using flour, eggs, and olive oil or buy it pre-made, pasta is something you should always have around if you want your Italian dinner to be unforgettable!

2. Garlic

Garlic is used in most Italian dishes- especially sautéed with oil. For the best results, make sure to stay away from jarred garlic and stick to fresh cloves instead.

3. Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil will add a delicious flavor to any Italian dish (almost every Italian recipe asks for this ingredient). You can also use it to garnish the final plate or serve it with bread as a simple yet irresistible appetizer.

4. Balsamic Vinegar

If you are thinking about making a simple Italian salad, you cannot forget to add some balsamic vinegar. This Italian ingredient adds a lot of depth to food and creates spectacular flavor combinations (try it with figs or Parmigiano Reggiano).

5. Fresh Tomatoes

Whether you are making a pasta sauce or salad, having fresh tomatoes in hand will make all the difference! Stop buying jarred sauce, and create your own for a more authentic approach.

6. Basil

Basil is an essential herb in Italian cuisine. Use it to add depth of flavor or garnish your dishes!

7. Oregano

Oregano is another delicious Italian herb commonly used in sauces. Add some dry oregano to your favorite recipe for an added earthy flavor.

8. Cheese

Cheese is used in many Italian recipes, including various pasta dishes and pizza! Some of the most common Italian cheeses include mozzarella, gorgonzola, ricotta, Parmigiano Reggiano.

9. Porcini Mushrooms

Porcini mushrooms are widely used in Italian dishes to create a rich flavor profile. These mushrooms are also used to add a meat-like component to many vegetarian dishes.

10. Wine

Although Italian cuisine is always better with a glass of wine, wine is also used in food to add richness. Italians love to use wine for cooking meat and sauces (add some red wine to your red sauce for a dramatic improvement!)

Looking for Inspiration?

Now that you know about these 10 Italian ingredients, you'll be able to make some unforgettable dishes!

If you are in Portland, Oregon, and want to try out some authentic Italian food before cooking your own, give us a call and book a table!

Authentic Italian Food: 5 Delicious Italian Dishes That You Should Try

2022-01-27

Would you be surprised by the fact that 84% of people say that Italian food is their favorite type of cuisine?

Even though America may be known as the land of burgers and fries, nobody can deny the allure of Italian dishes. The simple but fresh ingredients and the love that goes into making each meal show in the final products.

Have you ever dreamed of giving your taste buds a tour of Italy's finest offerings to the world? Keep reading this guide to find out 5 authentic Italian food options that you need to experience at least once in your life.

1. Hand-Crafted Pizza

Pizza is often the first thing that comes to people's minds when they imagine Italian recipes, but the sad fact is that many Americans get their pizza fix from chains. Not only do these restaurants lack personality and flavor, but the ingredients aren't as fresh as they could be.

Sinking your teeth into an artisanal pie that was handmade with care will make you never want to order from a chain again.

2. Fresh Pasta

Boxed pasta and jarred sauces sure are convenient, but you can't develop complex flavor profiles with these ingredients. Italians take pride in making their pasta shapes and sauces all from scratch.

From classic marina to luxurious alfredo and refreshing pesto, there are so many lovely combinations that you need to explore.

3. Meatball Sub

Spaghetti and meatballs always hit the spot, but some people like to jazz things up. If you love the flavors of spaghetti and meatballs but want to create a more satisfying bite, then you have to treat yourself to a hefty meatball sub.

The fresh bread paired with rich cheese, zesty sauce, and moist meatballs will transport you straight to heaven.

4. Oven-Roasted Chicken

Authentic Italian foods are all about letting a handful of superstar ingredients shine. You may feel like you've already had enough chicken to last a lifetime, but Italian cooking methods will open new doors for you.

By coating the chicken in olive oil, herbs, cheese, and other sensational seasonings then cooking the meat slowly, you end up with the juiciest and most flavorful chicken ever.

5. Minestrone Soup

Who says that soups need to have meat in them to fill you up? Minestrone soups are the tastiest way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.

While minestrone is a spectacular dish all on its own, you can take the decadence to a whole new level by serving it with some crunchy bread for dunking.

Are You Craving Some Authentic Italian Food Now?

