What are some Italian American dishes and foods that are not eaten in Italy?

This is an interesting question and lets be controversial.

It is tempting to say almost all of them as, by definition, Italian American dishes cannot be Italian.

The essence of Italian food is its simplicity and the genuineness of the ingredients.

If the raw ingredients such as tomatoes are grown in the US or elsewhere, they are not going to make a real Italian dish.

There is a huge debate about the authenticity of Italian sounding foods purchased abroad (and in Italy for that matter).

There is pressure from the farmers in Italy for all Italian food to be certified as the real thing, eg parmigiano reggiano cheese and not parmesan cheese.

Taking the spirit of the question to heart, however, spaghetti and meatballs is the definitive answer.

But if you head to some areas of Abruzzo even this may be invitingly incorrect.

First answer by Deliciousitaly. Last edit by Deliciousitaly. Contributor trust: 45 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 8 [recommend question]