With its vibrant culture and rich culinary traditions, Italy is known for being a feast for the senses. Giovanni’s brings authentic Italian dishes to London and you can enjoy recipes that have been handed down through generations when you book a table.
Nothing symbolises Italian cuisine better than its vast assortment of pasta dishes, each with its own rich history and unique taste. Below we have explored the history of pasta in Italy, some of the popular pasta dishes we serve at Giovanni’s and the perfect wine pairings to try. We couldn’t talk about Italian cuisine without mentioning a few ‘contorni’ that complement pasta dishes too.
The History of Pasta in Italy
Pasta is at the heart of Italian cuisine and it holds a history as rich as its current variety. Its origins are often the subject of debates, with many believing that Marco Polo introduced pasta to Italy after he voyaged to the East. However, historical evidence suggests that pasta had already been enjoyed by Italians long before then.
The pasta that we know today; dried, wheat pasta, didn’t emerge until the Middle Ages. It was predominantly made in the South of Italy, thanks to the ideal wheat-growing conditions and the area’s proximity to the sea. Throughout the years, pasta’s popularity has grown, with each region in Italy creating its own unique dishes based on local ingredients and cultural influences. Today, there are hundreds of different types of pasta in Italy and an abundance of recipes, each carrying a piece of the country’s vibrant history within it.
Popular Pasta Dishes at Giovanni’s
Italian pasta dishes are as diverse as they are delicious. Giovanni’s serves some of the best Italian pasta dishes with a Sicilian flair, staying true to recipes that have been enjoyed for centuries. We have a simple philosophy; to deliver authentic Italian dishes, using only the finest of ingredients. Here are a few favourite pasta dishes that are not to be missed at Giovanni’s;
Although it may seem simple, the Vermicelli All’Aglio E Peperoncino has everything it needs to provide a delicious meal. Made with fine spaghetti and Sicilian garlic, olive oil and fresh chilli, it’s a classic dish.
When talking about Italian pasta dishes, it’s only right to mention Lasagne. Giovanni’s offers a take on this classic dish; Lasagne Della Zia Maria, made with slow oven-baked beef ragù in béchamel sauce.
For something more creamy, Spaghetti Casa Nostra is a great option. This spaghetti dish is made with slightly smoked guanciale, egg yolk, pecorino cheese and crushed peppercorns.
Another simple, yet delightful pasta dish is Pennette Con Pomodoro Fresco. Made with pennette pasta and a fresh tomato sauce, you can’t go wrong with this recipe.
If you want to try something a little bit different, ravioli is always a good choice. Ravioli Con Ricotta E Spinaci is freshly made ravioli filled with ricotta and young spinach leaves. Sautéed in butter and fresh sage, it’s memorable for all of the right reasons.
The Perfect Wine Pairings
No Italian meal is complete without the perfect wine to enhance the dishes. When it comes to pasta, the wine is typically chosen to balance the flavours of the sauce. Giovanni’s has an impressive collection of Italian wines with something to complement every dish on the menu.
For creamy sauces, crisp white wine is an excellent choice and will cut through the richness. Whereas, for tomato-based sauce, full-bodied red wine is a better option. The acidity and fruity flavours complement the sauces well.
Exploring Italian Side Dishes
While pasta is undoubtedly the star of the show, there are lots of side dishes that can add extra flavour and texture to your meal in Italian cuisine. Giovanni’s menu includes a selection of contorni, from grilled king prawns in a white wine and lemon sauce to seasonal salads and broccoli sauteed in garlic. We will happily recommend the perfect side dish to accompany your chosen pasta dish when you order.
Looking for an Authentic Italian Restaurant in London’s West End?
To experience authentic Italian cuisine and delicious pasta dishes in London’s West End, Giovanni’s is the only restaurant to visit. Although it’s in close proximity to London’s theatres, Giovanni’s is tucked away in a historic alleyway that dates back to 1690. So, you can escape the hustle and bustle of the West End and enjoy authentic Italian food.
You can reserve a table for any occasion via our website, whether you want a spot of lunch or a cosy dinner. You can also call us on 020 7240 2877 or email us at info@giovannislondon.co.uk and our knowledgeable team will answer any questions you may have about our menu.