Italy is a nation renowned across the world for its lush vistas, unique architecture, and perhaps most importantly of all, its distinct cuisine. While many are at least familiar with popular Italian foods here in America (like pasta, pizza, gelato, and others), many may not be familiar with where such dishes exactly come from. In today’s blog, we’ll be taking a closer look at popular Italian dishes and the places that they emerged from. If that sounds interesting, keep reading below for more information – or for elegant Italian-inspired food in Boston’s historic North End, book a reservation with us at Nico Boston.
Carbonara
Birthplace: Rome, Lazio
Few dishes manage to capture the essence of Italian cuisine (or Roman cuisine in this case) quite as well as Carbonara. Also known as spaghetti alla Carbonara, or fettuccine alla Carbonara, depending on what pasta is used, the dish is refreshingly simple and relatively easy to prepare in kitchens around the world. Carbonara typically consists of several core ingredients: pasta, eggs, hardened cheese, and cured pork (usually guanciale or pancetta).
As is the case with many iconic dishes in Italian cuisine, it’s not exactly certain when and where Carbonara was invented, but most would point to the city of Rome in the Lazio region as its birthplace. One thing is for certain though, and that is the fact that Carbonara is absolutely delicious, and rightfully a staple of Italian-inspired eateries across the globe. There’s nothing quite like a fresh and properly-made Carbonara – consider giving it a try the next time you’re in the mood for Italian-inspired cuisine!
Margherita Pizza
Birthplace: Naples, Campania
It might be hard to imagine a time before the Margherita Pizza, as it has been enjoyed and beloved by many for generations. However, in the latter half of the 19th century, the Margherita Pizza was a new creation from the mind of one Neapolitan baker named Raffaele Esposito. According to historical records, the dish was Esposito’s way of celebrating the visit of then-Queen Margherita of Savoy to the city of Naples. In his creation, Esposito would use ingredients corresponding to the colors of the Italian Republic’s flag, il Tricolore, which were basil (green), mozzarella cheese (white), and crushed San Marzano tomatoes (red). The Margherita Pizza would, of course, go on to become one of the most popular and celebrated dishes that originated from Italy.
Visit Nico in Boston’s Historic North End
Nico serves elegant, Italian-inspired fare in Boston’s historic North End neighborhood. Make a reservation with us today or call us at 617-742-0404.
