Ferragosto, celebrated on August 15th, is an Italian holiday that marks the peak of summer and serves as a joyful occasion to gather with family and friends. The name “Ferragosto” comes from the Latin phrase “Feriae Augusti,” meaning “Augustus’ rest.” Today, Ferragosto is synonymous with summer vacations, outdoor gatherings, and indulgent meals. Whether you’re hosting a grand feast or having a simple meal with loved ones, these five dishes will help you get into the Ferragosto spirit.
1. Taralli di Ferragosto
Begin your celebration with Taralli di Ferragosto, a sweet twist on the classic Italian breadstick. Originating from southern Italy, particularly Campania and Puglia, these ‘O’ shaped treats are traditionally savory, but for Ferragosto, they are made sweet. They are glazed with a mixture of water and sugar, and lightly flavored with lemon juice, offering a delightful blend of sweet and citrus.
2. Biscotto di Mezz’Agosto
For a unique dessert, try Biscotto di Mezz’Agosto, or ‘mid-August biscuit.’ This specialty from Pitigliano in Tuscany is shaped like a doughnut and flavored with wine and fennel seeds.
3. Gelo di Anguria
In Sicily, Gelo di Anguria is the perfect sweet treat to cool you down during Ferragosto. This fun dessert is made from fresh watermelon and set with cornflour for a smooth, jelly-like texture without the use of gelatin. It’s usually mixed with cinnamon, rose water, crunchy pistachios and chunks of dark chocolate.
4. Zitoni di Ferragosto
From the Campania region and the Amalfi Coast comes Zitoni di Ferragosto, a special pasta dish. Zitoni are long cylindrical pasta that are broken into shorter pieces and cooked with a rich sauce of fresh and sun-dried tomatoes, along with capers. This dish can be enjoyed as-is or baked with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. Pizza
No Italian celebration is complete without pizza. For an easy and delicious Ferragosto at home, try one of Oggi’s signature pizzas. Our “Margherita Pizza” is a classic choice, featuring a thin, crispy crust topped with fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and basil. This simple yet delicious dish captures the “dolce vita” spirit of the holiday.
Whether you’re preparing these dishes from scratch or ordering from your favorite restaurant, each meal brings its own unique taste to your Ferragosto celebration. Enjoy the holiday with good food and great company!
