My amazing husband and I have been married for 10 years. Each year on Valentine’s Day, my spouse treats me to dinner at a wonderful restaurant. The only problem with this annual plan is crowd control. Many other local couples always have the same idea on this most romantic day of the year that we have. If you can relate to this scenario, why not reserve your Valentine’s Day restaurant now? Many eateries take reservations for this special occasion early. Therefore, when you arrive at your destination, you can be seated and served your delicious food quickly. On this blog, you will learn the many benefits of making reservations at your favorite restaurant for Valentine’s Day.
Reserve Your Valentine’s Day Restaurant Today
Meatless Authentic Italian Dishes
Nora Harper
When you think of Italian cuisine, you might first think of dishes that contain plenty of meat: Chicken Parmesan, Osso Bucco, and Bolognese are classics. But while these dishes are popular and certainly delicious, they are not the only dishes in Italian cuisine. Here are some authentic Italian dishes that don't typically contain meat.
Risotto
Risotto is a dish made from rice, broth, and various seasonings. While it is often made with broth from meat, it is not made with meat itself. Some versions are instead made with mushroom or vegetable stock. Risotto is made with a type of rice that releases a lot of starch as it cooks, resulting in a smooth, creamy consistency. Its velvety mouthfeel is uniquely satisfying. Many versions are flavored and topped with Parmesan cheese. In Italy, risotto is typically served as a first course before a larger entree. However, if you're looking for a meatless dish to enjoy as a satisfying meal, you can absolutely make a whole meal from risotto.
Margherita Pizza
Some versions of pizza are more American than Italian. However, the Margherita pizza is an authentic Italian dish, and a meatless one at that. Traditionally, this pizza is made with a flat crust that has a crispy outside and a chewy inside. It's topped with simple tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves. One Margherita pizza is a very filling meal for one person, or a smaller meal for two. Most authentic Italian restaurants, even if they don't serve a lot of pizzas, do serve Margherita pizza.
Bruschetta
If you browse the appetizer or starter menu at an authentic Italian restaurant, you're almost certain to see bruschetta. This is a dish made from crusty baguettes, sliced and topped with a tomato salad. The tomato salad is usually seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and fresh basil. Some versions have a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top. This dish could easily make a small lunch or light dinner.
Polenta
Polenta is a creamy, cornmeal-based dish. It's made with stock and some Parmesan cheese as a seasoning. Polenta is often served alongside meat-based dishes, like short ribs, but it can certainly be enjoyed on its own. It makes for a nice lunch, especially with a side of bread.
If you want some authentic Italian food but would rather not eat meat, you have options. The Italian dishes above are satisfying, balanced, and all free from meat. For more information, contact a restaurant like Villa Romana Italian Restaurant.
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