Did you know that Alfredo sauce is an Italian-American dish and doesn't actually exist in Italy? And spaghetti and meatballs are never served together at an Italian restaurant? In the United States, we have adapted a lot of Italian dishes to fit with how our society eats food. Typically, in the US, we have starch, meat and vegetables all on the same plate. In Italy, this idea is absurd! On Italian menus, there are different categories of food antipasti (starters), primo (first dish), secondo (second dish) and contorni (sides). A primo is typically a pasta, and a secondo is typically a meat, but these two are never served at the same time! Italian food is well-known around the world, but the rules of eating in Italy might not be as obvious. My roommates and friends have introduced me to the typical foods of Siena, while making sure I don't break any important food rules!
Given Siena's rich history and long heritage, this hilltop city became famous for many ancient dishes. I have had the pleasure of trying foods that taste so complex and difficult to make, but only require about three or four ingredients! That is the beauty of Italian food – it is simple, natural and delicious!
