5 Ways to Savour Summer Like Italians with Delicious Italian Food

Summer in Italy is a time when the entire country comes to life. From endless outdoor adventures to delicious Italian food items; an Italian summer is all you need to make you feel truly alive. A hike, a family day by the beach, cooking meals together, and festive family gatherings, the Italians do summer al fresco - in the open air.

Simplicity has always been key, especially in the food culture, and Italian cuisine is where you can see it take the top spot. Italian products are easily available, convenient to use, long-lasting, first-rate quality, and let’s not forget - delizioso. While Italians are known to be excellent hosts, they also tend to admire those who know how to “fare la bella figura”— make a good impression— by having knowledge about their culinary landscape. 

After the Roman Empire went out of rule, the different regions of Italy created their own unique culinary identities that still exist today. Summer is the season in Italy during which the most produce comes to life. Italian food products have their origins in different regions of the country and some specifically fresh produce that is grown in the summers are tomatoes, garlic, basil, oregano, and many more.

Imagine having the most authentic ingredients and dishes native to different regions in Italy. Just imagine - risotto in Milan, pizza in Naples, seafood in Sardinia, and much more. Well, we’re already daydreaming of an Italian vacation!

If you want to live summers in the culinary fashion that Italians do, we’ve got 5 ways (read - Italian food products) that you absolutely cannot go wrong with. 

1. Make Fresh Tomato Bruschetta

Nothing calls out Italian food more clearly than a classic Tomato Bruschetta. Ideal for a summer gathering with friends, this dish is easy to make, filled with fresh yet wholesome ingredients, and flavourful. Mixed with chopped pieces of fresh tomatoes, mixed together with garlic, basil, olive oil, and vinegar, and served on Italian bread, this is just like having summer on a toast!

Bruschetta originated in Ancient Rome. It was a time when olive farmers used to carry their olives to a nearby local olive press, get them processed, and then taste these fresh samples by using a slice of bread.

You can try out our Sourdough Bread or our Herbed Crostini if you want to have a more authentic experience with Italian bread. 

2. Sip on Aperol Spritz

Enjoy the golden hour with a cocktail that tastes and looks just like an Italian sunset in a glass - Aperol Spritz. Bubbly, zesty, and refreshing, this Italian cocktail is best enjoyed during aperitivo hour, while celebrating the end of a sunny long workday with friends. Made with a mere 4 ingredients - Aperol, Prosecco (sparkling wine), club soda, and a slice of orange - this drink makes the perfect combo with our Aperitivo Kit.

This cocktail originated in the Italian city of Padua and the liquor then grew further to become a beloved apéritif in Padua. The Aperol Spritz was also particularly popular during the elite era of the 1950s in Northern Italy.

3. Enjoy a Refreshing Caprese Salad

Thick slices of tomato and mozzarella, flavored with fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic make up this simple but impressive salad. It is a perfect fusion of freshness, textures, and taste. Pair it up with our Burnt Garlic and Olive Focaccia Bread and enjoy it as a nutritious mid-afternoon meal. 

This salad gets its name from the island of Capri. There are two common stories about its origin, one being a homage to the Italian flag, and the other being about it being made to appease the palates of vacationing royalty and politicians in the 20th Century. 

4. Seas the Day with Some Seafood

On days when you’re hosting a family gathering at home, what better entrees to have than seafood? You can grill some fish and prawns and season them with our Cheese and Chilli Seasoning to make a meal that is mouthwatering and thoroughly enjoyed by everyone, from grandmothers to children. 

Almost all the coastal cities of Italy are known for their seafood, but particularly the city of Pescara, one of Italy’s most scenic regions, is known for its widely available seafood of the best quality.

5. Serve Tiramisu for Dessert

Tiramisu, being a classic Italian dessert, is made by whipping together egg yolks, sugar, rum, mascarpone, and whipped cream, followed by then layering it up with ladyfingers soaked in coffee. Tiramisu is a great make-ahead dessert for special occasions. The word ‘tiramisu’ translates to ‘pick-me-up’ and it truly is a summer dessert that gives you the sugar rush you need. Try our (alcohol-free) Tiramisu, today. 

Tiramisu’s origin is disputed between the Italian regions Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia and has grown to become the most popular dessert in many cities of Italy. 

You can get your hands on all these authentic Italian products for your kitchen from our Italian food online delivery store. Be it pasta, dips, sauces, desserts, and snacks, we have just what you need. 

If you want to experience and discover the Italian philosophy of food, i.e. ‘less is more’, then Sorrentina’s range of nonna-approved products - crafted by seasoned chefs - is just what you need.

Order some of our best sellers today. Follow us on Instagram @sorrentina_honestlyitalian to learn more about all things that are ‘honestly Italian’.

Also Read - ‘Less is more’: Understanding How The Italians Eat.