The Small Town Italian Lifestyle Pt. 2

by Sebastian Falvo August 15, 2023

As we talked about last time, things are simpler in our small Italian town. Life really does seem to move in a slower and more fluid way. In most people’s lives here in this country, that being the United States of America, the day seems to be broken down into several small parts. That is never how it seems while in Italy. A day is a series of events that all seem to melt together like shallots and garlic in a pan. The things we know we have to do that day regardless of how much work they might take, seem easier to handle. I think it’s because of the fact that no one, and I mean no one, is in a rush to do anything. That may have consequences in America, certainly on the East Coast, but not in our small Italian town.

Now let’s get to the topic I know everyone loves, the food. Let's not beat around the bush, the food is divine. The freshness and quality of everything is unlike anywhere I’ve ever been. The fruits, the vegetables, the pasta, the meats, and cheeses are all perfect. Hell, even the potato chips are better. Good luck finding something that isn't in season because they won’t have it and good. No need to eat anything sub-par while you're there. A few dishes come to mind from all my trips. One of which is perhaps the simplest dish of all. Fresh homemade pasta made with butter that had Parmigiano Reggiano in it. Not parmesan added after but made IN the butter. You might be thinking to yourself, I’ve had buttered pasta before, but I promise you it’s so much more than it sounds. I thought the same until I had it. It's been at least 6 years since I've had it and I think about it weekly. Second dish would be Casarecce in spicy tomato sauce and sausage also known as Arrabiata w/ sausage. The sausage is so fresh you almost feel like you knew the pig personally and you wouldn't be far off. The pig was most likely raised by the chef or a friend of the chef. Lastly would just be pizza. Not a specific one because there are just too many to even mention. No matter what you hear anyone say, the pizza in Italy really is that good. It's as magical as anything you can consume in Italy.

Now what does all this have in common? The lifestyle, the people, the food. It's simple. Everything that should be considered has been considered and everything that doesn’t, isn’t because why worry. That ethos is something I’m still trying to work into my life personally. It’s one of my biggest flaws as a human but thankfully the lovely people of this small town in Italy have given me a blueprint.