The food lover’s guide to Sicily – with its mix of Mediterranean influences, the island offers a wide variety of delicious dishes that are sure to excite any palate. From fresh seafood to hearty pasta, there’s something for everyone.
Although Italy is renowned as the land of culture, art, and romance, many visitors come to Italy to experience the food. Instead of simply referring to “Italian food,” it’s far more accurate to distinguish between the distinct regional dishes. For those eager to explore new flavours on one of our Italian cooking holidays, this is great news! You’ll have the opportunity to discover a whole new world of Italian cuisine, with authentic flavours you may not have experienced before.
1. Pasta alla Norma
A classic Sicilian dish, Pasta alla Norma is made with simple ingredients: pasta, aubergines, tomato sauce, ricotta salata (salted ricotta), and basil. It’s full of flavour and a must-try for anyone visiting the island.
2. Arancini
These golden, deep-fried rice balls are stuffed with everything from ragù to cheese and peas. They’re perfect for a quick snack while you’re on the go, and you’ll find them everywhere – from street vendors to restaurants. It will always find itself on any Food Lover’s Guide to Sicily!
3. Seafood
Being an island, it’s no surprise that seafood is a staple. Fresh fish, calamari, and shellfish are served in various dishes. One standout is spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) – light, simple, and full of flavour.
4. Caponata
This sweet and sour vegetable stew is a traditional Sicilian side dish. It’s made with aubergines, tomatoes, olives, capers, and a bit of vinegar and sugar, creating a balance of flavours that pairs perfectly with meat or fish.
5. Cannoli
No trip to Sicily would be complete without trying cannoli. These crispy tubes filled with sweet ricotta cheese, often flavoured with citrus zest or chocolate chips, are a beloved dessert across the island.
6. Granita
Sicilian granita is more than just a refreshing treat – it’s an experience. Made from crushed ice and natural fruit or coffee flavours, it’s a perfect way to cool off on a hot day. Try it with a brioche bun for the full experience.
7. Sicilian Wine
“Bonu vinu fa bonu sangu.” – “Good wine makes good blood.”
Legend has it that the Greek god Dionysus introduced madness to mankind – and wine to Sicily. Whilst occupying Sicily in the 8th century B.C., the Greeks brought wine (onios) with them. Sicilian now call it “vinu” – the nectar of the gods.
Sicily’s wine culture is growing fast, and the island produces some excellent wines. From reds like Nero d’Avola (which is made out of grapes that have remained unchanged for over 2,700 years.) to refreshing whites such as Grillo, you’ll find a wine to suit any meal. Be sure to sample local varieties that aren’t always available outside of Sicily.
8. Sicilian Street Food
If you love food that’s quick, tasty, and cheap, you’ll love Sicilian street food. From pane con la milza (a sandwich with spleen and herbs) to sfincione (Sicilian pizza), street food here is packed with local flavour. Perfect for an afternoon snack or casual dinner.
9. Couscous
A surprise entry in our food lover’s guide!
When you think of Italian food, pasta likely springs to mind. But couscous? You might find it a surprise to find Couscous in the food lover’s guide to Sicily but it’s a dish you’ll find on the table. The reason? The Arabs, who occupied the island between 827 and 1073 AD, brought their favourite recipes from Tunisia, Libya, and Morocco. In fact, Sicily even hosts a couscous festival each September in San Vito Lo Capo, where chefs from around the world compete.
Final Thoughts
Sicily’s food is all about fresh ingredients, bold flavours, and rich history. Whether you’re grabbing a bite from a street vendor or enjoying a leisurely meal at a restaurant, the island offers an authentic culinary experience that’s hard to beat. So, if you’re a food lover, Sicily should definitely be at the top of your travel list! Try our cooking, painting, photography, language and Pilates holidays – varied activities but great food is involved in them all!
The Flavours team are always trying out new cookbooks for our holiday destinations, our favourite for Sicily is:
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