Italy Fundamentals 201

So let’s talk about some stone-cold Italian classics that doesn’t rely on pasta or dumplings as a crutch. Because guess what? Italy has more to offer than just noodles and pockets of stuff. Shocking, I know.

And since no self-respecting Italian meal ends without something sweet, we’ll throw in a couple of desserts too. Because what kind of sociopath skips dessert? (Word of advice: if you’re ever invited to an Italian home, NEVER say you have no room for dessert. That’s like telling Nonna you hate her. Whatever it takes — loosen the belt, undo a button, take a lap around the block — just make it happen.)