It's no secret that Italians are magicians in the kitchen. Since this list of must-try authentic Italian food only scratches the surface, you can get excited about diving even deeper into the delicious world of Italian food.

Has all this talk about authentic Italian dishes made you hungry? If so, the good news is that here at DeNicola's Authentic Italian Restaurant, we offer all of these mouthwatering meals and so much more. Check out our menu so you can figure out what you'd like to try first.

7 Signs of Real Italian Food

2022-01-10

It would be a sin to talk about the world's greatest cuisines without Italian. Our beloved pizza Napoletana even made it onto UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list. That should tell you all you need to know.

But how do you know you've found real Italian food?

Here are 7 tips to help you chow down on the real deal before you can say buon appetito!

1. Seasonal Ingredients Cooked to Perfection

Authentic Italian food uses fresh, seasonal produce in its dishes. This keeps things natural, and only quality ingredients make it into your meal.

Plump tomatoes, crunchy asparagus, and aromatic basil help create those flavors for which Italian food is famous. Tender zucchini deserves its place on your plate too.

2. They Serve Traditional Italian Dishes

Lasagna, pizza, and ravioli are Italian staples for a reason. They are delicious and nutritious when cooked by a real Italian restaurant.

Whether you're a meat lover, a vegetarian, or a vegan, real Italian food will satisfy you. How about an eggplant parmigiana? Or why not warm up with hearty minestrone soup and crusty bread?

3. Italians Eat There

A rule of thumb for finding the best restaurants is to check who is eating there. If people from that culture approve, it is probably delicious.

Italian food in Portland, Oregon goes back over a century. So we've had time to savor the real thing. If you crave real Italian food, go where the Italians go.

4. They Serve Proper Pizza

Forget your hundred toppings smothered in cheese. Quality dough, kneaded to perfection, Pomodorino or San Marzano tomatoes, and a little buffalo mozzarella are all a pizza needs.

There are even rules set by Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, right down to the type of flour. How's that for authentic?

5. Several Courses Served at the Right Times

An Italian meal can have 6 or more courses, with plenty of time to relax and talk. Some meals can last all evening.

The best Italian restaurants never rush their food or their customers. Feel free to spend the evening eating Italian classics and catching up with friends.

A stiff espresso or lungo will pick you up when it's time to head home.

6. Real Italian Cooking Techniques

Al dente pasta should be firm to the bite. And chefs simmer sauces for hours before they reach your plate, so flavors have time to develop.

Many Italian dishes start as a soffrito: fresh onion, carrot, and celery sauteed in olive oil. Italian chefs build their dish from this aromatic base. So when you take your first bite, you can savor every flavor.

7. They Keep Things Simple

Real Italian food loves bold flavors and simple combinations. Its fresh ingredients don't need 12 extras. When cooked right, 5 or 6 are all you need, with a pinch of salt and pepper to season them.

Simplicity and freshness are cornerstones of authentic Italian food. And the best restaurants know this.

Craving Real Italian Food Classics?

We hope our guide helped you pick out real Italian food from the thousands of choices. We also hope it got your tastebuds tingling.

If you're craving authentic Italian classics, come visit DeNicola's. We're a family-owned Italian restaurant in Portland, Oregon. And we'd love to cook you up a taste of our real Italian Food.

Give us a call and book a table today.

7 Italian Classics Everyone Should Try

2022-01-03

Italian food is known around the world and for all the right reasons. Thanks to its high-quality ingredients, simplicity, variety, affordability, and incredible taste, Italian food is hugely popular.

If you are wondering what Italian dish you should try next, then this blog post is for you.

Here we have 7 incredible-tasting Italian classics that everyone should try at least once. From Tortellini and ravioli to lasagna and gnocchi, there is something for everyone when it comes to Italian dishes.

1. Fettuccine

We all associate Italians with pasta and fettuccine is an extremely popular choice. Made from thick and flat pasta made from eggs and flour, it's highly versatile. It can be paired with Alfredo sauce, basil pesto Alfredo sauce, and Mezza Mezza sauce as well as with chicken breast.

2. Tortellini

Tortelli is another popular type of pasta, which comes from the Italian region of Emilia. It is traditionally stuffed with meat, cheese, nutmeg, and egg, and served in capon broth. Pure heaven!

