Italy is known for its fantastic cuisine. Between authentic pasta, breads, pizzas, and meats, the country's cuisine doesn't leave much to be desired. But while we are quick to imitate our own interpretations of their delicious meals, we often don't truly digest the cultural values that accompany food in Italy.

Tradition- Many restaurants, farms, and factories are family owned and operated and provide a source of tradition.

Passion- From the farmer's who grow it to the restaurant owners and chefs who prepare and serve it, people are passionate about the food that they create. Listening to farmer's talk about their fields, winery owner's about their house wines, and restaurant chefs about their authentic dishes, this is very easy to see.

Quality- The passion and tradition that accompany food growth and production ensure that quality is never jeopardized for convenience. Ingredients are fresh and often locally produced and do not include preservatives or artificial additives. Meal preparation maybe long, but quality in every dish is ensured.

Simplicity- Though they are decadent, dishes are simple with quality ingredients. Foods are wholesome, fresh, and appear in forms close to the way nature created them.

Togetherness- Meal times are very important within the Italian Culture. Many shops and businesses often close for the lunch hour so that their employees and owners can enjoy the meal with their families. Meals are an experience to share together, not something to get through with haste.

There are many more values that orient around food in Italy. My weeks traveling the country merely scratched the surface of their rich and beautiful culture.I learned, experienced, saw, and tasted amazing things. Here's a taste of what I ate while traveling throughout Italy.