When it comes to cuisine, Italy is a force to be reckoned with. With its rich history and cultural heritage, it’s no wonder that Italian food has become a staple around the world. From pasta dishes like Spaghetti Carbonara and Fettuccine Alfredo to classic pizzas like Margherita Pizza, Italian cuisine has something for everyone. But what makes these recipes truly authentic? Is it the ingredients, the techniques, or the love and care put into each dish? In this article, we’ll explore 20 deliciously traditional Italian recipes that are sure to transport your taste buds to la dolce vita (the sweet life). Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these classic dishes will guide you in creating mouth-watering meals that are sure to impress.
Spaghetti Carbonara
This classic Italian recipe combines spaghetti, bacon or pancetta, eggs, and Parmesan cheese to create a decadent and satisfying dish. With its creamy sauce and savory flavors, Spaghetti Carbonara is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of pancetta or bacon
– 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 and 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 eggs and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl with the egg mixture and toss until well coated. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Add the cooked pancetta or bacon to the bowl and toss everything together.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Margherita Pizza
This iconic Italian dish requires just a few simple ingredients, but yields a flavorful and visually stunning pizza that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb (450g) pizza dough
– 2 cups (400ml) San Marzano tomatoes, crushed
– 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra-virgin olive oil for brushing
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). Place on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
3. Spread the crushed tomatoes evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with sliced mozzarella cheese and chopped basil leaves.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Brush the crust with a little olive oil.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Risotto alla Milanese
This creamy risotto dish from Milan is a staple of Italian cuisine, typically served with ossobuco (braised veal shanks). Our recipe simplifies the process while maintaining the rich flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. If using wine, add it and stir until absorbed.
4. Warm broth in separate pot. Add 1/2 cup warmed broth to rice mixture; stir until absorbed.
5. Repeat step 4 until rice is cooked and creamy (about 20-25 minutes).
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Lasagna Bolognese
A classic Italian dish that combines rich flavors with tender pasta and a hearty meat sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
5. Simmer sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese and mozzarella cheese.
7. Assemble lasagna by spreading meat sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by noodles, then ricotta mixture, and finally shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Osso Buco
Classic Osso Buco Recipe
Osso buco, a hearty Italian braised veal shank dish, is perfect for special occasions or cozy weeknights. This recipe yields tender and flavorful osso buco with a rich tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal shanks (about 1 1/2 pounds)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup white wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. Season veal shanks with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear veal shanks until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add wine, broth, crushed tomatoes, carrots, celery, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
6. Return veal shanks to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until veal is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Tiramisu
A classic Italian dessert, Tiramisu is a creamy, coffee-infused treat that’s sure to delight. This recipe yields a rich and decadent dessert perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream, whipped
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the coffee and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable but not too wet.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the mascarpone cheese, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Beat until smooth and creamy.
4. To assemble the Tiramisu, start with a layer of ladyfingers in the bottom of a serving dish. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
5. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of whipped cream on top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None ( Assembly and chilling only)
Panna Cotta
Panna cotta is an Italian dessert made with sweetened cream that’s set with gelatin, resulting in a creamy and smooth texture. This simple recipe yields a delicious and elegant dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 envelope (0.25 oz) unflavored gelatin
– 1 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 softened gelatin. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is hot but not boiling.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool slightly.
4. Pour the mixture into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until set.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with your choice of fruit, nuts, or caramel sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Fettuccine Alfredo
Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe
A classic Italian dish that combines rich flavors with a velvety sauce. This recipe is a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fettuccine pasta
– 6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) unsalted butter
– 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for 1 minute, forming a roux.
3. Gradually add the heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked fettuccine pasta to the saucepan, tossing to combine. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Minestrone Soup
This classic Italian soup is a comforting blend of vegetables, beans, and pasta in a rich tomato broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 3 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, carrots, celery, and green beans)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (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 mixed vegetables; cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, pasta, vegetable broth, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chicken Piccata
This recipe offers a flavorful and elegant take on the classic Italian dish, Chicken Piccata. With its crispy exterior and tender interior, this dish is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner.
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)
– 1/4 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. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add the floured chicken to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and add white wine (if using) and chicken broth. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce sauce.
6. Serve the chicken hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bruschetta
Elevate your gathering with this classic Italian appetizer that combines the flavors of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and crusty bread. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick snack or as an opener for your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 slices of baguette, toasted
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Arrange the toasted baguette slices on a baking sheet.
4. Spoon the tomato mixture over the bread slices, leaving a small border around each slice.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top (if using).
