“Show and Tell”: Italian Christmas Dinner

Eat, drink and be merry! We’ve gotten a glimpse of how Florence, Rome and Milan light up during the holiday season and this week we are beyond excited to have Elena Ciprietti, a New Yorker who has been living and working in Milan for over two years, share some pictures from Christmas Eve and Christmas dinner in Italy. This is one delicious post!

6 Photos from an Italian Christmas Dinner

1. Italians believe in eating a light meal on Christmas Eve to purify the body and prepare for Christmas Day – one of the holiest days of the year. Almost every table is filled with dishes that contain many different varieties fish, like this pasta dish with frutti di mare (shellfish) and tomato sauce.

2. Because no good meal is complete without some delicious cheese! A popular favorite is the creamy mix of gorgonzola and mascarpone cheeses, topped with crunchy walnuts.

3. Panettone vs. Pandoro: everyone has their favorite sweetbread during the holiday season! For those who have been really good all year, try a chocolate covered panettone made with fluffily dough and chocolate chunks.

4. After a “light” Christmas Eve meal, it’s time to indulge in a delicious Christmas lunch. Traditional milanese appetizers include insalata russa (mayonnaise and vegetable salad), smoked salmon, paté and salumi.

5. Tortellini served in a homemade broth – traditional Italian comfort food! This Christmas dish is considered a break between the many different courses.

6. A savory roast is the main dish served at Christmas dinner, usually served with vegetables and potatoes. Italians believe in truly celebrating the occasion and usually save up for higher quality food and more prestigious wines for the holiday.

Thank you Elena for giving us a glimpse of your mouthwatering Christmas celebrations! For more on living la dolce vita in Milan, follow her on Twitter @elenaciprietti.