Italian immigration to America has created some amazing advances in culture, particularly with regard to cuisine. Using ingredients endemic to America and shared with their native Italy, Italian-Americans have created some truly fantastic dishes. Here is some information about some of the dishes that Italian-Americans have created that you must absolutely try.
Pasta Fazool
Although this was originally an Italian dish known as "pasta e fagioli," pasta fazool has taken on a life of its own in America. Originally a delight among peasants, pasta fazool is now enjoyed by not only the Italian-American community, but Americans from coast to coast. Pasta fazool is a dish that contains beans and pasta. The beans that are used vary from region to region. In many areas, the use of cannellini beans is prevalent. The base sauce used in pasta fazool is primarily olive oil, minced garlic, carrots, and celery. This inexpensive and hearty dish is sure to keep you full for hours on end.
American Chop Suey
Prevalent in New England and other parts of the Northeast, American chop suey is another hearty dish that is inexpensive to make. It primarily consists of elbow macaroni and ground beef, along with sauteed onions and green peppers mixed in with a hearty tomato-based sauce. Although not necessary for the meal itself, Parmesan cheese is often grated atop of it and allowed to melt. It is occasionally served with sliced bread and Worcester sauce as an optional condiment.
Wedding Soup
This dish is not traditionally served at weddings, contrary to popular belief. Rather, the name comes from a mistranslation of the Italian phrase "minestra maritata," which literally means "married soup." The original name is derived from the fact that this soup contains meatballs and green vegetables that taste so good together that they should be married. The greens involved in the soup usually include lettuce, endive, cabbage, escarole, spinach, and, as of late, kale has become a popular ingredient. The meatballs used in wedding soup are occasionally replaced by chicken or other white meat.
Baked Ziti
Baked ziti is a casserole dish that utilizes ziti pasta and is usually served with a heavy tomato sauce and plenty of Parmesan cheese caked on top. This savory dish is often served with green peppers and onions.
It is highly recommended that you make your way to the nearest Italian restaurant and try out one (or more) of these dishes for yourself.
Share28 April 2016
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