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Caprese Salad
This classic Italian salad is a perfect combination of flavors and textures, featuring fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil. With just a few ingredients, you can create a stunning side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 3 large 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
– 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 olive oil over the salad, followed by balsamic vinegar.
4. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves evenly over the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Total time: 10 minutes
Gnocchi with Sage Butter
Experience the comforting combination of pillowy gnocchi and rich sage butter, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked potato, mashed
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt, to taste
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine mashed potato, flour, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
3. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, then cut into 1-inch pieces to form gnocchi.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gnocchi in batches, about 30 seconds per batch, until they float to the surface.
5. In a small saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add chopped sage and cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
6. Serve cooked gnocchi with the warm sage butter spooned over top. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Genovese
Pesto Genovese is a classic Italian sauce originating from the city of Genoa. This vibrant green sauce is made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, perfectly capturing the flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– 1/2 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the basil leaves and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine the garlic, pine nuts, and a pinch of salt. Process until smooth.
3. Add the basil leaves and process until well combined and slightly chopped.
4. Gradually add the Parmesan cheese and olive oil while processing.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Cooking Time: None required! This sauce is best served fresh.
Cannoli
Experience the sweet and crispy delight of Sicilian-style cannoli with this simple recipe. These shell-shaped pastries are filled with a creamy ricotta mixture, perfect for satisfying your Italian dessert cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable shortening
– Vinegar, for frying
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Ricotta filling (see below)
– Candied fruit and chocolate chips, for garnish (optional)
Ricotta Filling:
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add lard or shortening and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to a thin sheet.
5. Cut into tubes and fry for 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Drain excess oil and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
7. Fill with ricotta mixture and garnish with candied fruit and chocolate chips (if using).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Parmigiana di Melanzane
This classic Italian recipe transforms tender eggplant slices into a rich, flavorful casserole smothered in melted mozzarella and tangy tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each eggplant slice in the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the coated eggplant slices until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Repeat with remaining slices.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of tomato sauce. Arrange fried eggplant slices on top.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the eggplant. Top with mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Ravioli with Ricotta and Spinach
This classic Italian dish is a staple for a reason – the combination of creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and delicate pasta is pure comfort food. With this simple recipe, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of fresh ravioli
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook the ravioli according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and chopped spinach. Mix well to combine.
3. Add the beaten egg to the ricotta mixture and stir until smooth.
4. Serve the cooked ravioli with the creamy spinach ricotta mixture spooned over the top. Season with salt to taste.
5. Drizzle with cooking oil or butter for added richness.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Panettone
Panettone is a classic Italian bread that’s sweet, buttery, and infused with the flavors of candied fruits and nuts. This recipe yields a delicious and tender loaf perfect for serving during the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup stale white wine (or water)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 cup candied orange peel, chopped
– 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts or almonds
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and yeast.
2. Add wine (or water), melted butter, eggs, and mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
6. Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oblong loaf.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Saltimbocca alla Romana
Saltimbocca alla Romana is a beloved Italian recipe that combines the tender flavors of veal, prosciutto, and sage. This classic dish originates from Rome, where it’s often served with a rich tomato sauce and pasta.
Ingredients:
– 4 veal cutlets (about 1/8 inch thick)
– 4 slices of prosciutto
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 4 sprigs of fresh sage
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– White wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the veal cutlets with salt and black pepper.
2. Top each cutlet with a slice of prosciutto, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Place a sprig of sage on top of the prosciutto.
4. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the veal cutlets and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove the veal from the skillet and keep warm. If desired, add white wine to the skillet and simmer for an additional minute.
6. Serve the Saltimbocca alla Romana hot, with your choice of pasta and tomato sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Affogato
Experience the perfect Italian dessert with this classic Affogato recipe. Rich espresso and creamy vanilla ice cream come together for a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 2 scoops of high-quality vanilla ice cream
– 1 shot of strong espresso (about 1 oz)
– Optional: whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Place the scoop(s) of vanilla ice cream in a glass or cup.
2. Pour the shot of espresso directly over the ice cream.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!
4. If desired, top with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or chopped nuts.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required)
Summary
Get ready to transport your taste buds to Italy with these 20 authentic and deliciously traditional Italian recipes! From classic Spaghetti Carbonara and Margherita Pizza, to hearty Risotto alla Milanese and Lasagna Bolognese, this collection has something for everyone. Explore the rich flavors of Osso Buco, indulge in creamy Tiramisu and Panna Cotta, or try your hand at making tender Gnocchi with Sage Butter. With a range of dishes from appetizers to desserts, including Minestrone Soup, Chicken Piccata, and Cannoli, there’s no excuse not to get cooking!