A Taste of Spring: What Italians Eat in the Freshest Season

Spring in Italy is a joyous affair, bursting with vibrant colours and the promise of warmer days. And just like the landscape, Italian cuisine undergoes a delightful transformation, embracing the season's bounty. Let Carluccio's help you dive into some of the most beloved spring dishes enjoyed across the Italian peninsula.

Fresh Spring Vegetable's Perfect with Pasta Or Risotto

1. Asparagus:

• Why it's a spring star: Italy boasts a wide variety of asparagus, from the delicate white ones to the robust green spears.
• How to enjoy it:
  • Simple is best: Grilled, steamed, or simply sautéed with olive oil, garlic, and a squeeze of lemon.
  • Risotto: Creamy risotto with asparagus and Parmigiano-Reggiano is a classic for a reason.
  • Pasta: Asparagus pairs beautifully with pasta, whether it's fettuccine with asparagus and pancetta or bucatini with clams and asparagus.

2. Artichoke:

• A Roman specialty: While enjoyed throughout Italy, artichokes are particularly celebrated in Rome.
• Cooking methods:
  • Fried: Roman-style "carciofi alla romana" are deep-fried and served hot.
  • Steamed: Steamed artichokes are a simple and delicious way to enjoy them.
  • Stuffed: Stuffed artichokes with breadcrumbs, herbs, and cheese are a flavourful option.

3. Fava Beans:

• A Tuscan treat: Fava beans are a staple of Tuscan cuisine.
• Culinary delights:
  • Crema di fave: A creamy fava bean soup or purée.
  • Pasta: Enjoy them with pasta, such as our Bucatini al Bronzo or Filotea Pappardelle.
  • Salads: Add them to fresh spring salads for a burst of flavour and protein.

4. Wild Greens:

• Foraging finds: Spring brings an abundance of wild greens, such as dandelion, nettles, and chicory.
• Culinary uses:
  • Pesto: Create a vibrant green pesto with wild greens instead of basil.
  • Soups: Add them to soups and stews for a flavourful boost.
  • Omelettes: Incorporate them into omelettes for a healthy and delicious breakfast.

Italians love their spring lamb!

5. Spring Lamb:

• Seasonal delight: Spring lamb is a seasonal delicacy in many parts of Italy.
• Cooking methods:
  • Roasted: Slow-roasted lamb is a classic for special occasions.
  • Grilled: Grilled lamb chops are a perfect option for a spring barbecue.
  • Stuffed: Stuffed lamb rolls with herbs and seasonal vegetables are a delicious choice.

Fresh fruits... Italian style

6. Fruits:

• Sweet treats: Spring brings an abundance of fresh fruits, such as strawberries, cherries, and apricots.
  • Enjoy them fresh: Simply enjoy them on their own or with a dollop of  mascarpone or whipped cream.
  • Desserts: Use them to create delicious desserts, such as crostata (fruit tart) or sorbetto.

Italian Wines for The Spring Season

7. Wines:

• Pairing perfection: Spring is the perfect time to enjoy light and refreshing wines, such as:
  • White wines: Pinot Grigio, Vermentino, and Soave.
  • Rosé wines: Prosecco DOC Rosé Spumante Brut, Bottega would make an excellent choice.

Beyond the Plate:

• Spring Markets: Visit local markets to experience the vibrant colours and aromas of the season.
• Al Fresco Dining: Enjoy the warm spring weather by dining al fresco at a trattoria or enjoying a picnic in the park or your garden.

Spring in Italy is a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients - served with wonderful pastas, risottos and more. Embrace the flavours of the season and savour the simple joys of Italian spring cuisine.