Spaghetti and pasta often come to mind when someone thinks of food with a taste of Italy. In reality, there is much more to discover in the gastronomic experience. Yes, the amazing pasta dishes are an important part, but it is far from everything that an authentic Italian-based restaurant has to offer its customers.

Pasta dishes seem to bring out Italy in any establishment that has it on the menu. Italians are known for making the best marinara and cheese sauces. What better to smother with those sauces than a large plate of perfectly cooked pasta? Don’t forget the Parmesan cheese and garlic bread to enhance the flavors. Breadsticks are a popular choice with all kinds of pasta and salads.

When tasting foods of all kinds, try pairing them with a wine or other beverage to bring out the flavors not only at dinner, but in drinks as well. Many servers and bartenders can help you with wine selections that will pair perfectly with your chosen dish. For example, white wine can pair well with a marinara, while a dark wine enhances the flavor of a cheesy pasta.

Restaurants not only offer pasta dishes with an Italian touch, some will continue the festival of flavors with desserts that are commonly eaten in the country. Puff pastries and delicate chocolates are favorites among those who enjoy indulging their palates. Ice cream and cannoli are also a very popular option with many patrons who enjoy dessert.

There is another way to get the dose of spicy food that so many need. With the reach of the Internet, online stores now specialize in bringing what you crave straight to your home. Authentic products that help prepare meals can be ordered and delivered to your door. Chances are these sites have cookbooks to help explain how to get the best flavor from each product.

Some of these online stores ship everything from olive oils and other cooking oils, pastas and breads, as well as any side dishes and drinks that you might find interesting and delicious. There are some that also offer gluten-free and vegetarian versions of their products. Giving a little flavor to anyone who has a craving for pasta.

Having a cookbook that covers Italian cooking and procedures will help you decide what to order from an online store. There are certain techniques and products that may need special attention as to when and how to add them to the recipe. Some pastries and cakes have to be prepared in a certain way to make them look good.

These Italian food stores aren’t too hard to find, just do an online search. Some are even based in Italy, which will ensure that you are receiving authentic products. It can be a bit intimidating trying to choose the right product for you, but most online stores will be happy to answer any questions you have about a certain product or procedure.