A Few Things To Try The Next Time You Are In An Authentic Italian Deli
If you go to an Italian deli to get your lunchmeats, or perhaps a sandwich for lunch, take a bit of time to really look around while you are waiting for your order. You may also want to take a good look at the menu as there is bound to be things you have never ordered before that could become a favorite. To give you some ideas, here are just a few of the things you should look for:
Pastas
If you have never eaten fresh pasta, you don't know what you are missing. Making it yourself at home is not too difficult, but can be time-consuming and unless you have the proper equipment, the process can be cumbersome. However, you can enjoy pasta at its best when you purchase it fresh from the deli. It should be noted that you may have to get there early in the morning or it will all be sold out. You may also be able to order it a few days in advance so you are sure to get what you need.
Soups and Salads
If you are tired of sandwiches, you can always order a soup or salad instead. If minestrone is not one of your favorites, try Italian wedding soup or perhaps a seafood stew. You can add a salad or antipasto to it if you are looking for a dinner instead of a lunch. Either of these can also be used as a side to the main entrée you have planned for the night or for any time you will be having a party or other event that requires more than chips and dips.
Custom Meats
The meat counter at the local grocery store may allow you to ask them to cut a large piece into smaller pieces, but generally not much more than that. At the Italian deli, you can ask for any cut, any size, of any of the meats they have or can order. Many of them purchase directly from local farmers and do all the butchering. If you are looking for a cut or type of meat that is not sold in the grocery stores, call and ask the deli if they can acquire it for you.
Fresh fruits, vegetables, and handmade sausage is also available at most authentic delis. Their products often come from area farms, helping the local economy. You not only get great foods but are also helping keep the small farms alive. Contact a company like Scittino's Italian Market Place for more information and assistance.