Most people think of pasta and pizza as soon as they hear the word Italy! Definitely, those are the Italian most staples dishes (which you can’t find better anywhere else)! However, Italian food goes beyond these cheesy and carb loaded acclaimed popular foods. There are a lot of seafood, vegetables, nuts on the daily Italian table, pastries and much more.

Below are 25 photos of Italians traditional dishes that I indulged while in Italy for the first time, besides the pasta and pizza (off course). I have some new favorites dishes now with I would like to start with below.

P.S: As a curious fact, the beloved hazelnut spread (Nutella) is from Italy. Although the Frenchs have mastered the baking, the Italians have mastered the filling in the baked goods! For your disappointment, I have no pictures on this article of pastries filled with Nutella.

Sfogliatella

This is a traditional Neapolitan pastry and my favorite ever! It’s finely made with crunchy layers and a dense filling. Imagine a filled cronut 10 times better and crunchier. Usually it has the shape of a triangle but can also be a cone shape (which represents the Mont Vesusvio volcano due to its shape). The traditional sfogliattella is filled with a sweet cream however you can find them savory as well. Although its is a chain, one of the best stores that are specialized on these treats is Cuori de Sfogliattella! A must try!!!