Buon appetito! 

What comes to mind when you think of Italian food? Cheesy, irresistible Pizza? Rich pasta dishes? 

There are more than 600 varieties of pasta, from different lengths and different shapes and sizes, there's something for every dish. 

Italian food is a lot more than just pizza and pasta, especially if you consider the number of regions in Italy with variations on Italian dishes. 

Italian cuisine is incredibly flavorful, delicious, and popular, but it isn't often thought about as healthy. Keep reading as we explain 5 reasons why Italian cuisine is healthy. 

What is Italian Cuisine?  

Italian cuisine basics include tomatoes, olive oil, seafood like sardines, anchovies, prawns, and fish, garlic, balsamic vinegar, and olives. These items are part of Mediterranean dishes that health experts tout as being very beneficial to your health. 

Italians use fresh, seasonal produce and minimally-processed foods. They use what's in season to create their beautiful dishes. 

What Makes it Healthy? 

What is in Italian Food that makes it healthy? You can also ask, what isn't in it? Let's take a look at what makes it a good choice for a healthy diet. 

1. Heart Healthy 

Olive oil is associated with just about every Italian dish. When you consume olive oil, the saturated fats help to lower your LDL or "bad" cholesterol while boosting your HDL or "good" cholesterol. 

Put it on your salad, start your pasta sauces with it, and use it when you make meat and fish. 

2. Antioxidants 

From red wine to vegetables, fruits, grains, and nuts, Italian food contains ingredients with the antioxidants you need to stay healthy. Vitamins A, C, and E, lycopene, selenium, beta-carotene, and lutein help to protect your body from free radicals linked to cancer and other cell damage. 

3. Power of Garlic 

If you're a garlic lover, you probably have noticed that you rarely get sick. Garlic has antibiotic and antifungal properties. Research also suggests that it's good for your heart and prevents blood clots. Garlic is a staple in most Italian dishes. 

4. Rich in Fiber 

We all know that bread and pasta offer us the fiber we need for healthy digestion, stable blood sugar levels, and lower cholesterol levels. The vegetables, legumes, nuts, and fruit found in Italian cuisine also boost your intake of fiber. 

5. Healthy Fats 

Healthy fats found in the fresh, natural ingredients used in Italian cooking lessen your risk of heart disease, inflammatory disease, and cancer. A Mediterranean diet that includes Italian cuisine will add years to your life. 

Best Italian Cuisine 

Now that you know you can enjoy Italian cuisine without the guilt, what will you indulge in? Sicilian arancini? Caprese salad? 

Do you know who can supply you with all the delicious ingredients you need to make a healthy, great-tasting Italian meal? We at NOI Italian Market carry authentic Italian goods to bring Italy right to your table. Contact us today if you have any questions about our products.