When you think about Italian food, your mind may drift to visions of pasta, lasagna, pizza and amazing cafes. However, there are a few other food options that Italy is known for that may not be as appealing to the taste buds. Keep reading to learn about some of these weird foods you may want to try here. 

1. Stuffed Mice with Mince

Yes – this is still a dish that is eaten. Today, the mice are a protected species; however, in the time of ancient Rome, they were stuffed with spices, herbs, nuts, and minced meat. This is still an ancient delicacy and consumed in a small village that’s found in Calabria, in the Southern Italian region. 

2. Maggot Cheese

This is actually sheep milk cheese that is obtained in a very natural way. Thanks to the cheese fly, which have their larvae in the cheese, it’s a natural fermentation process. When the cheese has fermented enough, you can eat it on a thin piece of bread called Carasau. Keep in mind, though, the cheese becomes toxic when the maggots die so you need to eat the cheese while they are alive and, well – jumping. 

3. Tuscan Chicken Liver

This is similar to pate; however, there are some recipes that use chicken hearts and anchovies along with the chicken liver. It isn’t smooth and fancy like the French pate and there are several bits of liver in the dish. Locals really love it. 

4. Songbirds

This isn’t just the little bird that sings to you when the sun comes up – they also get stuffed full of all sorts of meat bits, which includes rabbit, beef, port, and bits of different birds. They are then put on skewers and broiled. Usually, this dish is served with polenta. 

5. Cow Guts

If you venture to Florence, you will be able to eat cleaned guts stewed in broth or spread into bread rolls. This dish may also be served on a plate with herb or spicy sauces. This is actually a dish that is quite good so don’t be afraid give it a try. 

When it comes to weird Italian dishes, there are more than a few to try. Keep in mind, it’s a good idea to get to know what they offer to ensure you don’t get something too weird that’s going to turn your tummy.

By finding the best foods in the area, it is possible to really immerse yourself in the Italian culture and ensure you get the true taste of Italy – regardless of how weird it may be. 

Italy is home to an array of beautiful islands that collectively attract more tourists than France and Switzerland. It also possesses the most sightseeing places in all of Europe. If you are planning to visit this beautiful country, be sure to get to know the six islands of Italy and see which ones you want to visit. 

1. Elba Island, Italy 

Elba is found in the Tuscan region of Italy and has earned its place in history as the island where Napoleon lived during his exile between 1814 and 1815. There’s a museum here that tells you stories all about the notorious French Emperor. 

2. Panarea Island, Italy 

Aeolus was the God of wind and the Aeolian island is where the ancient romans worshipped him. Panarea Island is the smallest of all the Aeolian islands. Due to the thin population and unspoiled beauty, it’s a very popular destination for the rich and famous. 

3. Ischia Island, Italy 

Where the Gulf of Naples and the Mediterranean Sea link is where you can find the volcanic Ischia island. Because it is volcanic, it’s made up of several hot springs that are full of thermal waters containing health-benefiting minerals. You can see the bubbling water by visiting Maronti Beach. 

4. Sardinia Island, Italy 

Located next to Elba, Sardinia is considered the most visited island in the entire country because of its lengthy beach that runs for approximately 2,000 km. While this is true, it’s also made of picturesque mountains that overlook the water below. It is paved, which makes the perfect trails for adventurous hikers. 

5. Sicily Italy 

You have likely heard about Sicily. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in all of Italy. One of the most popular attractions on the island is volcano Mount Etna. Both visitors and residents alike appreciate the power and fury of this volcano. 

6. Capri Island, Italy 

Capri Island is home to the Blue Grotto. It’s a cave found in the Gulf of Naples where you have to board a boat to see the electric blue water lit by the sun. This is another tourist-friendly area with a number of high-end hotels, along with great shops offering some of the highest end belts and shoes, along with heady perfumes and amazing Italian cuisine. 

When it comes to Italy, there are more than a few islands to visit. Be sure to keep the places here in mind so you can plan your trip and enjoy all that this amazing area has to offer. By knowing what to expect, you can easily use the information here to find the best of the best attractions. 

