De Laurentiis took to her Giadzy site to expand on four “lesser-known” Italian regions and cities for those looking for food, scenery, and culture outside of the more heavily trodden Rome or Florence. First off: Puglia, the coastal region in southern Italy famous for deliciously creamy burrata and caciocavallo cheeses, ear-shaped orecchiette pasta, ring-shaped crackers called taralli, and the crispy, stuffed pockets of fried dough known as panzerotti, explains La Cucina Italiana. Next up, Ravello, a city that calls itself “the hidden treasure of the Amalfi Coast.” Located high on a cliff overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, Ravello and surrounding cities are known for fresh seafood and dishes made with local produce, such as fragrant Amalfi Coast citrus (via Positano.com).
De Laurentiis’ other pick is Umbria, chock-full of forested areas, hidden lakes, and scenic villages. While in Umbria, make sure to taste hearty local delicacies, such truffles and sausage, which feature in a rich dish called pasta alla Norcina. Her final recommendation is Sicily, an island whose cuisine was influenced by Turkish, Arab, and Greek food, per Vancouver Sun. De Laurentiis is especially impressed by eggplant caponata, arancini, and cannoli, so if you’re ever in Italy, make sure to try these traditional, chef-approved classics that have been made and enjoyed for centuries.
