Italian Traditions to Maximize Family Time

The Italian lifestyle is one of passion and flair for life. For this reason, people around the world have taken cues from Italian culture for centuries. Here are seven Italian traditions and how to bring a bit of Italy into everyday American life.

1. Enjoy the Italian tradition of ‘passeggiata’
Take part in your own “passeggiata” (evening stroll) with family and friends and use it as an opportunity to unwind from your day, engage in lively conversation and discover things you never knew about your area.

2. Cooking is an art – learn simple cooking techniques
Italian recipes feature poultry, meats and seafood prepared in a wide range of techniques from simply grilled, roasted or poached with extra virgin olive oil and garlic to more complicated sautéing, filleting and creation of elaborate sauces including tomatoes, cream and a variety of herbs and spices. It’s no wonder that more Americans (58%) would rather have a family member who makes great Italian meals rather than a family member who makes amazing desserts.

3. Enjoy a special meal with the family – and don’t rush
In Italy, dinner is a big event that is more about being with loved ones uniting in rich conversation than it is about eating.

4. Italian culture is steeped in tradition – embrace old traditions and start new ones with your family
Everyone has a history and traditions—88% of Americans have family recipes that have been handed down from one generation to the next and nearly half (45%) of families celebrate traditions that began three or more generations ago.

5. Italians culture is supported by “ars vivendi,” the art of living and enjoying life – live your life with passion
Italians are known for being passionate people who embrace the joys of life and aim to live it to the fullest. This passion is just what Americans are missing out on–3 in 10 are not living life to the fullest (29%). You can find passion and happiness all around you. Happiness can be as simple as an evening spent with family, adventures with friends, a beautiful day outside, or finding the perfect glass of wine or bowl of pasta.

6. Beauty is everywhere – show an appreciation for the arts and music
An appreciation for the world and all its wonders is an inherently Italian way of thinking. They notice the beauty that exists in people, places and things, in both manmade and natural occurrences and have their own style when embracing life. Take a look around your world; look at the people around you, the places you go and look for the beauty in them. Spice up your style by putting your own finesse on a new dish by adding fresh herbs or creating a memorable tablescape for a dinner party.

7. Simple is delicious – fresh ingredients prepared simply make the biggest impact
In Italy, most fish and meat are purchased the same day they will be cooked to ensure they are as fresh as possible. This is based upon the Italian belief that using the freshest ingredients can elevate any meal. Use the ingredients of the season and prepare them simply to let their true flavors shine. To be Italian is to take fresh, flavorsome food, prepare it with love and enjoy it with family and friends. No matter what, the basis for any great Italian meal is top quality, fresh ingredients.

Why not observe or partake in these wonderful traditions in Italy? If you’d like to book a trip, or discuss your travel options, please contact Caldwell Travel, your Indianapolis Travel Agency, today!