Italy is full of wonders from the past. From the Roman Empire to the Renaissance, visitors can explore art, architecture, and ruins. In fact, Italy has more UNESCO World Heritage sites than any other country. Travelers can also visit the natural beauty of Italy – her lakes, mountains, and gorgeous coastline. If you’re planning a trip to Italy, here are the five top tourist attractions to put on your list.

1. The Colosseum

Whether you’re a history buff or just love everything about the Roman Empire, visiting the Colosseum is a must. This one of a kind gigantic amphitheater is famous throughout the world as being a past sports venue with the most spectacular shows. Explore underneath the Colosseum to see the cells and tunnels the gladiators used, along with where the wild animals were kept.

2. Venice Canals

The romantic city of Venice is a must, especially if you’re on your honeymoon. Take a gondola ride through the ancient canals along a labyrinth of narrow passageways that wind around the city. From this vantage point, you’ll have amazing views of Venice, including her most historic sites.

3. Pompeii

The city that died in an instant, Pompeii is famous for being destroyed by a sudden volcanic eruption in AD 79. In fact, Mt. Vesuvius is still blowing smoke! While the inhabitants of Pompeii perished, the eruption did manage to preserve the city’s art. Such treasures as mosaics, sculptures, and frescoes have been encased in lava that then cooled. Archeologists discovered these treasures two centuries later, along with temples, baths, homes, streets, theaters, and human remains.

4. Pisa

Pisa is itself a famous city, but it’s the Leaning Tower of Pisa that is the most popular attraction here. The tower was built in the 1100s but due to sinking, it began to lean by the time the third story was completed. The tower was expected to topple over by the year 2000 so restoration work began in the 90s. Today, the Leaning Tower of Pisa is stable and visitors can climb the grand stairs to look out over the tower for a spectacular view of the city. While in Pisa, visit the Romanesque Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.

5. Lake Como

Nature lovers will definitely want to make time for a trip to Lake Como. This is where the wealthy Romans of Ancient Rome vacationed. The lake is surrounded by small, quaint towns and beautiful mountains. Along the shore, you will find lavish villas and palaces with some gardens open to the public. The climate is mild, making Lake Como the perfect place to unwind and relax after visiting the buy, historic sites of Rome.

 

 

Do you have a child who is a picky eater? Or just the opposite? A kid who loves to try new foods?

Either way, you’ll score big in the kitchen when you make these Italian dishes that most kids love.

They’re easy to make at home and your kids can even help! Read on to discover some Italian meals that will please everyone’s palate at lunch or dinner time.

1. Spaghetti and Meatballs

Mmmmmm. Noodles. Who doesn’t love noodles? And when you pair them with hearty marina sauce (it’s ok you can use it from the jar) and meatballs, they’re even better. This is an easy meal to make, as well as inexpensive, that your kids will surely love. Give them some tasks, such as stirring the sauce, helping form the meat into balls, and setting the table. Finish the meal with a yummy, fresh salad to help with digestion – the Italian way.

2. Italian Style Pizza

Otherwise known as Neapolitan, this Italian style pizza is sure to make a hit. It is made from a round and flattened (can you say thin crust?) base of leavened wheat-based dough. Top it with tomatoes, cheese, and any other toppings you want. Then bake it. For the kids, have them “decorate” the pizza with their favorite toppings.

3. Roasted Veggies

It can be hard sometimes to get your kids to eat vegetables. But with this Italian recipe, they’ll love their veggies. You can use any veggies you want, so have the kids choose which veggies they’d love to roast, such as baby potatoes, tomatoes, mushrooms, zucchini, and more. Cut and place them together in a large mixing bowl. Add your favorite Italian seasoning and olive oil and then transfer to a lightly-oiled baking sheet and stick them in the oven. Yum.

4. Calzones

Calzones are basically folded pizza. They are made from salted dough and baked in the oven. Stuff them with your kid’s favorite meats and cheese, like pepperoni, salami, ham, parmesan, and mozzarella. Sneak some veggies in there too.

5. Gelato

For dessert, offer this Italian favorite. The main ingredients are milk and cream. The best flavors are vanilla, chocolate, or anything fruit based. If you decide to make it at home, have the kids do the churning. Otherwise, pick some up in the frozen dessert section at your local grocery store for a new twist on dessert time.