5 Incredible Sicilian Recipes to Enjoy at Home

People often assume Sicilian and Italian food are the same due to their many similarities, and the island’s proximity to its mainland counterpart. However, what makes Sicilian recipes so incredible is the way that, over centuries, the culinary style has been influenced by the people who invaded and inhabited the land.

Arabs, Romans, Africans, Greeks, Spanish and the French all left parts of their cooking traditions on the island, which has morphed over time to become what we now call traditional Sicilian food.

This rich history reflects the homey, hearty flavours which come through when eating these delicious dishes. The food makes you nostalgic towards this beautiful island, too – if you have been fortune enough to visit!

Despite its complex history, these 5 Sicilian  recipes are not tricky to recreate! Read on for our top picks.

1. Pasta alla norma

Pasta alla norma is an extremely popular recipe throughout Sicily, which originated from the eastern coastal city of Catania. It encompasses crispy aubergine mixed with rich tomato sauce and creamy ricotta, which all comes together to create a delicious, quick, and inexpensive dish.

Other essential ingredients include fresh basil and garlic to add flavour. Rigatoni or penne is most commonly when it comes to the pasta type. This Sicilian recipe is perfect for a light lunch or a hearty supper!

2. Arancine al burro

Although ‘arancini’ is most commonly used in English, there is often debate as to this dish’s pronunciation; in Sicily, they are commonly referred to as ‘arancine’.

These wonderful balls of risotto are the perfect starter or canapé that is guaranteed to be a big crowd pleaser. These delicacies are covered in breadcrumbs that are deep fried, with oozing mozzarella, bechamal sauce, ham, and another cheese of your choice inside. There are also lots of yummy alternative fillings you can try if you want to get creative.

3. Pasta con le sarde

This delicious pasta dish originates from Palermo, the capital of Sicily, and is a truly classic Sicilian recipe. Long bucatini or spaghetti are prepared in a fresh, fragrant sauce made from onions, fennel, raisins, pine nuts, anchovies, sardines and saffron.

Breadcrumbs are scattered on top instead of cheese to give it a lovely crunch. This Sicilian recipe is a fantastically unique pasta dish quite unlike any other.

4. Aubergine parmigiana

Parmigiana di melanzane is seen in every Sicilian and Italian restaurant and home, with each family boasting their own special recipe. Aubergine is one of the most popular vegetables in the region, and is a vital ingredient for lots of traditional Sicilian recipes.

Slice the aubergine into pieces, fry until golden, make your tomato sauce with fresh basil, and layer with parmesan and/or pecorino, then bake! Add a boiled egg if it takes your fancy.

5. Cannoli

If you fancy something sweet, then look no further: the famous cannoli has a crunchy shell but creamy ricotta filling. These traditional Sicilian desserts are perfect for after a meal, or even as a midday snack. They are not too heavy, and make a delicious light treat!

Cannoli originated from Sicily, but can now be found in every Italian patisserie. In fact, these unusual desserts actually Sicily’s biggest export!