The World | Europe | Italy

Italian cuisine is well known throughout the world, and although there are many regional specialties, overall, the food is always recognizably Italian. Staple foods are cereals, especially wheat and corn; vegetables; and cheese. Bread, pasta, polenta (made from cornmeal), and rice are commonly used. Italy grows a great variety of vegetables, with tomatoes, eggplant, and zucchini found in many traditional recipes. Each region produces cheese, which is used in fillings, sauces, and even sprinkled in soups. Fish and pork are favorites and are cooked in delicious and imaginative ways. Onion, garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs give Italian cuisine its special flavor. Italy is also known for its fine wines, which are often used in cooking.