3. Ravioli

While we are on the subject of great Italian pasta, we have to mention ravioli. This Tuscan dish is simple and highly versatile. It is generally filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables and is served with a sauce or broth.

4. Gnocchi

Gnocchi is a type of dumpling that is made out of potatoes and can be served with a variety of different sauces and toppings. Our gnocchi can be served with meat sauce, basil pesto Alfredo sauce, or Mezza Mezza sauce. It's a really comforting dish and full of flavor.

5. Cannelloni

We can't make a list of real Italian cuisine without mentioning cannelloni, now could we? It's similar to lasagna, though they are tube-shaped whereas lasagna is flat. Our cannelloni is stuffed with meat and covered with delicious meat sauces and melted cheeses.

6. Manicotti

Manicotti is an Italian American dish that literally means 'little sleeves'. They are stuff, typically with ricotta cheese, covered with meat sauce and melted cheeses, and baked to perfection. It is a similar dish to the above-mentioned cannelloni.

7. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Last (but not least) on our list is a traditional Italian pasta dish that originated in Naples. It is a simple yet elegant dish that consists of olive oil, garlic, and romano cheese tossed with cooked pasta. Simply perfect!

Italian Classics Everyone Should Try

All of the above Italian classics are available from our menu here at DeNicolas Authentic Italian. We are a family-owned restaurant that has been part of the Portland dining scene for the last 40 years. It's safe to say that when it comes to Italian food, we know a thing or two!

We would love to welcome you to our Italian restaurant on Powell Blvd so you can discover for yourself why Italian food is so universally loved. If you would like to get in touch, simply call us at (503) 239-5221 or contact us here.

Calzone vs Pizza: The Ultimate Italian Food Battle

2021-12-07

Imagine a battle where both sides are winners. That's right, whichever side you come down on, pizza or calzone, you've made a great choice.

What exactly is a calzone? Why would I ever order it over pizza? And what key differences should you be aware of?

The gloves are off - let's get down to the battle of calzone vs pizza.

What Is a Calzone?

Calzone in Italian roughly translates as 'pant leg'. Not helping you much? Well, neither will the common mistranslation, 'folded pizza'.

A calzone - also known as panzerotti - is really a pizza turnover. After making the pizza base, the chef only puts fillings on half of the pizza. The remaining half of the dough is then pulled over the fillings to form a pocket before baking.

The result is a half-moon-shaped pizza dome. Inside is a piping hot amalgam of all of the fillings - pizza sauce, meats, cheese, and herbs.

It's often served smothered in tomato sauce or with a dipping sauce on the side. It truly is the best of Italian food.

The Difference Between Calzone and Pizza

The dough is the same, the fillings/toppings are the same. So what is the difference between a calzone and a pizza?

Apart from the obvious shape difference, the main difference is how you eat them.

Pizza naturally cuts into easy slices. It's the ultimate portable food, and it's great for sharing. Calzone - not so much.

A calzone is more of a personal experience or a romantic meal for two. You'll need a knife and fork (some would say you need them for pizza too).

You'll experience a range of textures - a melting middle, and chewy crimped edges.

For many people, this is the allure of calzone. But if you're out for dinner with the kids, pizza is probably an easier option.

Pros and Cons of Pizza and Calzone

With pizza, it's easy to find pros and tough to find cons. The same is true of calzone.

The pros of pizza are clear - the satisfying chew of perfectly cooked dough, the tang of tomato sauce, the indulgence of melted cheese. All with a huge range of choices in toppings.

Calzone shares all of these great pros. It's also easier to transport because everything is neatly contained inside the pizza dough shell.

The cons? Well, they're definitely a treat rather than an everyday food. And for some people, having to use a knife and fork is a turn-off with calzone.

Calzone vs Pizza - The Final Word

Both pizza and calzone have their die-hard fans. Also, don't be fooled into thinking calzone is an American invention.

It's just as Italian as pizza. They even sell a popular fried version in southern Italy.

Everyone should try calzone at least once before making a decision. You may just find that you become a convert to these souped-up pizza pockets!

The Verdict: Pizza or Calzone?

The battle of pizza vs calzone really comes down to personal preference.

If you've got time, and don't need to share with a crowd, grab yourself a calzone. It's something everyone should try at least once. You'll probably find that once isn't nearly enough.

