Ciao! It’s not too soon to think of Christmas giving, and there are always occasions to give someone a very special Italian themed gift. Such as birthdays, anniversaries or any other special reason. Everyone loves food, especially Italians. There are many food items and food accessories that make great gifts. Here are a few ideas and resources to get your creative juices flowing:
Food
- Italian cheeses
- Antipasto
- Olive oils
- Balsamic vinegars
- Different types of pasta
Kitchen Accessories
- Pasta Bowls
- Stovetop espresso makers
- Griddle Stone
- Roasted Garlic Cooker
- Gelato Maker
- Pasta Machine
Italian cheeses
An assortment of different Italian cheeses makes a great gift. Your gift basket might include the following cheeses: mozzarella, gorgonzola, mascarpone, parmesan, pecorino, provolone.
Antipasto
A gift basket could also contain, cold cuts, roasted red peppers, Italian olives and marinated mushrooms.
Olive Oils and Balsamic Vinegars
Extra virgin olive oil has the most intense flavor. Extra virgin means that it was produced with the first pressing or by cold pressing the olives. Olive oil can also be seasoned with different herbs and also garlic. Traditional balsamic vinegar is produced in Modena or Reggio Emilia. There are many cheaper varieties that are produced, but the real deal is called “Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale” and is aged at least three years.
Pasta
There are many types of speciality pastas available in different flavors and colors, such as spinach pasta or roasted red pepper pasta.
Pasta Bowls
Beautiful hand painted pasta bowls are an essential for the Italian kitchen. They can be displayed as a decoration, but more practically, they can be used to present that wonderful Italian dish that you just prepared.
Stovetop Espresso Makers
A stovetop espresso maker makes a wonderful gift for your Italian friends. Italians love their coffee and an espresso maker lets them make authentic espresso right in their own kitchen.
Griddle Stone
This is a great gift for those who like to make their own pizza. It can also be used for cooking flatbreads and seafood over a hot fire.
Roasted Garlic Cooker
This is a great idea. Simply put your garlic in this little ceramic jar, add a little olive oil and salt and in 30 minutes you have your roasted garlic. This is much better than using your whole oven to roast a little package of garlic.
Gelato Maker
What could be better than homemade gelato? This is a great family gift. With your own gelato maker, you can experiment with all kinds of flavors and ingredients.
Pasta Machine
A food processor and pasta machine is a terrific combination. Think of that homemade bread or pizza for dinner. This is another great family gift.
Whatever the occasion, there are many great Italian gifts to choose from. Enjoy shopping!
Stephanie
Italian Nonna