Explore the vibrant flavors of Italy with 19 recipes that promise a culinary journey without the jet lag! From pasta dishes that will make you forget about takeout to meals that have a magical way of vanishing, these recipes bring the heart of Italian cooking straight to your kitchen. Who needs a passport when you can whip up a plate of pasta that’s so good, it might just make your Nonna proud?
Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Dig into a comforting bowl of Pasta e Fagioli Soup, a classic that warms both the heart and the belly. This dish is filled with tender pasta and beans, making it a hearty choice for any meal. Its rich flavor will transport you to an Italian kitchen where families gather for hearty fare. Perfect for chilly evenings or a satisfying lunch, this soup is a must-try. Every spoonful is a reminder of why this dish has stood the test of time in Italian cuisine.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Chicken Scampi
Whip up a quick and flavorful dinner with Chicken Scampi that’s sure to impress. This dish features juicy chicken in a garlic-infused sauce that captures the essence of Italian seaside cooking. It’s a meal that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen, perfect for unexpected guests or a cozy night in. Serve it over pasta or with crusty bread, and you’ll have a feast that transports you straight to an Italian coastal town. Every bite will remind you why Italian food is so beloved.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Scampi
Zuppa Toscana Soup
Treat yourself to a bowl of Zuppa Toscana Soup, where creamy meets savory in a comforting embrace. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly nights or whenever you need a little extra warmth in your life. It’s a satisfying option that will make you feel like you’re dining in a rustic Italian kitchen. Each spoonful is packed with flavor, making it a favorite among soup lovers. This is one dish that makes every gathering feel special, regardless of the occasion.
Get the Recipe: Zuppa Toscana Soup
Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe
This dish is an invitation to gather around the table for a delicious meal. Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe is a dish that combines simplicity with comfort. This one-pan meal offers a delicious twist on traditional gnocchi, allowing for easy cleanup after your culinary adventure. The flavors of sausage and broccoli rabe come together in a way that’s both satisfying and nourishing. It’s a perfect option for busy nights when you still want something hearty and wholesome.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe
Classic Caprese Salad
Refresh your palate with Classic Caprese Salad, a dish that epitomizes Italian simplicity and elegance. It’s a celebration of fresh flavors, showcasing vibrant colors that make it visually appealing. This salad is a great way to enjoy the season’s best produce while bringing a taste of Italy to your table. Just imagine enjoying this under the Italian sun, even if you’re just in your backyard!
Get the Recipe: Classic Caprese Salad
Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup
Experience the comforting warmth of Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup, a bowl of goodness that feels like a hug from an Italian grandmother. This soup is brimming with flavor, bringing a satisfying heartiness that makes it a meal on its own. It’s a perfect remedy for chilly evenings or just when you need a bit of comfort. This dish is all about that homemade touch!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup
Tomato Bruschetta
Upgrade your appetizer game with Tomato Bruschetta, a delicious treat that’s perfect for any gathering. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that showcases the beauty of fresh ingredients. Perfect as a starter or a light snack, this bruschetta is sure to impress your guests. The crunchy bread paired with vibrant toppings makes for a colorful addition to your table. It’s a quick way to bring the taste of Italy to your next get-together.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta
Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce
Experience a burst of flavor with Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce, a dish that combines creamy and fresh in every bite. This recipe is all about making gnocchi shine, bringing a refreshing twist to a classic favorite. It’s an excellent choice for those nights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it as a main course or a side, and enjoy the flavors that transport you to Italy.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce
Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers
Enjoy a plate of Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers that captures the spirit of family gatherings around the dinner table. This recipe features savory sausage enveloped in vibrant peppers, bringing bold flavors that can only be found in Italian cuisine. Perfect for sharing, it’s a reminder that good food is meant to be enjoyed together. Let the aroma whisk you away to Little Italy!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers
Authentic Bolognese Sauce
Indulge in the rich, hearty flavors of Authentic Bolognese Sauce, a staple in Italian cooking that promises satisfaction. This sauce is perfect for pairing with your favorite pasta, transforming a simple meal into something extraordinary. Each pot is filled with a depth of flavor that develops over time, making it worth the wait. It’s a go-to option for family dinners or special occasions when comfort food is on the menu. This sauce has a way of bringing everyone together around the table.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Bolognese Sauce
Polenta with Mascarpone
Discover the creamy goodness of Polenta with Mascarpone, a dish that redefines comfort food. This recipe combines the velvety texture of polenta with the richness of mascarpone for a satisfying side or main course. It’s a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of meats or vegetables. Get ready to enjoy a dish that feels both rustic and refined, embodying the best of Italian cuisine.
Get the Recipe: Polenta with Mascarpone
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka
Grab your favorite glass of wine; this dish pairs perfectly with a relaxed evening. Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka is an invitation to a cozy Italian dinner. This creamy dish balances a rich sauce with just the right amount of warmth, making it perfect for any occasion. Picture yourself twirling rigatoni on your fork while imagining the bustling streets of Rome.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka
Oven Roasted Tomato Soup
Warm up with Oven Roasted Tomato Soup, where the flavors of ripe tomatoes come to life. This soup is a vibrant reminder of summer, making it a perfect dish for any time of year. The roasting process enhances the tomatoes’ natural sweetness, creating a comforting blend that’s hard to resist. Serve it with a slice of your favorite bread for a complete meal. It’s the kind of soup that makes any day feel a bit brighter.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Tomato Soup
Ham & Asparagus Pizza
Take a bite out of Ham & Asparagus Pizza, a creative spin on traditional pizza that’s sure to surprise your guests. This dish combines savory ham with fresh asparagus, resulting in a delicious balance of flavors. Perfect for a casual dinner or a festive gathering, it adds a unique touch to pizza night. Enjoy it with friends and family, and watch it disappear in no time!
Get the Recipe: Ham & Asparagus Pizza
Pesto Orzo Salad
Refresh your meal lineup with Pesto Orzo Salad, a vibrant dish that captures the essence of Italian cooking. This salad is packed with flavor and offers a delicious twist on traditional pasta salads. It’s a great option for picnics or as a side for any main dish, making it a versatile addition to your culinary menu. Perfect for those who crave Italian flavors without the fuss!
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad
Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken
Dig into a comforting bowl of Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken, where wholesome ingredients come together in a delicious blend. This soup offers a hearty option that’s perfect for busy nights when you still want something nutritious. The combination of tortellini, kale, and tender chicken provides a satisfying meal that feels like a warm embrace. Enjoy the flavors of Italy right at your dining table!
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken
Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette
Transform your salads with Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette, a dressing that adds a rich twist to any dish. This vinaigrette is the perfect balance of tangy and creamy, ensuring every salad feels like a gourmet experience. It’s an easy way to bring Italian flair to your greens, making every meal feel special. Use it to dress your favorite salads or as a dip for fresh veggies. It’s a little jar of magic that will upgrade your salads in the best way possible!
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette
Tortellini Soup with Sausage
Savor the hearty flavors of Tortellini Soup with Sausage, a delicious dish that combines two favorites in one bowl. This comforting soup features tender tortellini nestled among savory sausage, creating a satisfying meal that warms the soul. It’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, offering a taste of Italy in every spoonful. This dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection, especially when the weather turns chilly.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup with Sausage
Chicken Cacciatore
Step into the world of rustic Italian cooking with Chicken Cacciatore that brings together tender chicken and a robust sauce. This dish is simmered to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Think of the aroma wafting through your kitchen, drawing everyone in like a moth to a flame. It’s the kind of meal that feels special but is easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of sauce.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cacciatore