How an ancient mountain dish is powering Winter Olympians

At the 2026 Winter Olympics, one hearty Italian dish is quietly becoming a favourite among athletes -- pizzoccheri. Served in the Olympic Village, this traditional mountain pasta is winning over competitors looking for warmth, comfort, and serious fuel during the Games. (wikimedia commons)

What Is Pizzoccheri? Pizzoccheri is a rustic buckwheat pasta from northern Italy’s Valtellina region. Unlike regular wheat pasta, it has a nutty flavour and darker colour, making it both hearty and deeply satisfying, perfect for cold Alpine conditions. (wikimedia commons)

A Traditional Mountain Recipe: Classic pizzoccheri is cooked with potatoes and cabbage (or Swiss chard), then layered with generous amounts of cheese and melted butter infused with garlic. It’s designed to provide warmth and sustenance, exactly what athletes need in freezing temperatures. (wikimedia commons)

Buckwheat’s Nutritional Edge: Because it’s made from buckwheat, pizzoccheri contains more fibre and a slightly higher protein content than standard pasta. This helps with digestion and steady energy release during intense training schedules. (unsplash)

Comfort Food Meets Performance Fuel: Beyond nutrition, pizzoccheri offers something equally important: comfort. For athletes far from home, warm, flavourful dishes can boost morale. At these Winter Games, pizzoccheri is proving that food can be both traditional and performance driven. (wikimedia commons)

Local Flavour at the Olympics: Since the Games are hosted in Italy, the Olympic Village menu highlights regional specialties. Pizzoccheri stands out as a cultural showcase, allowing athletes to experience authentic northern Italian cuisine while staying performance ready. (unsplash)

Comfort Food Meets the Olympic Stage: Beyond being trendy, pizzoccheri represents how food at the Olympics blends culture and community. Shared in dining halls filled with competitors from around the world, it’s become part of the Games’ unique atmosphere. (wikimedia commons)