It’s the week of Thanksgiving, and although Thanksgiving isn’t celebrated in Italy, there are numerous festivals throughout the fall where scrumptious Italian cuisine takes center stage. Mushrooms, in particular, are everywhere after the November rain and cooler weather spawn countless edible fungi.

In 2019, Italy produced over 90 metric tons of mushrooms, making it the second largest mushroom producing country in the world (behind the United States). From oyster mushrooms (great for grilling) to porcini mushrooms (the “King of Mushrooms,” delicious in pasta or as a stand-alone side dish) to the classic portobello mushrooms (versatile and served in hundreds of ways), Italy has no shortage of mushrooms varieties. With so many types and a plethora of serving options, even people who don’t like mushrooms can surely find a type and style of preparation that suits their palate.

If you want to add an Umbrian twist to your Thanksgiving table this year (whether with or without mushrooms), check out the Alla Madonna del Piatto food blog! Owned and run by Italian food writer Letizia Mattiacci, Alla Madonna del Piatto is a cooking school and agritourism business located just outside of Assisi in Umbria. Check out the Alla Madonna del Piatto blog for everything from homemade pasta recipes to quick Umbrian inspired side dishes to spice up your Thanksgiving this year. https://madonnadelpiatto.com/recipes/