Ah, Italy – a land of love, passion, and exquisite cuisine. When it comes to delicious and easy-to-make Italian dishes, there’s no shortage of options. From classic pasta dishes to savory meatballs and rich risottos, the possibilities are endless. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering Italian recipes that are sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these dishes are perfect for anyone looking to add some Italian flair to their cooking repertoire.
So grab your apron, put on your favorite Italian tunes, and let’s get started with our first recipe: Spaghetti Aglio e Olio – a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the classic combo of spaghetti, garlic, and olive oil. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a staple in your household.
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, or spaghetti with garlic and oil, is a simple yet flavorful Italian dish that requires only a few ingredients. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal when you don’t feel like cooking all day.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6-8 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Red pepper flakes (optional)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add thinly sliced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
3. Add reserved pasta cooking liquid to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic and oil.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together to combine.
5. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese (if desired).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Basil Bruschetta
Tomato Basil Bruschetta Recipe: A Classic Italian Appetizer
Elevate your next gathering with this simple yet flavorful Tomato Basil Bruschetta recipe, perfect for any occasion. Fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy mozzarella come together to create a delightful combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
- 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Toasted baguette slices, brush with olive oil and top each slice with a spoonful of the tomato mixture, followed by shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Let sit for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes prep and assembly)
Classic Margherita Pizza
Experience the quintessential Italian pizza with this simple yet flavorful recipe. The combination of sweet tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fragrant basil leaves will transport you to the Tuscan countryside.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) pizza dough
– 2 cups (400ml) crushed tomatoes
– 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup (15g) extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3mm).
3. Spread the crushed tomatoes evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with sliced mozzarella cheese and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Sprinkle basil leaves and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Risotto
Rich and creamy risotto dish packed with sautéed mushrooms and infused with the flavors of Italian cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; sauté until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add white wine (if using); stir until absorbed.
5. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. Remove from heat; stir in butter and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Savor the flavors of Italy with this mouthwatering Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta recipe, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine or fettuccine)
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through (2-3 minutes per side). Remove from heat.
4. If using white wine, add to the skillet and stir to deglaze (1 minute).
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp mixture, and parsley in a serving dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Ground Beef
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until combined.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the meat mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Homemade Pesto Pasta
Bring the flavors of Italy to your table with this simple and flavorful homemade pesto pasta recipe. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/2 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Process until well combined.
3. With the processor running, slowly add the olive oil through the top. Process until smooth.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the pesto sauce and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Spaghetti cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Pesto preparation time: 5 minutes
– Total cooking time: 13-15 minutes
Chicken Parmesan
A staple of Italian-American cuisine, Chicken Parmesan is a crowd-pleaser that combines crispy breaded chicken with melted mozzarella cheese and tangy marinara sauce. This recipe yields juicy and flavorful results with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 egg, beaten
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and garlic powder.
3. Dip each chicken breast in the flour mixture, then the beaten egg, and finally the breadcrumbs.
4. Heat about 1/4 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the breaded chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Transfer the fried chicken to a baking dish and top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your salad game with this classic Italian recipe that showcases the rich flavors of fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil. This Caprese salad is taken to new heights with a drizzle of sweet and tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Arrange the tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Top each tomato slice with a round of mozzarella cheese.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad, followed by the balsamic glaze (see below).
4. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Balsamic Glaze:
1. Combine 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar and 1 tsp honey in a small saucepan.
2. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the mixture thickens slightly (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh and at room temperature.
One-Pot Marinara Pasta
Savor the simplicity of a homemade pasta dish with this one-pot marinara recipe, perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients and minimal cleanup, you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
4. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Add the reserved pasta water and stir to create a creamy sauce.
