1.
What oil or salt preserved fish are "filletti di acciughe" made from?
Correct Answer
C. Anchovy
Explanation
"Filletti di acciughe" are made from anchovies. Anchovies are small, oily fish that are commonly used in various cuisines, especially in Mediterranean dishes. They are often preserved in oil or salt to enhance their flavor and extend their shelf life. "Filletti di acciughe" refers to the fillets of anchovies that have been prepared and preserved in this way. They are commonly used as a topping or ingredient in salads, pizzas, and pasta dishes.
2.
What is the appetizer or first course of an Italian meal called?
Correct Answer
B. Antipasto
Explanation
Antipasto is the correct answer because it refers to the appetizer or first course of an Italian meal. It typically consists of a variety of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and vegetables, served cold or at room temperature. Antipasto is a traditional part of Italian cuisine and is often served before the main course to stimulate the appetite.
3.
Which Italian cookie literally means "twice-baked"?
Correct Answer
B. Biscotti
Explanation
Biscotti is the correct answer because it is an Italian cookie that is known for being twice-baked. The word "biscotti" actually translates to "twice-cooked" in Italian. This cookie is first baked in a loaf shape, then sliced and baked again to achieve a crispy texture. Biscotti is often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea, and it can be flavored with various ingredients such as almonds, chocolate, or dried fruits.
4.
What are grissini?
Correct Answer
A. Breadsticks
Explanation
Grissini are thin, crispy breadsticks that originated in Italy. They are typically made from a simple dough of flour, water, yeast, and salt, which is then rolled into long, thin sticks and baked until golden brown. Grissini are often served as an appetizer or snack, and they can be enjoyed on their own or paired with dips, spreads, or cured meats. Their crunchy texture and savory flavor make them a popular choice among bread lovers.
5.
What is the Italian delicacy of cooked squid called?
Correct Answer
D. Calamari
Explanation
Calamari is the correct answer because it refers to the Italian delicacy of cooked squid. Calamari is a popular dish in Italian cuisine, often served as an appetizer or main course. It is made by frying or grilling squid, which results in a tender and flavorful seafood dish.
6.
What Italian dessert is made from sweetened ricotta stuffed into crispy pastry tubes?
Correct Answer
D. Cannoli
Explanation
Cannoli is an Italian dessert made from sweetened ricotta cheese that is stuffed into crispy pastry tubes. The pastry tubes are typically deep-fried or baked until they become golden and crispy. The sweetened ricotta filling is often flavored with ingredients such as vanilla, chocolate chips, or candied fruit. Cannoli is a popular dessert in Italian cuisine and is enjoyed for its contrasting textures of the crispy shell and creamy filling.
7.
Which of these dishes is not Italian?
Correct Answer
A. Chop Suey
Explanation
Chop Suey is not an Italian dish. It is actually a Chinese-American dish that originated in the United States. It typically consists of meat, vegetables, and a sauce, and is often served with rice. While Risotto, Pizza, and Fettuccini are all popular Italian dishes, Chop Suey does not have Italian origins and is therefore not considered Italian cuisine.
8.
What cheese can be substituted for ricotta in lasagna?
Correct Answer
C. Cottage Cheese
Explanation
Cottage cheese can be substituted for ricotta in lasagna because it has a similar texture and mild flavor that complements the other ingredients. It is a fresh cheese made from curds, just like ricotta, and can provide a creamy and slightly tangy taste to the dish. Additionally, cottage cheese has a lower fat content compared to ricotta, making it a healthier alternative without compromising on taste and texture.
9.
Which of these would you probably not put on a pizza?
Correct Answer
C. Blueberries
Explanation
Blueberries would probably not be put on a pizza because they have a sweet taste and are commonly used in desserts or breakfast dishes rather than savory dishes like pizza. The other options, tomatoes, mushrooms, and olives, are commonly used as toppings on pizzas and complement the flavors of the cheese and other ingredients.
10.
Which of these herbs is not used in Italian cooking?
Correct Answer
B. Curry Powder
Explanation
Curry powder is not used in Italian cooking because it is a blend of various spices commonly used in Indian cuisine. Italian cooking typically incorporates herbs like oregano, basil, and parsley, which are native to the Mediterranean region and complement the flavors of Italian dishes. However, curry powder, with its distinct and strong flavor profile, does not align with the traditional Italian taste palette.
11.
What pizza dough making technique has become a competitive sport?
Correct Answer
A. Dough Tossing
Explanation
Dough Tossing has become a competitive sport in pizza dough making. This technique involves skillfully tossing and spinning the dough in the air to stretch and shape it. It requires precision and practice to achieve the desired thinness and round shape. Dough Tossing competitions have gained popularity, where participants showcase their ability to toss the dough high in the air and catch it without tearing or deforming it. This technique adds flair and entertainment to the pizza-making process, making it an exciting sport.
12.
What are uova?
Correct Answer
D. Eggs
13.
Which one of these pastas is not long and straight?
Correct Answer
C. Elbow Macaroni
Explanation
Elbow Macaroni is not long and straight because it has a curved and tubular shape. Unlike Spaghetti, Linguine, and Vermicelli, which are all long and straight, Elbow Macaroni is short and has a characteristic elbow-like shape.
14.
When making classic bruschetta, what ingredient is a must?
Correct Answer
B. Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Explanation
In classic bruschetta, the must-have ingredient is extra virgin olive oil. This ingredient is essential as it adds a rich and fruity flavor to the dish, enhances the taste of the tomatoes and garlic, and provides a smooth texture to the bread. Without the extra virgin olive oil, the bruschetta would lack its signature taste and may appear dry. Mascarpone cheese, prosciutto cotto, and espresso are not typically used in classic bruschetta recipes.
15.
Which of these would you not typically find in an antipasti platter?
Correct Answer
D. Gelati
Explanation
An antipasti platter is a traditional Italian appetizer dish, typically consisting of a variety of cured meats, cheeses, and vegetables. Gelati, which refers to Italian ice cream, is not typically found in an antipasti platter. This is because gelati is a dessert item, while antipasti platters are meant to be savory and serve as a precursor to the main course.
16.
What baked Italian dish is made of ripple-edged noodles, tomato sauce, and ricotta cheese?
Correct Answer
C. Lasagna
Explanation
Lasagna is a baked Italian dish that is made of ripple-edged noodles, tomato sauce, and ricotta cheese. It is a popular dish known for its layers of pasta, meat or vegetable fillings, and cheese. The noodles are typically layered with the tomato sauce and ricotta cheese mixture, creating a delicious and hearty meal. Lasagna is often baked until the top layer is golden and bubbly, making it a favorite comfort food for many.
17.
Geography aside, where do olives grow?
Correct Answer
A. On Trees
Explanation
Olives grow on trees. Olive trees are typically found in Mediterranean climates, where they thrive in warm, sunny weather. The trees produce small, green fruits that gradually ripen and turn black. Olives are commonly cultivated for their oil, which is widely used in cooking and skincare products. The trees can live for hundreds of years and require well-drained soil and regular pruning to maintain their health and productivity.
18.
Which animal is best at finding truffles?
Correct Answer
C. Pigs
Explanation
Pigs are known to have an exceptional sense of smell, which makes them highly skilled at finding truffles. Truffles are a type of fungus that grow underground and emit a strong aroma. Pigs have been traditionally used for truffle hunting because they can easily detect the scent and dig up the truffles without damaging them. While other animals like horses, chimpanzees, and rabbits may also have some ability to find truffles, pigs have proven to be the most effective and reliable in this task.