Marmellata vs. confettura
In Italian cuisine, 'marmellata' and 'confettura' are both terms used for spreads made from fruit, but they have distinct differences in ingredients and preparation.
Marmellata
'Marmellata' specifically refers to a spread made from citrus fruits, particularly oranges or lemons.
La marmellata di arance è un classico della colazione italiana.
(Orange marmalade is a classic of Italian breakfast.)
Ho preparato una torta con la marmellata di limoni.
(I prepared a cake with lemon marmalade.)
Confettura
'Confettura' is a more general term for jam made from any type of fruit other than citrus.
La confettura di fragole è perfetta sui pancake.
(Strawberry jam is perfect on pancakes.)
Ho comprato una confettura di pesche al mercato contadino.
(I bought a peach jam at the farmers' market.)
Summary
While 'marmellata' is specifically used for citrus-based spreads, 'confettura' refers to jams made from any non-citrus fruit. Both are popular in Italian cuisine, but are used in different contexts based on the fruit ingredients.