Cured meats and cheeses: a journey into tradition

Cured meats and cheeses are pillars of the Italian culinary tradition . They represent a journey through the country's unique flavors and aromas, offering a wide range of tastes and textures . Nutritionally, while some emphasize their nutritional benefits, others highlight the potential cons, especially for those who follow a vegetarian and vegan diet. However, when consumed in moderation and as part of a balanced diet, cured meats and cheeses can be an integral part of an authentic and tasty culinary experience.

Cured meats , such as prosciutto, guanciale, and salami, are loved for their intense flavor and versatility in the kitchen. However, when it comes to nutritional considerations, it is important to make some considerations. Cured meats, for example, are generally high in saturated fat and sodium , which can contribute to an increased risk of heart problems and high blood pressure if consumed in excess. To consume cured meats healthily, limit the portion to 50 grams per day , preferring lean and low-fat cured meats , such as turkey and bresaola. Avoid smoked ones because they are higher in preservatives and nitrosamines . Finally, try to pair cured meats with fresh vegetables and complex carbohydrates, such as whole-grain bread or pasta .

Cheeses , such as parmesan, pecorino and gorgonzola, are famous throughout the world for their richness and variety of flavors. They can be a good source of protein , calcium and vitamin D. However, some cheeses are very high in saturated fat, so it is advisable to prefer low-fat or low-fat ones for a balanced diet, such as fresh cheeses (ricotta, cottage cheese, primosale and mozzarella) or leaner aged cheeses , such as parmesan, grana padano, pecorino romano, fontina. As for light cheeses , it is important to point out that they have undergone a treatment to reduce their fat and calorie content, and therefore could be less natural and authentic. For this reason, as with cured meats, it is perhaps better to limit the daily portion to 30 grams and eat them combined with fresh vegetables or fruit or complex carbohydrates.