Italian food is the most popular cuisine in the world. With pizza and pasta widely recognized as Italian restaurant favorites, it may come as a surprise that these famous dishes and the culture that shaped them may have more to them than you'd think. Here is a guide to Italian food facts.

Interesting Facts About Italian Food

1. Spaghetti and Meatballs Is Not an Italian Dish 

This not-so-classic Italian entree is the product of Italian American immigrants who arrived in the U.S. between 1880 and 1920. In America, meat was affordable, which was unlike the political and economic circumstances in Italy. 

Spaghetti and meatballs became a staple for immigrant families. The traditional pasta you would find at a genuine Italian restaurant doesn't typically have a meat topping or sauce unless it's "al forno," which translates to "cooked in an oven."

2. Traditional Italian Pizza Is Simple 

Although there are certainly variations of different types of pizza, an authentic Italian pie always has a thin crust. A thick, spongy crust is an adaptation created outside of Italy.

A traditional Italian pizza consists of simple ingredients like homemade tomato sauce, mozzarella, and fresh basil. Meanwhile, American versions can have upwards of five toppings or more. 

3. Walking While Eating Is a Faux Pa

Many people visit Italy to experience the culture and enjoy the delicious cuisine. If you want to immerse yourself in the Italian way, you'll have to kick any habits of eating on the run while in town.

Walking while eating is considered very disrespectful to the hands that prepared it. When enjoying Italian food, sit, savor, and slow down to experience the symphony of flavors and textures. 

Transport yourself to the charm and romance of Italy for a meal at Capriccio Ristorante. Located in Pembroke Pines, FL, this Italian restaurant is known for its award-winning cuisine, timeless cocktail and wine selection, and live entertainment. Whether you're enjoying an intimate dinner or corporate luncheon, the old-world charm will have you convinced you've just wandered in from the Via del Corso. To see the full menu, visit them online. For more information on booking an event, call (954) 432-7001.