Christmas in Sardina has a special significance; it’s the time when thousands of Sardinians living in mainland Italy return home to spend the holidays with the family — and you know that means some extraordinary parties with lots of wine and great food!
A typical Christmas meal is served center-table family-style, and although every household has its own favorite Christmas dishes, and regional variations exist, expect to find at least one big main course, more often than not, roasted lamb. You’ll also find a wide variety of pasta, including ravioli stuffed with creamy ricotta, or the famous malloreddus, the island’s conch-shape take on gnocchi. Aged pecorino cheese always has a spot at the table, and so is the wide variety of artisan bread and cured meats.
No Christmas meal is complete without a variety of home-made sweets. Mostly sweet pastries and puffed fried delicacies sweetened with sugar and the prized local honey. A panettone, a tall brioche-like bread with raisins, nuts and dried fruits, is popular, but there are many other baked treats on the island, so be prepared to be surprised.
As for the drinks, you know there will be lots of Vermentino white wine and heartier Cannonau red wine. Two unique specialties to Sardinia. And there’s no better time of year to enjoy the island’s sweet passito wine.
Good laughs, deep conversations and long hours around the table are guaranteed. And make the most of your Christmas holiday by visiting the Christmas markets, experience the customary nativity scenes and do your gift shopping around town.
The best part? Winter in Sardinia is never that cold. Sure, don’t expect Summer’s warmth, but mild, chilly weather. Fear not; there’s always something baking in Sardinia’s ovens that’s guaranteed to keep you warm. Are you hungry already? Where are you spending this year’s Christmas?