7. Combine the cooked pasta with the marinara sauce. Toss to coat.
8. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ricotta Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet impressive recipe, featuring the perfect blend of creamy ricotta, nutritious spinach, and tender shells. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions until al dente.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, Parmesan, spinach, and egg. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each shell with the ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the shells and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Panzenella Bread Salad
This hearty bread salad is a staple of Tuscan cuisine, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish. Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and crispy bread come together in a flavorful and textured delight.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread (such as Ciabatta or Focaccia), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Toss bread cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
3. In a large bowl, combine toasted bread, diced tomatoes, mozzarella slices, garlic, and basil leaves (if using).
4. Drizzle with white wine vinegar and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Eggplant Parmesan
This recipe brings together tender eggplant slices, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese for a satisfying and flavorful meal. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a delicious homemade Eggplant Parmesan in no time!
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Olive oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Dip each eggplant slice in breadcrumbs, shaking off excess.
3. Fry the breaded eggplant slices in olive oil until golden brown.
4. In a baking dish, spread a layer of tomato sauce on the bottom.
5. Arrange fried eggplant slices on top of the sauce.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the eggplant.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Chicken Piccata
This recipe is a classic take on chicken piccata, with the addition of bright and citrusy lemon and aromatic garlic. The result is a dish that’s both elegant and easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the lemon juice and white wine (if using) to the skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, until slightly reduced.
6. Serve the chicken with the lemon-garlic sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Vegetable Lasagna
Roasted Vegetable Lasagna: A flavorful twist on a classic Italian dish, this recipe combines tender roasted vegetables with creamy ricotta cheese and layered pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 large zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow squash, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 lasagna noodles
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss eggplant, zucchinis, bell pepper, squash, onion, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 30 minutes or until tender.
4. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
6. Assemble the lasagna by spreading roasted vegetables, then ricotta mixture, and finally noodles.
7. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cheesy Garlic Bread
Elevate your snack game with this simple yet irresistible cheesy garlic bread recipe. Perfect as a side dish or a satisfying treat on its own, it’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf Italian-style bread (16-20 inches)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
3. Slice the bread loaf in half lengthwise.
4. Spread the garlic-butter mixture evenly onto each half of the bread.
5. Sprinkle both cups of grated cheese over the buttered bread halves.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
White Wine Garlic Mussels
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple yet impressive recipe featuring succulent mussels cooked in a rich white wine and garlic broth.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/4 cup chicken or fish stock
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse mussels under cold water, discarding any open or broken shells.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic; sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add white wine and stock to the pot, stirring to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Carefully add mussels to the pot, cover with a lid, and cook for 5-7 minutes or until shells open.
5. Remove mussels from pot, leaving liquid behind. Stir in butter until melted.
6. Serve mussels with sauce spooned over, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato and Mozzarella Panini
This classic Italian-inspired panini combines fresh tomato slices with creamy mozzarella cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy baguette. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 baguette
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each baguette slice.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a tomato slice, followed by a mozzarella cheese slice, on each baguette half.
4. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt, pepper, and chopped basil (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Pasta Primavera
Celebrate the flavors of spring with this vibrant pasta dish, featuring a medley of colorful vegetables and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (e.g., snap peas, bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. butter
– 1 tsp. dried basil
– 1 tsp. dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in butter, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta and vegetable mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Tiramisu
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this homemade tiramisu recipe, made with espresso-soaked ladyfingers and a creamy mascarpone cheese mixture.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed espresso or coffee
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
– Cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine espresso and sugar; stir until dissolved.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the espresso mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable.
3. In a separate bowl, mix mascarpone cheese, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. To assemble, start with a layer of ladyfingers in a large serving dish. Spread half the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
5. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of whipped cream on top.
6. Dust with cocoa powder and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (assembling)
Summary
Get ready to impress your friends and family with these 20 delicious easy Italian recipes! From classic dishes like Spaghetti Aglio e Olio, Tomato Basil Bruschetta, and Margherita Pizza, to creamy risottos and rich pasta dishes, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making homemade pesto pasta or stuffed bell peppers with ground beef. Or, impress with more advanced dishes like roasted vegetable lasagna or white wine garlic mussels. Whatever you choose, these easy Italian recipes are sure to become new favorites.
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