Head down to De Nicola's Authentic Italian to sample pizza and panzerotti (our version of calzone) done right. We have a range of family favorites, or you can create your own pizza.

An Italian Food Lover's Guide to the Different Types of Stuffed Pasta

2021-11-30

What's better than a steaming hot bowl of pasta in sauce?

You guessed it! A steaming hot bowl of Italian stuffed pasta in sauce! No wonder delicious tortelli stuffed pasta is one of the ten most popular pasta dishes in Italy!

What other mouthwatering types of filled pasta should be on your 'to try' list? Let's take a journey through the best stuffed pastas from Italy that you've got to try!

Tortellini

Tortellini is the quintessential Italian pasta with filling. In fact, it probably deserves an article all of its own.

This ring-shaped stuffed pasta originally comes from Emilia in Northern Italy. It's been a firm favorite since the 17th century. They are made by hand - a true labor of love.

Traditionally stuffed with ricotta cheese, the Italians didn't let their imagination stop there. You can find all kinds of delicious cured meats also making an appearance, such as mortadella and prosciutto.

Traditionally they come with a simple sage and butter sauce. Today, many people enjoy them with a light cream sauce. For the ultimate indulgence, enjoy them baked with meat sauce and melted cheese.

Ravioli

Fast fact for you - one ravioli is a raviolo. But let's face it, who ever ordered just one?

They are possibly the simplest, but certainly some of the most delicious types of filled pasta Italy has given us. They are simply two thin sheets of pasta with a filling, crimped into small pockets, and then served with a meat sauce.

Traditionally they are filled with ricotta cheese or meat. The tender pasta gives way to an explosion of cheesy, meaty goodness inside. A perfect contrast to the tang of the tomato-based sauce.

They're satisfying and hearty, and sure to please the most discerning of foodies!

Manicotti

Manicotti is a form of Italian pasta with filling that was actually developed in the United States. Literally meaning 'little sleeves', these tubes of pasta are stuffed with ricotta, meat, spinach, or a combination.

Ravioli and tortellini can be served baked or on their own with sauce. However, manicotti is strictly a baked delight. It's comfort food served in a meaty, cheesy, bubbling sauce.

Cannelloni

Cannelloni is a close cousin of manicotti. This dish originated in Italy. Unlike manicotti, the cannelloni are made from sheets of pasta wrapped around the filling.

They tend to be a little thinner and shorter than manicotti. They are also baked to perfection and usually come with a rich meat filling.

Indulge in Stuffed Pasta at De Nicola's Authentic Italian

Are you ready to move away from spaghetti and penne and into the world of stuffed pasta? Believe us, you will not regret it. Now you know your cannelloni from your tortellini, it's time to place your order!

For the best stuffed pasta, head down to De Nicola's. We've been a Portland institution for decades. We delight in bringing you the most authentic and delicious Italian dishes you've ever had.

5 Italian Foods to Try Before You Die

2021-11-15

A recent report by the National Restaurant Association showed that 61% of Americans eat Italian cuisine at least once a month.

Italian food is more popular than ever - and it's not hard to see why. With so much variety on offer, from the classics to extravagant cuisine dishes, there really is something for every pallet.

Don't miss out on all the delights Italian food has to offer. If you learn about these foods now, you'll be able to enjoy Italian food the way it was meant to be.

Our helpful guide shows you the top five Italian foods you have to try at least once. Read on to find out more.

1. Pizza

Almost everyone has tried pizza at least once.

Modern pizza is a classic dish that evolved from the traditional flatbread recipes of Naples. A wood-fired sourdough base is topped with a rich tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese and finished with your choice of toppings.

Pizza is often the first step into the wide world of Italian foods.

2. Lasagne

Lasagne is rich, flavourful, and indulgent.

Originating from middle-age Naples, the layered combination of bolognese sauce, bechamel, and sheet pasta has been a favorite ever since.

Lasagne is the best Italian cuisine for those wishing to experience rustic Italian dining at its finest. Check out our menu to try our delicious Lasagne Alla Napolitana, available with either rich meat sauce or fresh spinach and ricotta.

