A Moment in Time to Remember

Thanksgiving is an American holiday, but Italians across the country embrace the chance to express gratitude through their traditional foods. Incorporating American dishes alongside these cultural favorites highlights a shared appreciation for the new land.

 

Upon arrival to the home for the feast, especially if outdoors, guests are greeted with nostalgic Italian tunes, whether from Spotify or a vintage record player. Then guests gather inside or outside with lively chatter and laughter. Often the sound is like a friendly debate, characteristic of large Italian family gatherings. In reality, everyone is simply engaged in spirited conversation at a high volume.

 

In Italy, festive meals typically consist of nine distinct courses: antipasto, primi, secondi, contorni, insalata, formaggi fruit, dolce, cafe, and digestive . . . and again, all courses may vary by region.

First is the antipasto buffet or individual serving of a vegetable torte, tartar, or charcuterie dish. It’s not unusual for people to walk about the house or yard while they continuously pick and plate various foods from the antipasto offering.

 

When people gather at the table, the elders, such as grandparents are seated first, then mother and father, followed by the guests. (Children often are placed at their own table next to the adults) A moment of silence before the meal is reserved for blessing the food and sharing what each person is thankful for. (depending on the crowd size)

 

Followed by the primi or first course, pasta or risotto is usually served. The Secondi or main entrée, often a protein of choice. Thanksgiving is not an Italian holiday with a traditional turkey, but options among Italians in America often include goose, capon, turkey, or Cornish hens, allowing hosts to cater to their guests' preferences. Side dishes or contorni is where the American version of foods often appear such as garlic mashed potatoes, yams, green bean casserole, roasted Brussel sprouts or some type of squash.

 

In Tuscany, insalata or the salad is served after the main entrée as offered in Calizo’s posted menu. The salad will follow to cleanse the palate using bright leafy greens and a lite lemony dressing. What is a meal without cheese and fruit---formaggi fruitla.  Before this colorful platter is served, there is time to clear the table, sit back, talk more, sip more wine, and take a deep breathe.

 

Dessert or dolce, can be served as an individual portion of a light dessert because of the large meal, or as a buffet with multiple puddings, eclairs, cannoli, cream puffs, cookies or tarts as choices. Depending on the number of attendees, size options of the dessert is considered such as an individual tart vs a large group tiramisu.

 

No Italian meal is complete without a café usually an expresso or macchiato, an expresso with a small amount of foamed milk. (Italians drink cappuccino traditionally before 11 AM)

 

Finally, the last course called digestivo, (helps with digestion), includes slowly sipping grappa, lemoncello, or amaro.   At this point, I am ready to crash . . .  but

 

Now time for movement! Entertainment often unfolds spontaneously, with guests playing instruments like the accordion, guitar, or piano, or enjoying cappella singing. Before long, the room is filled with music, and guests find themselves singing and tapping their feet.

 

The essence of Thanksgiving for Italians in America is all about sharing time with family and friends, enjoying delicious food, and expressing gratitude. One thing is certain: the combination of eating, lively conversation, singing, and dancing creates unforgettable memories…is that so different from Americans or other cultures?

 

Happy Thanksgiving 

(Buon Ringraziamento)

 

 

Linda Scalzo Eads

Founder