The Italian area of Marche is a jewel that is tucked away between the Adriatic Sea and the Apennine Mountains. Though it is frequently eclipsed by its more well-known neighbors, Marche has a lively cultural past, beautiful scenery, and a rich tapestry of culinary delights that are just waiting to be explored—including a traditional Marche dish you’ll love to make at home if you love lasagna.  Join us on a journey through Marche, where every dish tells a story, and every corner reveals a new adventure.

The food of Marche is an ode to simplicity, genuineness, and the freshest produce available, both on land and in the sea. Every area of Marche, from the sun-kissed hills to the turquoise sea, offers a different culinary experience that satisfies the palate and uplifts the spirit.

A trip to Marche’s cuisine would not be complete without sampling its signature dish, Vincisgrassi. Delicate sheets of homemade pasta are layered with thick ragù, creamy béchamel, and a generous sprinkle of Parmigiano-Reggiano in this indulgent dish that resembles one of America’s favorite Italian recipes– lasagna. 

Seafood aficionados will delight in Marche’s coastal bounty, with dishes like Brodetto di Pesce showcasing the freshest catch of the day simmered in a fragrant tomato broth infused with garlic, saffron, and a hint of chili. Paired with crusty bread and a glass of crisp Verdicchio wine, it’s a feast fit for royalty and can be made in minutes at home with local fresh seafood.

Venture inland, and you’ll discover the rustic charm of Marche’s countryside, where hearty soups like Passatelli enliven evening mealtimes with a comforting embrace. Made from chicken broth, breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, these delicate dumplings float in the golden broth with a a subtle, unique taste twist from a dash of nutmeg.

Marche’s cuisine celebrates life’s sweetness with treats like Ciambelle, delicate ring-shaped cookies flavored with anise and lemon zest, or the irresistible Torta al Testo, a rustic flatbread stuffed with Nutella or local cheeses.

Marche entices visitors with its captivating landscapes and rich cultural legacy in addition to its culinary gems. Explore the medieval hilltop towns of Urbino, Ascoli Piceno, and Loreto, where cobbled streets whisper tales of bygone eras and panoramic views take your breath away.

The Sibillini Mountains are an adventurer’s paradise, offering everything from skiing and paragliding to hiking and mountain riding. Immerse yourself in the unspoiled splendor of Monti Sibillini National Park, a place of natural wonder where verdant valleys, glistening lakes, and snow-capped peaks abound.

No visit to Marche is complete without immersing yourself in its vibrant festivals and traditions. Experience the pageantry of Carnevale di Fano, where colorful masks and elaborate costumes transform the streets into a carnival of delights, or join locals in celebrating the Festa della Vendemmia, the annual grape harvest festival that pays homage to Marche’s winemaking heritage.

If you can’t get to Marche, you can bring a little taste of it to your home tonight with a recipe from the region.  Savor the simple pleasures of life and discover the true essence of Genuine Italian cooking. 

Buon viaggio & buona Buona mangia!