4 Simple Rules for Eating like the Italians

Answer us this — honestly.  When was the last time you enjoyed dinner without a single distraction?  If you’re like most people, a million interruptions get in the way.  Texts. TV. Work calls. You’d hoped to enjoy a quiet dinner but — instead — you feel rushed or, worse, disconnected from those around you. It’s time to start living like an Italian, my friend! Follow these simple rules to conjure more meaningful mealtimes together:

4 SIMPLE RULES FOR EATING LIKE THE ITALIANS

1. FIND TIME TO SAVOR SUPPER TOGETHER

Really, eating dinner isn’t a sprint. No one wins the gold for getting heart-burn the fastest! Come on, are we really “too busy” to find one hour to share laughter and linguine? Do as the Italians do and treat your meals as a cherished ritual. No interruptions allowed. Phones are turned off. TVs are unplugged. And camaraderie is kindled.

2. RELISH THE PEOPLE IN YOUR LIFE

The reason people love Italian restaurants isn’t the food. ((Sure, handmade gnocchi make us weak in the knees just like anyone else!)). But, the real reason is FEELING like you’re family. In Italian culture, food is something to be shared. It’s communal bonding — coming together around a simple, satisfying pleasure. Translation: it’s as much about the people you share dinner with as the pasta on your plate.

3. PRACTICE THE ART OF GENEROSITY

Italian grandmas can’t cook for one. Why? Well, you make big portions to feed your big famiglia — the folks you love. So, instead of serving yourself first, why not pour a glass of wine for your sweetheart? Or, maybe, offer your best friend a second helping of lasagna. Remember, food tastes better when shared.

4. SLOW DOWN YOUR SIMMER

So, traditional Italian dinners are the opposite of fast food.  First you sip an apertivo. Then, you nibble an antipasto or two. And only then, after whetting your appetite and wetting your whistle, do you dig in to your first course or entree.  All right, we know that not every night can be a 4-hour meal.  But, try to dedicate one night a week to a slow supper — savored with the folks you love.  We know you’ll be happy you did.

Do you want to savor live life like the Italians do? Click here to join one of our authentic tours of Little Italy with someone you love!

We promise you won’t check your cell phone. At all.

DOWNLOAD OUR FREE, GRANDMA-APPROVED RECIPE BOOK HERE.