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Italian cuisine
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Margherita pizza Plate of spaghetti carbonara topped with pancetta and herbs, surrounded by raw pasta, diced pancetta, a wedge of hard Italian cheese, a whole egg, and grated cheese. Illustration of various Italian pasta shapes including linguine, spaghetti, vermicelli, lasagna, elbow macaroni, ziti, rigatoni, manicotti, farfalle, ruote, rotini, and conchiglie, each labeled by name. Plate of creamy Italian risotto garnished with asparagus tips, grated parmesan cheese, and parsley, served on a white dish.
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Margherita pizza
Margherita pizza Traditionally topped with tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, basil, and olive oil, the margherita is one of Italy's best known and most iconic pizzas.

Italian cuisine

Also known as: Italian cooking
Written by
Laura Payne
Laura Payne is a freelance writer whose work covers many topics. She is a former Wayne State University linguistics instructor.
Laura PayneAll
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Britannica Editors
Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree....
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•History

Italian cuisine, traditional meals and cooking techniques developed over centuries in Italy. Although ingredients, recipes, and techniques vary by region and season, several core elements are shared across the country. These include the use of fresh, seasonal ingredients such as tomatoes and onions, soft cheeses, extra virgin olive oil, basil, garlic, and oregano. Meals are frequently centered on a starch, such as pasta, risotto, or polenta, and are often paired with red or white wine. Dishes...

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