3. Eggplant Parmigiana

To call Eggplant Parmigiana delicious would be an understatement. Meet vegetarian comfort food at its finest.

Thin slices of fresh eggplant are layered with a rich tomato and basil sauce, then topped with molten cheese to create this low-carb yet indulgent Southern Italian staple.

Our Eggplant Parmigiana will have even the most avid meat-eaters coming back for more.

4. Minestrone

Minestrone is a hearty Italian soup made with vegetables and traditional bread.

Originating from the rustic culinary traditions of Italy, minestrone typically features chard, kale, cannellini beans, and red onions. The soup is served piping hot with a sprinkling of choice parmesan cheese.

Minestrone is the pinnacle of rustic Italian comfort food. Enjoy it with crusty Italian bread like ciabatta or focaccia.

5. Gelato

Much more than just ice cream, gelato has a rich history in Italy.

Popularized in the 1600s, gelato has lower fat content than other ice creams. Using more milk and an artisan production method, gelato maestros produce a superior flavor and texture in their product.

Gelato is available in a huge range of flavors, from plain vanilla to zesty lemon and cool mint. What better way to finish your next Italian dining experience?

Try Italian Foods Today

So, those are the top five Italian foods you have to try.

Italian cuisine really does have something for everyone. From crispy pizzas to decadent desserts, we have you covered.

DeNicola's Authentic Italian Restaurant is an institution in Italian dining. We have been serving the finest dishes from all over Italy for decades.

If you're in the Portland area, contact us today to book a table or conference room. Buon appetito!

A Match Made in Heaven: 5 Italian Food and Wine Pairings

2021-10-27

No Italian meal is complete without the perfect glass of wine. Wine is a vital part of Italian culture; it's a conversation piece, a necessary comfort, and the perfect complement to the rich cuisine of Italy.

In order to have an enriching and authentic Italian dining experience, you need to delve into the wonderful world of Italian wine. In the wine world, there's a simple saying: "If it grows together, it goes together!"

Keep reading, and we'll tell you about five of the best Italian wines and their ultimate dinner pairings.

1. Pinot Grigio and Pesto

Pinot Grigio is a staple white wine of Northern Italy. When it comes to white wine pairings, you can't go wrong with Pinot Grigio and pesto.

Pinot Grigio has a robust yet crisp and herbaceous flavor, making it the perfect complement to the green earthiness of pesto. The tanginess of lemon and garlic will combine perfectly with the zippiness of the pinot grigio.

2. Sauvignon Blanc and Primavera

Sauvignon Blanc pairs quite well with a fresh, vegetable-laden pasta primavera. Sauvignon Blanc is dry, subtle, and floral, which will bring out the brightness of fresh vegetables in your dinner.

As a general rule, white wines pair best with meals that feature fresh herbs or vegetables because they are light and have a fresh flavor themselves.

3. Cabernet Sauvignon and Red Sauce

Though Cabernet Sauvignon is traditionally a French wine, Tuscany-grown varieties are immensely popular today. Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most trustworthy red wine pairings in Italian cuisine.

Cabernet Sauvignon pairs well with any red sauce, whether it contains meat or not. Red sauces are hearty and acidic enough to stand up to a robust, full-bodied red wine such as this one.

4. Rosé and Seafood

You might not think to pair rosé with any Italian foods. However, a floral rosé pairs beautifully with shrimp scampi, branzino, and any other Italian seafood dish.

The subtle sharpness of a rosé serves to cut through the buttery richness of a perfectly cooked piece of fish. This also makes rosé a great choice for your appetizer course if you're having mussels or calamari.

5. Vin Santo and Tiramisu

There is no other Italian sweet as iconic as tiramisu. This traditional Italian dessert pairs best with the unusually sweet, amber-colored dessert wine Vin Santo.

Vin Santo has notes of sugary-sweet fruits such as figs and dates. It prepares your palate for the sweetness of whipped cream while offsetting the bitterness of espresso and cocoa powder.

Excite Your Palate With These Italian Food and Wine Pairings

You can't go wrong with any of these Italian food and wine pairings. Once you get a taste of these classic combinations, you'll become an Italian wine snob in no time.

Want this luxurious dining experience without the effort of cooking? Order an authentic Italian meal for delivery or carry-out from Denicola's Italian Restaurant.