Sicily Food Guide

Arancini

These stuffed rice balls are coated in breadcrumbs and deep fried, creating the perfect snack. They are stuffed with a variety of fillings, ranging from an alla norma (see below_ inspired arancini with eggplant, tomato sauce and salata cheese to caprese arancini with basil, diced tomato and mozzarella. Though occasionally found outside Sicily, the best and most authentic can only be tried on the island. 

Alla Norma 

Penne alla norma is a very common sicilian pasta dish that consists of eggplant, tomato sauce and penne pasta, all topped with ricotta salata cheese. This cheese, unlike your grocery store ricotta, is pressed and aged to create a harder, saltier cheese able to be shredded. 

Granita 

Granita is traditionally made from the ice of Mt. Etna, but now is available in most dessert and coffee shops on the island. It is a thin, shaved ice sometimes served on a brioche bun that comes in flavors ranging from pistachio to chocolate. Though most tourists partake to get reprieve from the midday sun, locals eat granita for breakfast. 

Cannolo Siciliano 

The iconic dessert originated in Sicily. It consists of a fried shell, sweet ricotta filling, and is typically topped with a candied orange rind, cherry, pistachios, or chocolate chips. Avoid the typical tourist faux pas by referring to it as a cannolo (singular) instead of cannoli (plural). 

Panelle

These fried chickpea squares are the perfect snack or appetizer. Though their appearance is rather bland, panelle are perfectly seasoned and can not be missed. 

Cassata Siciliana

This adorable pistachio tinted dessert consists of a marzipan shell stuff with sweetened ricotta and top with candied fruit. It is traditionally served around Easter, but had a daily slot in my Sicilian itinerary. It can be found at most bakeries and breakfast spots. 

Bonus: Grappa

This liquor is considered a digestive to be taken after meals to assist in digestion, perfect for after a long day of trying all of Sicilians finest foods. It is commonly given for free in more local spots, or can be purchased for a couple euros. It is made from grape skin and resembles a smooth vodka.