Italian culture has always appealed to me. Besides their food, wine, and language, I enjoy their attitude toward life. Unlike Italians, time is often lost in our society because we let it waste away without enjoying it. There is a rush to get somewhere or do something, we overcommit ourselves, overeat, and overdrink, and many people do not spend quality time with those they love. As a society, we worry about everything and don’t find the time to cultivate our spirituality and grow. In addition to taking care of our families’ basic needs, we may be able to connect and enjoy our families during vacation once a year for those who can afford it.
The recent trip I took to Italy taught me that for Italians, meals are a daily ritual that involves various dishes being prepared and shared in a relaxed family setting. Sunday dinner is usually shared by most families after church each week.
This meal begins with a refreshing drink called Spritz. Next is antipasti, an appetizer of cured meats and cheeses. The first course is a pasta or risotto (rice) dish, followed by the second course, usually meat with a small amount of cooked vegetables. Last but not least, dessert is served with either espresso or cappuccino. A shot of grappa or limoncello can be the perfect ending to the meal if you skip the coffee and dessert. A glass of wine is served with lunch and dinner. During a wine tour, a local told us that if there’s no wine with a meal, it’s breakfast!
Veggies and salads are not commonly served, but are available upon request, and salads are not served at the beginning of the meal as in the U.S. It is important to ask your server for the next dish, as they do not come to remove the dish when it is empty, nor ask you if you are ready to move on. Enjoying a meal with loved ones should not be rushed, but enjoyed slowly.
The dining experience is different in the U.S. At restaurants, sometimes the next course arrives before you’ve even finished the previous one. As soon as we finish our last drink, many of us feel compelled to buy more drinks to keep sitting at the table. Meals don’t seem to get the attention they deserve. There are many families, including mine, who watch television or use cell phones during dinner. I am not an exception and don’t want to seem hypocritical. However, after dining in Italy, I’d like to incorporate some of their traditions, such as savoring a great meal and good conversation without interruption. As a result, I believe it can enhance and grow relationships.
http://whatscookingamerica.net/Beverage/ItalianSpritz.htm
I love this post. It really made me think I’d like to incorporate some of these ideas into my life as well.
–Tiffany Panza
I’m glad Tiffany. We are now keeping the television off during dinner and talking. You would not believe all the things you can find out about what’s going on in your teenagers life!