With its Italian-inspired obsessions with Olive Garden and Nutella, America clearly tries its best to stay hip with European foods. But it’s still got some work to do. The United States could definitely benefit by introducing some of these tasty snacks:
1. Pizzette Sfoglia
Photo by Marissa Laliberte
These little suckers are like a cross between a Bagel Bite and a croissant. And croissants combined with just about anything are a sure-fire success (cronut, anyone?). These mini pizzas have a flaky crust and are topped with a sweet, smooth tomato sauce, making them a great snack that satisfies your need for pizza.
2. Coffee Vending Machines
Photo by Marissa Laliberte
Class is probably the No. 1 most-needed location for a caffeine boost. But ain’t nobody got time to wait in line at Starbucks when you’re already late for class. In times like these, a coffee vending machine right in your academic building would be incredibly handy. And these machines don’t limit you to plain ol’ espresso. You can also treat yourself to a creamy caramel macchiato, rich chocolate cappuccino or fresh lemon tea.
3. Kinder Chocolate
Photo by Marissa Laliberte
Little known fact: Nutella, Tic Tacs and Ferrero Rocher are all made by the same company. Littler known fact: The company has a line of chocolate, Kinder, that isn’t found often in America. Its Bueno bars feature a hazelnut filling surrounded by a wafer shell and covered with chocolate. If Nutella and KitKat bars had a baby, this would be it.
4. Wine Juice Boxes
Photo by Marissa Laliberte
Personal boxes of wine, complete with a straw hole. Need I say more? Bust these out during a pregame and you can feel like a classy wine-drinker without any obligation to share a bottle with your friends.
5. Frutti di Bosca
Photo by Marissa Laliberte
This wild berry variety is the most common flavor of jelly in Italy and is way more exciting than your PB&J’s usual grape or strawberry. Try the sweet, fruity spread on toast or bake them into cookies. Its smooth texture with the occasional mini berry will complement any jelly-based recipe perfectly.
6. Gelato
Photo by Deana Schettino
Sure, America’s got ice cream, but it really can’t compare to the deliciousness that is gelato. After it’s churned, gelato has less air in it than ice cream does, leaving it in a creamy state that ice cream could never measure up to. Sure, Talenti, Breyer’s and other brands have tried their best to imitate the Italian way, but nothing can compare to the real thing, made with real Italian ingredients.
Read these before starting your search for international food: