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One of the great benefits of travelling the world is being afforded the pleasure of sampling wonderful and varied ethnic cuisines. This often makes it difficult to choose a favorite, but there are certain countries which seem to operate on a higher culinary plane. These are the places which we remember specifically for their food. Countries which, when mentioned, conjure up memories of delightful international fare of the highest order. Therefore, when asked to name a favorite, there is one in particular which, for me, stands well-above the rest.

I had the good fortune of living in the remarkably beautiful country of Italy for many years. The people, places, and culture left an undeniable and lifelong impression on me. The cuisine of Italy, however, remains first and foremost in my mind. From the simplest pasta pomodoro to the most exquisite meals, Italian dishes provide a combination of taste and comfort that makes them unique and quintessentially Italian. Primarily due to the importance and use of fresh, local ingredients, one taste of true Italian food causes a visitor to Italy to realize that the "Italian" food they have been eating in America is something altogether different. There is virtually no comparison to the taste and experience of food freshly prepared and cooked within the country. Dishes vary by region and time of the year in Italy, which contributes to the wide and varied amount of classic Italian dishes. The preparation, style, and cooking methods of the cuisine tends to differ between the northern and southern regions of the country in particular. Northern Italian cooking involves the heavy use of butter and cream, while the southern Italians use a great deal of tomato products.

Italians view mealtimes as events to be savored, rather than something to be rushed through. They take their food very seriously, and the act of gathering around the table with family and friends is an integral part of the culture of Italy. The food is presented in abundance, time slows down, and the experience is never taken for granted. The cultural climate of Italy revolves around an appreciation of the food and the people with whom you are sharing it. Food and life are celebrated to the full. Perhaps this is what makes the cuisine of Italy so appealing to so many people. Delicious, comforting food combined with the company of those we love. Surely, this is what the Italians refer to as "La Dolce Vita".

Learn more about this author, Mary Ann Rudy.
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