Italy is unquestionably an indulgent country and Italians surely know how to live ‘la dolce vita’ I, Julio Herrera, can say that on my personal experience. Wine, cheese, bread, and Gelato are just a few of the amazing foods to taste when visiting this culturally diverse nation.
As a result, several of these products are unquestionably among the greatest Italian souvenirs to bring home with you. Of course, things and products relating to leather goods, festivals, art, and historical locations are also popular. However, for some people, eating and travel are inextricably linked. They prefer food above anything else, therefore if you are a gourmet like them, you may have these delectable objects as an Italian souvenir.
1. Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Whether you’re eating a fantastic slice of pizza or a delicious pasta meal, olive oil is almost always one of the components. And, like wine, olive oil is a traditional Italian keepsake that is easy to transport.
After Spain, Italy is the world’s second-largest producer of olive oil. What could be better than bringing a bottle of olive oil home to replicate your favorite Italian dishes?
2. Truffle (Extract) Oil
Italian truffles are recognized to be among the best in the world. So, what better opportunity to acquire truffle oil at a low cost than when in Italy? My favorite way to use truffle oil is on French Fries! Yes, with a drizzle of truffle oil and freshly grated Italian Parmeggiano, you can transform ordinary potatoes into a spectacular appetizer!
3. Italian Cheese
Although Italy may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about cheese, they certainly know what they’re doing! And each region has a cheese that distinguishes it from the others.
Cheese is one of the greatest Italian souvenirs to give to friends and family. And the fact that it can be converted into a variety of delectable recipes makes it even better to take home for yourself!
4. Chocolate from Italy
While most people associate artisanal chocolate with Belgium or France, Italy also offers a delectable range of gourmet treats. In fact, you won’t have a hard time locating handcrafted chocolates in a variety of vibrant forms and sizes.
5. Italian Sweets or Cookies
Of course, if chocolate isn’t your thing (really?), there are plenty of other Italian treats to choose from. After all, the renowned Italian biscotti, almond biscuits, pizzelle, and even hard candies like marzipan cannot be overlooked.
6. Smoked Meats
Cured meats are yet another favorite gourmet gift from Italy. And like with the cheeses, each area of Italy has its own characteristic cured meat.
There are some examples in Venice, you may purchase some exquisite San Daniele prosciutto, in Milan, salami and bresaola, and in Calabria, you can experience some hot sausages cured with chilly.
7. Herbs & spices from Italy
Many Italian foods use spices such as oregano, basil, parsley, rosemary, sage, and anise. Make a list of your favorite foods and stock up on spices at the local market as you go.
While you could simply buy all of these spices separately at home, many people like to combine them. Spice packets that have been combined and are ready to use in your favorite dishes are available in Italian grocery stores and butcher shops.
Spices are one of the simplest and least expensive gastronomic gifts to carry from Italy.
8. Pasta
Pasta is without a doubt the most well-known Italian dish. As a result, taking some homemade pasta home as a keepsake makes perfect sense!
There are many different varieties of pasta, including those made from wheat or whole grains, as well as ones mixed with vegetables to generate brilliant colors. Of course, if you have a favorite pasta shape, you will find it here as well!
Gnocchi, Linguine, Tagliatelle, Pappardelle, Tortellini, spaghettini, or macaroni are some of the most popular. Or try something new, like Orrechieti, Bucatini, and Cavatelli.
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