Mostly because of its exquisite and delicious cuisines, Italy is a very famous destination for many Americans. Italian staples like pizza, chicken parmesan, spaghetti and meatballs, and fettuccine alfredo have become all-time favorite Italian food in Colorado Springs and many other cities.

And while many people claim to have mastered the techniques and secrets behind such mouth-watering meals, very few have actually been able to do. According to the Italian restaurant that offers the best Italian food in Colorado Springs, the secret of making any quality Italian food is to always choose fresh ingredients.

In fact, picking fresh ingredients is the way to ensure that each recipe comes out with not only the smell that excites our taste buds, but also the taste that satisfies them. Ingredients that are locally produced, free of GMOs, and organic are always the best choice. They are full of all kinds of flavors and healthy nutrients. Fresh ingredients are truly a must in making authentic Italian Food in Colorado, and everywhere else.

Various ingredients are used in Italian cuisine, but some few ones often constitute the basis of many recipes. Here is a list of 7 of them:

1. Tomatoes

With over three hundred varieties of tomato to choose from, it is no wonder that they constitute one of the main ingredients of Italian cuisine. Each variety has its own use due in part to their physical difference.

For instance, plum tomatoes such as San Marzano and Roma VF are the preferred tomato variety for sauces. This is because they have thick meaty flesh, fewer seeds, and less juice, properties that make them easily peelable and allow for the making of rich and deep red sauces.

2. Garlic

While this plant is often praised for its medical and health benefits, garlic is also a common ingredient in Italian cuisine.

With its rich flavors, that can only be found in fresh and organic garlic, it naturally enhances the taste of every recipe in which it is used. Sauces, salads, vinaigrettes, and marinades are all preparations in which it is commonly used.

3. Mushrooms

Pizza, sauces, and pasta are all dishes in which mushrooms can be found.

They are a great source of protein to every dish and their hearty and meaty texture makes them an excellent meat substitute for vegetarian dishes. Additionally, mushrooms provide the body with all kinds of minerals and vitamins that are beneficial to the nervous and immune system. A mushroom variety known for its nutty flavor that is popular in Italian cuisine is Porcini.

4. Basil

Known as "The king of herbs", basil is a must in Italian cuisine. Depending on the variety that is chosen, it can add a sweet, minty, citrus or spicy flavor to the dish. Adding basil to your cooking will definitely enhance its flavor and add more personality to the food.

A particular recipe for which sweet basil is the basis is the famous pesto sauce; a favorite of many Italian food lovers.

5. Olive Oil

Olive oil, or the liquid gold, is what holds all Italian cuisines together. Both a cooking element and a condiment, it is used in a variety of dishes, from the simplest ones to the fanciest and most elaborate ones.

In fact, Italians often enjoy the taste of olive oil through the consumption of the bread dipping oil dish. Olive oil truly is the heart of most Italian preparations.

6. Cheese

With so many flavors, textures, and colors to choose from, cheese is a popular ingredient in many Italian dishes.

Mozzarella, Parmigiano Reggiano, Grana Padano, Parmesan, and Ricotta are some of the cheese varieties that are most common in Italian cuisine. Their unique taste is what makes them the best accompaniment to every Italian dish, whether it is an entree, a main dish, or even a dessert.

7. Pasta

With a shape and texture for all food desires, pasta is undoubtedly one of the most popular staples in Italian cuisine.

There are approximately 350 different pasta types with each one having a particular purpose and shape. Some of them include penne, spaghetti, farfalle, tagliatelle, ravioli, and fusilli. Pasta is a true delight in both Italian culture and cuisine and constitutes one of the country's most loved dishes.

Summary

Several other ingredients such as dried oregano, balsamic vinegar, and even wine are also commonly found in Italian dishes.

But what makes the particularity of the delicious meals served in Italian eateries is the freshness of every ingredient.