Local cuisine
Valeggio sul Mincio is renowned for one of its most beloved culinary specialties: Tortellini di Valeggio, locally known as “agnolini.” These handmade delights, with a thin pasta layer and a delicate meat filling, are a staple of festive meals and special occasions in the town. They can be enjoyed in broth or with butter and sage, and are also available at artisanal workshops that preserve their traditional craftsmanship.
Beyond the classic meat-filled tortellini, local restaurants offer creative variations featuring seasonal vegetables, cheeses, or even unusual ingredients like game and fish, making for a rich and unique culinary experience.
This dish is steeped in a romantic legend: it is said to be inspired by the story of the nymph Silvia and Captain Malco, whose yellow silk cloth symbolizes love tied to the local area. From this tale comes the most famous name, “Nodo d’Amore” (Love Knot), which today represents not only a delicious dish but also an important cultural heritage of Valeggio.
The fame of this dish has inspired unique annual events: every year, the Festa del Nodo d’Amore transforms the Ponte Visconteo into a single, kilometer-long table for thousands of people. In September, the town hosts Tortellini e Dintorni, a three-day food and wine festival that brings the historic center alive with tastings, events, and activities for visitors of all ages.