Italian
Italian cuisine falls under the category of Mediterranean cuisine. Mediterranean cuisine encompasses the culinary traditions of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, including Italy, Greece, Spain, and parts of North Africa. Characterized by an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients such as olive oil, vegetables, grains, and seafood, Mediterranean cuisine is renowned for its healthful qualities and vibrant flavors. Italian cuisine, as a subset of this broader category, is celebrated for its distinctive pasta dishes, flavorful sauces, cheeses, and diverse regional specialties that have become beloved worldwide.