When it comes to Italian cuisine, Sicily is often overlooked despite its rich culinary heritage. The island’s unique blend of Mediterranean and Arab influences has created a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart from other Italian regions. From savory pasta dishes to sweet treats, Sicily offers a wealth of authentic recipes that showcase the island’s creativity and passion for food.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 traditional Sicilian recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds. From classic arancini to decadent cassata cakes, these dishes represent the best of Sicily’s gastronomic tradition.
Classic Sicilian Arancini
These crispy, cheesy rice balls are a staple of Sicilian cuisine, filled with the savory flavors of meat ragù and melted mozzarella. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, arancini are sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 cup meat ragù (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Combine cooked rice, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley in a bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg.
3. Add the meat ragù and mix until well combined.
4. Mix the egg into the rice mixture.
5. Shape into small balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
6. Heat about 1-2 inches of olive oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
7. Fry arancini in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
8. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes to fry all the arancini.
Sicilian Caponata
A classic Sicilian eggplant relish, Caponata is a sweet and sour condiment that pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or as a topping for grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of celery stalks, chopped
– 1 cup of capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the eggplant slices and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Remove the eggplant from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Stir in the chopped celery and capers, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
7. Add the cooked eggplant back into the skillet, along with the red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
8. Simmer the Caponata for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta alla Norma
This iconic pasta recipe hails from the beautiful island of Sicily, where rich flavors and bold ingredients come together to create a truly unforgettable dish. Pasta alla Norma is a staple of Sicilian cuisine, and its simplicity belies its depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rigatoni or other tubular pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup ricotta salata cheese, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss eggplant slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook pasta al dente according to package instructions.
4. Combine roasted eggplant, garlic, and tomato sauce in a large skillet. Simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes.
5. Toss cooked pasta with the eggplant-tomato mixture, then top with ricotta salata cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Sicilian Cassata
The Sicilian Cassata is a traditional Italian dessert that consists of layers of sponge cake, ricotta cheese, and candied fruit. This recipe is a simplified version of the classic dish, perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup candied fruit (orange and citron)
– 1 tablespoon rum or orange extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and eggs. Add milk and salt; whisk until smooth.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
4. Allow the cake to cool completely. Cut it into thin slices.
5. In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese with confectioners’ sugar. Spread a layer of ricotta mixture on top of each cake slice.
6. Arrange candied fruit on top of the ricotta layer. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used up, ending with a layer of cake.
7. If using rum or orange extract, drizzle it over the final layer of cake.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (cake) + assembly time
Sfincione Sicilian Pizza
This classic Sicilian pizza recipe hails from the southern Italian region of Sicily, where it’s a beloved staple. Sfincione is a thick-crusted, rectangular-cut pizza topped with anchovies, tomatoes, and onions.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 12 anchovy fillets, rinsed and drained
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, and warm water. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
4. Roll out the dough into a rectangular shape, about 1/4 inch thick.
5. Spread the olive oil over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Top with anchovies, onions, and tomatoes. Season with salt to taste.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sicilian Cannoli
Experience the authentic taste of Sicily with these crispy, fried pastry shells filled with sweetened ricotta cheese and chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 12-16 cannoli tubes (conchiglie)
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
+ 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
+ 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
+ 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
+ 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Slowly add the mixture to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
4. Drain cannoli shells on paper towels.
5. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and confectioners’ sugar. Mix well.
6. Fill cooled cannoli shells with the sweetened ricotta mixture and top with chopped chocolate chips.
Cooking Time:
– Frying time: 2-3 minutes per side
– Total time: 15-20 minutes
Involtini di Pesce Spada
This Italian-inspired dish is a flavorful and elegant way to prepare swordfish, wrapped around a delicious filling of fresh tomatoes and basil. Perfect for a special occasion or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 swordfish steaks (6 oz each)
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of prosciutto or pancetta
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together diced tomato, chopped basil, and minced garlic.
3. Season swordfish steaks with salt and pepper.
4. Place a spoonful of the tomato-basil mixture onto each swordfish steak, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Roll up each swordfish steak tightly, securing with a toothpick if needed.
6. Wrap each roll with prosciutto or pancetta slice.
7. Place rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the swordfish is cooked through and the prosciutto is crispy.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sicilian Lemon Granita
This refreshing dessert is a classic Sicilian treat that’s perfect for hot summer days. With its bright citrus flavor and icy texture, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 4 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon citric acid (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and lemon juice. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in water and citric acid (if using). Let cool to room temperature.
4. Pour the mixture into a shallow metal pan or a 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and place in freezer.
