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11 Foods You Have to Try on Holiday in Sicily

The beautiful, balmy Mediterranean island of Sicily, located just off the tip of Italy's boot, has a distinct cuisine; fresh, vibrant and flavoursome, radiating a sunny positivity that encapsulates the soul of the island itself. What's more, it feels rich in that Mediterranean spirit, that eating should be a pleasure; a warm, soulful and satisfying experience, whether it's a stolen moment alone or a lively social affair with loved ones.

One of the most essential aspects of Sicilian cuisine is its home-grown, seasonal and quality ingredients. Whilst Sicilians export their delicious produce all around the world, they don't import, and the island's infrastructure prevents food from travelling far; so wherever you go, you're guaranteed to be eating deliciously fresh and locally-sourced cuisine. Its geography and history have also played a big part in its culinary traditions, taking influences from French, Arabic and North African settlers, as well as neighbouring Greece, resulting in fragrant and flavoursome dishes that will feed your heart and put a big smile on your face.

1. Arancini (Deep-Fried Risotta Balls)

A staple across the island, these delicious little morsels are deep-fried risotto balls, with a gorgeously gooey centre. The most famous version sees the rice flavoured with saffron and filled with ragu, peas and mozzarella, but the ingredients vary depending on location. In the south-east of the island the rice is cooked with tomato and mozzarella, and in the centre of Sicily, arancini is filled with succulent chicken liver.

2. Sfincione (Pizza Pie)

Unlike the traditionally thin-based pizza of neighbouring Italy, Sfincione has a thick and deliciously doughy base,. It's usually served 'white' (i.e. without the tomato sauce) and topped with cheese, onions and anchovies, and you'll see this served all over the island as a classic Sicilian street food dish.

3. Pasta alla Norma

With elegant ancestry – taking its name from an opera written by Puccini – this traditional Sicilian pasta dish is not to be missed. A simple combination of aubergine, tomatoes and salted ricotta served with short pasta, this rich and wholesome creation is a classic.

4. Stuffed Swordfish Rolls

Pesce Spada (swordfish) is one of the most popular fish in Sicily, and these beautifully breadcrumbed golden rolls are a heavenly combination of sweet and salty. Filled with pine nuts and raisins, the sweet creaminess of the middle balances out the saltiness of the fish, making a mouthwatering starter. Enjoy it by the coast, with a side of that sea air.

5. Caponata (Stewed Aubergine)

Caponata is a rich aubergine-based dish, a perfect balance of sweet and sour, slowly stewed with bags of flavour and served in a tomato sauce. It stands proudly as a dish in its own right, but is a wonderful accompaniment to salads, antipasti, or simply a good hunk of homemade bread.

6. Granita (Flavoured Crushed Ice)

Granita has a delightful history. With high mountains in parts of Sicily, ice was once cut from the top and brought down to its inhabitants, where it was crushed and flavoured and served as a dessert. Popular flavours include watermelon, almond, pistachio, lemon and mulberry – and it's so deliciously dense it needs to be eaten with a spoon. During the summer, it is served as a coffee, topped with whipped cream. Enjoy it with a brioche – to be truly authentic!

7. Pane e Pannelle (Fried Chickpea Polenta in Bread)

You may be familiar with polenta, but this Sicilian dish brings it to life in a cool and creative way. Seasoned with herbs, these golden fritters are deep-fried and served in a white sesame bun, with a squeeze of sharp Sicilian lemon. Pick one up from a street food vendor whilst you're out enjoying the Mediterranean sun.

8. Baked Aneletti (Pasta Pie)

This is the sort of dish that dreams are made of, and a totally unique way to serve pasta (at least it is for the UK's popular pasta + sauce duo). Little ring-shaped pasta is baked in a mould, and when you cut into it, you'll find a melting pot of tomato ragu, garlicky aubergine and oozing mozzarella cheese.

9. Torta Setteveli (Seven Veils Cake)

A rich and indulgent cake made with seven layers of chocolate and toasted hazelnuts. No more information needed!

10. Pane Cunzato (Seasoned Bread)

The simplicity is the star of this creation, and this hearty and flavoursome bread pops up all over Sicily. Originally, it was generously seasoned with only salt, pepper, and good olive oil, but it has evolved and been adapted to now include whatever flavours and ingredients you wish. A classic combination is cheese, tomatoes and fresh anchovies. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven and still slightly warm; dipped in olive oil and balsamic vinegar if you fancy.

11. Brioche Gelato (Ice Cream Brioche)

If you were a kid again and asked to think of your favourite sandwich, you'd dream up an 'Ice Cream Sandwich!' - knowing fine well you'd never get it. Not so! In Sicily, this scrumptious sweet milk roll is filled with the richest, creamiest and freshest gelato you'll ever taste. You'll also have the biggest range of flavours you could ever desire, but vanilla, coffee and pistachio are brioche gelato classics.