QL Special: 11 Italian dishes you should try in Doha

Qatar Living is approaching its 11th anniversary and we are going to do a series of posts to celebrate eleven years of contributing to Qatar's community. The 11-themed posts are going to continue for a while, so stay tuned.

If you occasionally crave Italian food, and don't know where to go or what to order, we have just listed 11 Italian dishes you must try at various restaurants around Doha.

1. Pizza Mediterranea – Of course we all know what Pizza is. But for a real taste of some authentic Italian pizza, try the Mediterranea at French Olive. With Buffalo Mozarella and fresh tomatoes, this has got to be one of the best pizzas you can taste in Qatar

2. Papardelle – Pappardelle is basically broad flat pasta noodles. It is more or less like fettucine but broader. We absolutely love the Pappardelle Papermoon at Papermoon in Jaidah square. The sauce is delicious and the flavour of the bacon is just perfect.

3. Tagliatelle alla Bolognese – Tagliatelle is long, ribbon shaped pasta and combined with the beef in Bolognese sauce, this dish is a real crowd pleaser. French Olive serves some fantastic Tagliatelle alla Bolognese and if you haven't tried this already, we suggest you do not waste any more time!

4. Paccherri ai Porcini – Papermoon has the best Paccheri and the cream and mushrooms with walnuts makes the best combination ever.

5. Spaghetti Aglio – This is a very basic spaghetti but it is so authentic, light and delicious, it leaves you feeling highly satisfied, yet very light. Lo Spaghetto's Spaghetti Aglio is so flavourful and dowsed in olive oil, garlic, and breadcrumbs and is topped with Parmesan. Ask for a spicy version, if that works for you.

6. Risotto – Risotto is yet another common dish that you can find in pretty much every Italian restaurant. The Risotto Tartufato at Nonna Zanon in West Bay tastes like a dream, especially if you love truffles. This dish has mushrooms and truffle oil, basically the perfect comfort food.

7. Ravioli – You possibly never expected to find this here, but the Mushroom and Cheese Ravioli with pink sauce at Al Koot Café in Souq Waqif is unbelievably good and the most delicious thing you will taste for a long time. It's reasonably priced too, at QR 35. We also absolutely love the truffle Ravioli at La Spiga at the W Hotel.

8. Parmigiana – This eggplant and tomato based dish is a popular favourite and if you're in the mood for a little foodie adventure, locate Italia Mia, a true hidden gem, at Souq Waqif and try their Parmigiani. It's a small portion for QR 18, but it tastes great and makes for a wonderful and quick snack.

9. Cannelloni – This is Cylindrical tube of pasta, usually filled with ingredients and baked with cheese. We love the spinach and ricotta version of it. The Italian Job at Radisson Blu serves some great Cannelloni.

10. Lasagne – Probably the number one Italian dish, Lasagne usually comes in Bolognese sauce and béchamel sauce. Try the one at Vanelli's in Villaggio mall! It's definitely a food court version of Lasagne, but who cares as long as it tastes good?

11. Gnocchi – These soft dumplings are made from a variety of ingredients including potato. Served in several different sauces, we recommend the Gnocchi Gorgonzola at Le Vesuvio, served with Gorgonzola cheese and fresh spinach.

How many of these have you tried? Have we missed out something? Let us know in the comments!