5. Every 30 minutes, remove the pan from the freezer and scrape the mixture with a fork to form crystals. Repeat for 2-3 hours, or until the desired consistency is reached.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (simmering) + 2-3 hours (freezing)
Pasta con le Sarde
This hearty pasta dish originates from Sicily, where sardines are a staple ingredient. With its rich flavors and textures, Pasta con le Sarde is a perfect representation of the region’s culinary traditions.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) rigatoni
– 2 cups (250g) cooked sardines in tomato sauce
– 1/4 cup (30g) chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Grated ricotta cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the sardines in tomato sauce, stirring to combine with garlic and oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
4. Add cooked rigatoni to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sardine mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with chopped parsley and grated ricotta cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sicilian Eggplant Parmesan
A classic Italian-American dish that combines the flavors of eggplant, tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Dip eggplant slices in flour mixture (flour, salt, and pepper), then coat with breadcrumbs.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry eggplant slices until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Transfer fried eggplant to a baking dish. Spoon tomato sauce over the eggplant, then sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
5. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Panelle Sicilian Chickpea Fritters
Experience the authentic flavors of Sicily with these crispy and delicious chickpea fritters, also known as panelle. This traditional recipe is a staple in Sicilian cuisine, often served as a snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mash the chickpeas using a fork or potato masher.
2. Add flour, baking powder, and salt to the mashed chickpeas. Mix well.
3. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the mixture into the oil. Flatten slightly with a spatula.
5. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve warm with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of garlic.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sicilian Almond Biscotti
Experience the classic Italian cookie, Sicilian Almond Biscotti, with a perfect balance of crunchy and chewy textures. This traditional recipe is flavored with almonds, anise, and citrus, making it a delightful accompaniment to your favorite coffee or tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 2 tablespoons anise seeds
– 2 tablespoons orange zest
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Stir in almonds, anise seeds, and orange zest.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Shape into a log and place on prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly golden. Let cool completely.
8. Slice into 1/2-inch thick cookies and bake at 325°F (165°C) for an additional 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
Cooking Time: Total cooking time: approximately 45-52 minutes.
Sicilian Stuffed Artichokes
Experience the authentic flavors of Sicily with this simple yet impressive recipe for stuffed artichokes. This classic Italian dish is perfect for special occasions or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4 large artichoke hearts, trimmed and quartered
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic, and parsley.
3. Stuff each artichoke quarter with the breadcrumb mixture, filling to the top.
4. Place stuffed artichokes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender and lightly browned.
6. Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bucatini with Swordfish and Eggplant
Experience the bold flavors of Italy with this hearty pasta dish, featuring tender swordfish, rich eggplant, and al dente bucatini.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz bucatini pasta
– 1 lb swordfish steaks, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook bucatini pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add swordfish and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add sliced eggplant and cook until tender, about 5-6 minutes per side. Season with salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
5. Combine cooked bucatini, swordfish, and eggplant in a large serving dish. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sicilian Olive Oil Cake
This traditional Sicilian cake is a staple of Mediterranean baking, featuring the rich flavor of olive oil instead of butter. The result is a tender, moist crumb with a subtle tang from the oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. Add eggs one at a time, whisking until smooth.
4. Whisk in olive oil, baking powder, and salt.
5. If using lemon zest, fold it into the batter.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sicilian Frittedda
A traditional Sicilian dish, Frittedda is a hearty and flavorful vegetable stew that showcases the island’s rich agricultural heritage. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized eggplants, chopped
– 1 large zucchini, chopped
– 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup of vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped eggplants and zucchini, and cook until they start to soften, about 10 minutes.
5. Add the cherry tomatoes, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Sicilian Meatballs in Tomato Sauce
This classic Sicilian dish is a staple of Italian cuisine, featuring tender meatballs cooked to perfection in a rich and tangy tomato sauce. Serve with pasta, garlic bread, or as a standalone main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and oregano. Simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes.
6. Add meatballs to the sauce and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sicilian Seafood Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew originating from the Mediterranean island of Sicily, this recipe combines a medley of seafood with aromatic spices and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams, scallops)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup fish broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add mixed seafood; cook for 2-3 minutes or until shells open.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, fish broth, oregano, saffron, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until seafood is cooked through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Summary
Get ready to taste the real deal with these 18 traditional Sicilian recipes! From classic arancini and pasta alla norma, to cannoli and cassata, these iconic dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Discover the bold flavors and aromas of Sicily’s rich culinary heritage, featuring ingredients like swordfish, eggplant, and olives. Whether you’re in the mood for savory meatballs or sweet almond biscotti, this collection has something for everyone.
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