Everyone knows that Italians eat differently than Americans do. But what does that mean exactly? What is different about 'eating Italian'? The biggest difference is in how the two countries think of meals. Americans tend to think of meals as something we need to do to survive, more and more people are eating on the go, over sinks or not really eating at all. Italians, however, know the importance of setting down with family and friends to a good, home cooked meal. These meals tend to turn into events that can last several hours or more.

There are several courses to an event meal in Italy, starting with appetizers and ending in dessert. While an everyday meal usually consists of 1 or 2 courses, a holiday or special occasion meal often has 4 courses or more.

The first course is the aperitifs, which is an alcoholic drink that is used to stimulate the appetite. The next part of the meal is the antipasto, or before the meal, and is what we would call appetizers, this part of the meal can be served either hot or cold. This is followed by the third course (we often consider it the first course), of hot soup or pasta.

Finally, the second dish, or main course is served. The main course is traditionally a meat of some sort, served with a side dish of cooked vegetables or a salad. The meat that is served tends to vary depending upon the region or the time of year. Beef has not been a traditional meat in Italy, but is gaining popularity.

After the main course is finished, it is time to move on to the third course. The third course, is in fact, the first dessert. This is a light serving of local cheeses paired with in season fruits. It is kept intentionally light to allow the body to digest the meal before moving on to the heavier dessert.

The next part of the meal is the Dolce, the second dessert. This dessert portion of the meal is often heavier, consisting of cakes, pies or puddings and brings us to the closing of the meal. Italians like to end their meals with coffee and discussion.


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