Today let’s talk about holiday foods in Italy. When you think of Italy, images of golden sunshine, rolling vineyards, and warm Mediterranean breezes likely come to mind. But I’ll tell you, the Italian winter holidays I spent with my host family were some of the most heartwarming experiences I’ve ever had.
The holiday table, lovingly prepared by our Nonna, was a feast of tradition, warmth, and joy. Let’s dive in and discover the unforgettable flavors of holiday foods in Italy!
1. Panettone
A staple of Italian Christmas, panettone is a sweet bread loaf originally from Milan. This fluffy treat is typically filled with candied fruits and raisins, giving it a delightful sweetness. Enjoy it with a glass of dessert wine or a cup of coffee, and you’ll understand why it’s a beloved holiday classic.
2. Pandoro
Pandoro, another iconic Italian Christmas dessert, hails from Verona. Unlike panettone, it’s a rich, golden sponge cake without candied fruits or raisins, making it a favorite for those who prefer a simpler, buttery flavor. Its star-shaped form is dusted with powdered sugar, resembling the snow-covered peaks of the Italian Alps.
Serve it warm, sliced horizontally, and enjoy each soft layer, often paired with mascarpone, nutella or pistachio cream.
3. Torrone
Torrone is a nougat confection made with honey, sugar, egg whites, and toasted nuts, often almonds or hazelnuts. It comes in various textures, from soft and chewy to hard and crunchy. This sweet treat is often enjoyed as a dessert or snack during the festive season and makes for a perfect gift.
4. Zuppa di Pesce
This hearty fish soup, also known as frutti di mare which literally means seafood, is made with various seafood simmered in a rich tomato sauce. It’s typically served over pasta and can be customized with your favorite fish and shellfish.
5. Struffoli
These small, deep-fried dough balls are coated in honey and often decorated with colorful sprinkles. Struffoli are a traditional Neapolitan dessert that adds a festive touch to any holiday table. Their sweet flavor and delightful crunch make them irresistible!
6. Ricotta cookies
Soft and slightly sweet, ricotta cheese cookies are often flavored with lemon or orange zest and topped with icing or powdered sugar. These cookies are not only delicious but also symbolize the warmth of Italian holiday baking traditions.
7. Tortellini in Brodo
Tortellini in brodo is a beloved Italian Christmas dish, especially popular in Emilia-Romagna. These small, ring-shaped pasta are filled with a mixture of meat, cheese, and sometimes prosciutto, then served in a clear, flavorful broth.
It’s a warm, comforting dish that perfectly captures the cozy spirit of Italian holiday meals. Each bite of the tender pasta in rich broth is a festive treat that families across Italy cherish during the holiday season.
8. Cotechino con lenticchie
In some regions, especially Emilia-Romagna, cotechino (a type of pork sausage) served with lentils is a traditional New Year’s dish believed to bring good luck for the coming year. The savory flavors of the sausage paired with the earthy lentils make for a comforting meal. And this has now become one of holiday foods in Italy, across the country!
Fun fact
Italian communities around the world have created unique traditions that aren’t commonly observed in Italy.
For instance, the Feast of the Seven Fishes is inspired by traditional Italian customs surrounding La Vigilia, or Christmas Eve, a night when many Italians abstain from meat and instead enjoy a seafood-based meal. This practice is rooted in Roman Catholic tradition, particularly the idea of fasting from meat before religious feasts.
However, the specific “Feast of the Seven Fishes” as a structured, named event—with exactly seven or more seafood dishes—is actually an Italian-American creation. This practice evolved in Italian immigrant communities in the United States, who combined Italian customs with the abundance of seafood available in North America.
In Italy, holiday foods in Italy are often seafood-focused, especially in southern Italy, but they don’t typically follow a set number of dishes or the formal name “Feast of the Seven Fishes”.
To learn more about Italy, beyond holiday foods in Italy, its rich traditions, and how to immerse yourself in its vibrant culture, be sure to visit Go! Go! Italia’s social media.
Follow us for tips, insights, and inspiration as you start on your journey to discover the beauty of Italy as a student.
