Every region in Italy boasts its own unique cuisine that is distinctive from other areas, and Sicily is no exception. While there, you might be surprised with some of the food that is popular in the Mediterranean island. It’s not uncommon to find gelato in a brioche bun served for breakfast, raisins mixed into spaghetti, and couscous on the menu. You’ll find plenty of healthy, veggie-filled savory dishes, and you can’t come here without sampling the most famous Sicilian dessert: cannoli. Here are some of the must-try dishes when you’re visiting the island.
Caponata
Caponata is a classic Sicilian antipasto dish that can be found nearly everywhere. The sweet, sour, and tangy mixture of fried eggplants, tomatoes, capers, and vinegar is usually served at room temperature. This is an especially great option if you’re vegan or vegetarian, or even if you’re just health conscious.
Caponata
Arancini
You might already know about these, but there’s no way you can visit Sicily without having some authentic arancini. The deep fried rice balls are stuffed with either meat or vegetarian fillings. They can also be filled with cheese, caper pesto, or Alla Norma – meaning with eggplant, tomato, and ricotta.
Arancini
Pasta alla Norma
Pasta alla Norma is a delicious pasta dish made with eggplants, tomatoes, and topped with ricotta insalata. As you can see, tomato and eggplant are a common feature in Sicilian food, and we’re certainly not mad about that.
Pasta Alla Norma
Gelato In Brioche
Who can say no to ice cream for breakfast? This deliciously decadent dessert is traditional Sicilian fare. A large brioche bun is stuffed with gelato and enjoyed for breakfast during summer months. You can try some delicious ones at Cafe Spinnato in Palermo.
Gelato In Brioche
Granita
Granita is a popular dessert found in Italy, but its Sicilian counterpart is a bit thicker, so it is usually eaten with a spoon instead of a straw. There are plenty of delicious flavors to try.
Granita
Cannoli
There’s no way you can be in Sicily and not have at least one of these classic pastries. Cannoli are the best known Sicilian desserts for a reason. The delicious pastry shells are filled with delicious, sweet, and creamy ricotta and will sometimes include chocolate chips, pistachios, dried fruit, or other yummy add ins.
Cannoli
