In Australia, Italian food is more than just a meal, it’s a love affair. From bustling city streets to quiet coastal towns, Australians can’t get enough of those iconic flavours that have travelled across the globe from Italy. Whether you’re a pizza purist, a pasta lover, or someone with a sweet tooth for tiramisu, Italian food has something for everyone.
Ready to explore the best of Italy, right here in Australia? Let’s dive into the 10 Italian dishes you absolutely need to try, and discover how you can enjoy these authentic flavours in the most memorable way.
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10 signature Italian dishes you must try
Italy’s culinary diversity is staggering, and its food scene varies significantly by region. But no matter where you are in Italy (or Australia), certain dishes reign supreme.
Whether you’re in search of a quick bite or a more elaborate dining experience, here are the 10 must-try Italian dishes that have become staples in Australian cuisine.
Pizza Napoletana
No list of Italian food is complete without mentioning pizza. The Neapolitan pizza is a classic that has travelled far from its birthplace in Naples to become an international sensation. Made with a thin, soft crust topped with San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella di bufala, fresh basil, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, this pizza is the epitome of simplicity and flavour.
In Australia, you’ll find some excellent pizzerias serving this delicious dish, especially in Melbourne, where the Italian food culture thrives. Try it at an authentic pizzeria or even better, hire a private chef to cook it for you at home with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Pasta alla Carbonara
A creamy, savoury dish beloved by all, pasta alla carbonara is a true Roman classic. This comforting dish is made with spaghetti (or another pasta shape) tossed in a sauce of eggs, Pecorino Romano, guanciale (Italian cured pork cheek), and black pepper. The silky sauce coats the pasta beautifully, creating a perfect balance of richness and flavour.
In Australia, carbonara is frequently served in Italian restaurants and family kitchens, with some variations, such as substituting pancetta for guanciale. To experience the best of it, try a local Italian restaurant or have an Italian private chef prepare it with traditional Italian ingredients for an authentic experience.
Lasagna
When it comes to Italian comfort food, few dishes can rival lasagna. This layered pasta dish, filled with a rich meat sauce (or a vegetarian filling), béchamel, and melted cheese, is the ultimate indulgence. Though it originated in Emilia-Romagna, lasagna has become a beloved dish in Italian restaurants across Australia.
Risotto alla Milanese
Risotto is a dish that showcases the beauty of Italian cuisine, simple, hearty, and full of flavour. The version from Milan, Risotto alla Milanese, is made with Arborio rice cooked in a rich broth, butter, and a generous pinch of saffron, which gives it a distinctive golden colour and fragrant aroma. It’s the perfect balance of creamy texture and delicate flavour.
In Australia, you can find this dish in upscale Italian restaurants, particularly in cities like Sydney and Melbourne, where chefs offer elevated versions of traditional Italian recipes. For a more personalised touch, hire a private chef to prepare it in your own home for a special event or family gathering.
Osso Buco
Osso Buco, or braised veal shanks, is a speciality from the Lombardy region of northern Italy. The veal is slow-cooked in white wine, broth, and tomatoes, creating a rich, flavourful sauce. The dish is typically served with gremolata, a fresh herb mixture of lemon zest, garlic, and parsley, adding a fresh contrast to the deep, savoury flavours. In Australia, you’ll find this dish on the menu at many Italian trattorias.
Frittata
A frittata is an Italian-style omelette that’s versatile enough to include almost any ingredients you desire, vegetables, meats, and cheeses. Unlike the fluffy omelettes you might be familiar with, frittata is cooked slowly and finished in the oven, resulting in a dense, satisfying dish.
This dish is often served as a light meal or appetiser in Italy, and it’s easy to replicate at home.
Tiramisu
No Italian meal is complete without dessert, and tiramisu is perhaps the most iconic of them all. This indulgent dessert is made with layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and a dusting of cocoa powder. It’s a rich, yet light treat that perfectly balances sweetness and bitterness.
In Australia, tiramisu is a popular option at Italian restaurants, and it’s typically made with a touch of creativity.
Gnocchi
Gnocchi, those delicate little potato dumplings, are a classic comfort food in Italy. Made with mashed potatoes, flour, and egg, these soft, pillowy dumplings are usually served with a rich sauce, like a sage-butter sauce or a creamy pesto.
In Australia, gnocchi is served in many Italian eateries, and it’s often accompanied by seasonal Australian vegetables, making it a perfect dish for a fresh, homemade dinner.
Prosciutto e Melone
One of the simplest and most delicious dishes you can find in Italy is prosciutto e melone, cured ham served with fresh, juicy melon. The saltiness of the prosciutto complements the sweetness of the melon, making for a perfectly balanced dish. It’s a refreshing and light appetiser, ideal for summer dining.
In Australia, this dish can be found in many Italian restaurants, especially during the warmer months.
Focaccia
Focaccia is a soft, flat Italian bread, often seasoned with olive oil, rosemary, and salt. It’s perfect for dipping in balsamic vinegar or using as a side to a hearty Italian meal. In Australia, focaccia is widely available at Italian bakeries and restaurants.
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Why Italian cuisine has captured the Australian food scene?
The reason Italian food is so popular in Australia is simple: it’s the perfect combination of fresh ingredients, bold flavours, and comforting dishes. Australian cuisine, like Italian, values high-quality produce, making it a natural fit. Plus, the Australian love for food that brings people together mirrors the Italian dining tradition, where sharing a meal is an expression of love and family.
From the best Italian places to eat in Melbourne to the more laid-back coastal flavours of Sydney, Italian food is woven into the fabric of Australian dining. Whether it’s a casual meal or a fine dining experience, Italian cuisine continues to shine as one of the most beloved choices for Australians.
What if you could enjoy the best of Italian food at your own home?
While Italian restaurants in Australia offer a fantastic way to experience authentic cuisine, nothing compares to having a private chef come to your home and cook a bespoke meal just for you.
With the help of a private chef, you can indulge in these iconic Italian dishes, tailored to your preferences and made with the freshest ingredients.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or just craving a homemade Italian feast, a private chef can create an unforgettable dining experience.
From handmade pasta to the most decadent tiramisu, with Take a Chef you can enjoy the best of Italy from the comfort of your own home!
