When it comes to cooking, there’s nothing quite like the allure of authentic Italian cuisine. The combination of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and rich history makes Italian food a favorite among many. But what if you’re new to the world of Italian cooking? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 quick and easy Italian recipes that are perfect for beginners.
From classic pasta dishes like Spaghetti Aglio e Olio and Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes, to delicious pizzas and soups, our list has something for everyone. Whether you’re a busy bee looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a foodie eager to try new flavors, these recipes are sure to become instant favorites.
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This traditional spaghetti recipe is a staple of Italian cuisine, combining the simplicity of olive oil and garlic with the comfort of al dente pasta. In just 15 minutes, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4-6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the garlic slices and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
3. Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic and oil mixture.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated with the garlic and oil sauce.
5. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Margherita Pizza
A timeless Italian favorite, this simple yet flavorful pizza is a staple of Neapolitan cuisine. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can recreate the authentic taste of Italy in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb (450g) pizza dough
• 12 oz (340g) San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
• 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and extra-virgin olive oil for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (6mm).
3. Place the dough on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
4. Spread the crushed tomatoes evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Arrange the mozzarella slices on top of the tomato sauce.
6. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves and a pinch of salt to taste.
7. Drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil before baking.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Caprese Salad
A classic Italian salad that’s simple yet flavorful, Caprese is a perfect side dish or light meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 large, ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin pieces
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Arrange the tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Top each tomato slice with a piece of mozzarella cheese.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad, followed by the balsamic vinegar.
4. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves over the top.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Notes:
– Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
– Let the salad sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
– You can also make this recipe ahead of time, assembling the salad just before serving.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
This mouthwatering pasta dish combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce, all wrapped up in a satisfying serving of al dente pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Toss cooked pasta with garlic butter sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Bruschetta
This classic Italian appetizer combines fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella on toasted bread for a simple yet flavorful start to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 slices of baguette, toasted
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Arrange toasted baguette slices on a baking sheet.
4. Spoon the tomato mixture over the bread, leaving a 1/2-inch border around each slice.
5. Top with sliced mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
One-Pot Marinara Pasta
A classic Italian-inspired dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, this One-Pot Marinara Pasta recipe is a weeknight winner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, penne, or rotini)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Pour in crushed tomatoes and marinara sauce. Stir to combine, then add dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the pasta mixture for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Easy Tiramisu
This classic Italian dessert is a crowd-pleaser, with its creamy mascarpone cheese mixture and rich espresso flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create an impressive tiramisu that’s sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed espresso or coffee
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the 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 together the mascarpone cheese, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract.
4. To assemble, start with a layer of ladyfingers in the bottom of a large serving dish. Top with half of the mascarpone mixture, then repeat the layers.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None required! Just refrigerate and serve chilled.
Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of creamy pesto, al dente pasta, and sweet cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium skillet, heat the pesto over medium-low heat.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they release their juices and start to soften.
4. Add the reserved pasta water to the pesto mixture and stir to combine.
5. Toss the cooked pasta with the pesto sauce, adding some of the tomato juice if desired.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Minestrone Soup
Minestrone soup is a classic Italian soup that’s perfect for any time of the year. This recipe combines vegetables, beans, and pasta in a rich tomato broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– 1 small carrot, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, zucchini, carrot, pasta, and kidney beans.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken Piccata
A classic Italian dish that’s quick to make and packed with flavor, Chicken Piccata is a staple for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Dredge the chicken in flour, shaking off excess.
3. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, garlic, white wine (if using), and chicken broth.
6. Simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes or until slightly reduced.
7. Serve the chicken breasts with the piccata sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Risotto with Mushrooms
A classic Italian dish that’s both rich and flavorful, this creamy risotto pairs perfectly with sautéed mushrooms.
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
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. If using wine, add it and cook until absorbed, about 1 minute.
6. Warm broth in a separate pot; add 1/2 cup at a time to the rice mixture, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
7. Remove from heat; stir in butter and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Cookies
Brighten up your day with these sweet and tangy Lemon Ricotta Cookies. Moist lemon curd fills tender cookies infused with the creamy richness of ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp lemon zest
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy. Add ricotta cheese and mix until smooth.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by lemon zest and juice.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden around edges.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Baked Ziti
This classic Italian-American dish combines tender ziti pasta with a rich and creamy tomato sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and oregano. Bring sauce to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ziti pasta and tomato sauce. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Panzenella Salad
Panzenella salad, a classic Italian dish from Tuscany, is a hearty and flavorful combination of toasted bread, tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and olive oil. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 slices of rustic bread (such as Ciabatta or Focaccia)
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Tear the bread into bite-sized pieces and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
3. In a large bowl, combine the toasted bread, diced tomatoes, sliced mozzarella, and chopped basil.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Focaccia Bread
Savor the rich flavor of freshly baked focaccia bread, perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add the remaining cup of flour, kneading the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a rectangle or round loaf. Dimple the surface with your fingers.
7. Sprinkle with chopped rosemary leaves if desired.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pasta Carbonara
A classic Italian dish that combines spaghetti, bacon or pancetta, eggs, and Parmesan cheese for a rich and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of pancetta or thick-cut bacon, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl with the egg mixture and toss until well combined.
5. Add the reserved pasta water to the bowl in small increments to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Add the cooked pancetta or bacon to the bowl and toss everything together.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Spaghetti cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Total preparation and cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe
A classic twist on stuffed peppers, this recipe fills bell peppers with a savory mixture of rice, ground beef, and spices for a hearty and flavorful meal.
- 4 large bell peppers (any color)
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
- Fold cooked rice into the meat mixture.
- Spoon the filling into the bell peppers, topping with shredded cheese if using.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking time: 30 minutes. Servings: 4.
Tomato Basil Soup
Experience the taste of Italy with this simple and delicious tomato basil soup recipe. A perfect blend of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy goodness, this soup is sure to warm your heart and belly.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs fresh tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic, onion, and diced tomatoes. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the chopped basil leaves and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Use an immersion blender (or transfer soup to a blender) to puree the soup to desired consistency.
7. If desired, stir in heavy cream for added richness.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Panna Cotta
Panna cotta is an Italian dessert made with sweetened cream that’s set with gelatin, flavored with vanilla and topped with a fruit sauce. This creamy treat is perfect for warm weather or any occasion when you want a light and refreshing dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon unflavored gelatin
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, sprinkle the gelatin over 1/4 cup of cold water and let it sit for 5 minutes to soften.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Remove from heat and add the softened gelatin, stirring until it’s fully dissolved.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Pour the mixture into small individual serving cups or a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes Recipe
Transform humble potatoes into a rich and savory side dish with this easy recipe. The combination of roasted potatoes, garlic, parmesan cheese, and herbs creates a delicious accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Add minced garlic and grated parmesan cheese to the bowl; toss until potatoes are well combined with the flavors.
4. Spread the potato mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
5. Roast potatoes for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping them halfway through cooking time.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover the simplicity and flavor of Italian cuisine with these 20 quick and easy recipes perfect for beginners. From classic dishes like Spaghetti Aglio e Olio and Margherita Pizza to innovative twists like Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta and Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes, there’s something for everyone. These recipes are designed to be easy to follow and require minimal ingredients, making them ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. Explore the world of Italian cooking with these 20 delicious and approachable recipes.
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