As a food lover, there’s something special about Italian cuisine. The rich flavors, aromas, and textures all come together to create dishes that are both comforting and exciting. But cooking Italian food can be intimidating, especially if you’re new to the kitchen or short on time. That’s why we’ve put together this collection of 20 easy Italian recipes perfect for beginners.
From classic pasta dishes to savory pizzas and decadent desserts, these recipes will guide you through the process of creating mouthwatering Italian meals that are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these simple yet flavorful recipes will help you explore the world of Italian cuisine with ease.
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This classic Italian recipe is a staple of Roman cuisine, made with just a few simple ingredients. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3-4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and red pepper flakes 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.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add the thinly sliced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown and fragrant.
4. Remove the garlic from the skillet with a slotted spoon and discard (or reserve for another use).
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together to combine.
6. Season with salt, red pepper flakes, and chopped parsley if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Margherita Pizza
This classic Italian recipe is a staple for a reason – simplicity, flavor, and ease! With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious homemade pizza that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups tomato sauce
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Arrange the mozzarella slices on top of the sauce.
5. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and satisfying recipe that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan, and creamy goodness. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir until combined with garlic. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with sauce. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Italian Pepper and Onion Frittata
Start your day with a flavorful and filling breakfast or brunch with this Italian-inspired frittata. The sweetness of the peppers and onions pairs perfectly with the savory eggs.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until tender.
4. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk together with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the cooked onion and peppers in the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, then transfer the skillet to the oven.
7. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the frittata is golden brown.
8. Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Simple Tomato Basil Bruschetta
A classic Italian appetizer that’s easy to make and packed with flavor! This recipe is perfect for a quick gathering or as a light meal.
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
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, and minced garlic.
3. Brush baguette slices with olive oil and toast for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Spoon the tomato-basil mixture onto toasted bread rounds, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Quick Marinara Sauce
In just a few minutes, you can have a delicious and flavorful marinara sauce to elevate your pasta dishes or pizza nights. This quick recipe uses simple ingredients and minimal cooking time to deliver a rich and tangy flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and use immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
One-Pot Italian Sausage Pasta
This hearty pasta dish is a weeknight staple, packed with flavorful Italian sausage, tender vegetables, and rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner, this one-pot wonder requires minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, rigatoni)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add sausage; cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove sausage from pot; set aside. Add onion and garlic to pot; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add bell pepper, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add pasta to pot; stir to coat with sauce. Cook, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
5. Return sausage to pot; stir to combine. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
No-Bake Ricotta Tiramisu
Looking for a dessert that’s as delicious as it is easy to make? This no-bake ricotta tiramisu recipe is the perfect solution. With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a creamy, coffee-infused delight in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder (or strong brewed coffee)
– 6-8 ladyfingers, divided
– Whipped cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta, mascarpone, and sugar. Mix until smooth.
2. Add cocoa powder and espresso powder; mix well.
3. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture (about 30 seconds per side). They should be soft but still retain some structure.
4. Create layers in a serving dish by spreading half of the ricotta mixture, followed by half of the ladyfingers. Repeat.
5. Chill for at least 3 hours or overnight. Top with whipped cream, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This no-bake dessert is ready to serve.
Easy Chicken Piccata
Easy Chicken Piccata Recipe
This classic Italian-inspired dish is a staple for a reason – its simplicity and flavor combination are hard to beat! With just a few ingredients and some quick cooking, you’ll be enjoying tender chicken breasts smothered in a rich and tangy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Season the chicken breasts with flour, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce the heat to medium and add the garlic, white wine (if using), and chicken broth. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
4. Serve the chicken breasts with the sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
5-Ingredient Caprese Salad
A classic Italian salad that’s as simple as it gets! This recipe requires just a few ingredients to create a flavorful and visually appealing dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3 large, ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
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 in a circular motion.
4. Drizzle the balsamic vinegar in a zigzag pattern, creating a visually appealing design.
5. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves on top (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required – just assemble and serve!
Garlic Butter Mushroom Risotto
This rich and comforting risotto dish combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the pungency of garlic and the richness of butter. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the broth in a separate pot.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice and stir to combine with mushroom mixture.
5. If using wine, add it to the rice mixture and cook until absorbed.
6. Gradually add warmed broth, stirring constantly, until rice is cooked and creamy (about 20-25 minutes).
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 30-35 minutes
Speedy Pesto Pasta
Get a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in no time with this speedy pesto pasta recipe! With just a few simple ingredients and quick cooking, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful dish in under 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade pesto
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup sliced fresh mozzarella cheese
– 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 a medium skillet, combine pesto and cherry tomatoes. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warm and fragrant.
3. Add sliced mozzarella cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and smooth.
4. Drain cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the pesto mixture. Toss until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Italian Stuffed Bell Peppers
A classic Italian-inspired dish that’s both flavorful and nutritious! This recipe fills bell peppers with a savory mixture of rice, tomatoes, and cheese, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 small onion, finely chopped (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 bowl, combine cooked rice, diced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and sprinkle with chopped onion (if using).
6. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Oven-Baked Meatballs with Marinara
Elevate your dinner game with this simple recipe for oven-baked meatballs smothered in a rich marinara sauce. Perfect for weeknight meals or as an appetizer, these flavorful bites are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jar marinara sauce (about 2 cups)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While meatballs are baking, heat marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
6. Once meatballs are done, add them to the marinara sauce and simmer for 5-10 minutes to coat.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Whipped Ricotta Crostini
Elevate your gathering with these simple yet impressive Whipped Ricotta Crostini!
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) container whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)
– Baguette slices or crostini
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, honey, and salt. Whip with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
2. Arrange the baguette slices on a serving platter or individual plates.
3. Dollop the whipped ricotta mixture onto each crostini slice, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Garnish with chopped fresh mint leaves, if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (all you need to do is whip and assemble!)
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi
This classic Italian-American dish is a perfect representation of simplicity and flavor. With just a few ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering shrimp scampi that’s sure to please any crowd.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add shrimp, lemon juice, and olive oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
6. Serve immediately over linguine or fettuccine pasta.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
One-Pan Italian Chicken and Potatoes
This hearty one-pan dish is a perfect weeknight solution: tender chicken, crispy potatoes, and flavorful sauce all cooked to perfection in just one pan. With minimal prep and cleanup, you’ll be enjoying a satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Italian-style tomato sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan.
4. Add potatoes, onion, and garlic; cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add tomato sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return chicken to the pan and stir to coat with sauce.
7. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are tender and chicken cooked through.
8. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Quick Cannellini Bean Soup
This hearty and comforting soup is made with cannellini beans, aromatic vegetables, and flavorful chicken broth, making it a perfect meal for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese and crusty bread for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add the cannellini beans and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let the soup cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese and crusty bread if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Homemade Gnocchi
Make delicious homemade gnocchi with just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort! This recipe yields soft, pillowy dumplings that are perfect for topping with your favorite sauces or soups.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup semolina flour
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the chopped potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let cool.
2. Mash the cooled potatoes in a large bowl using a fork or potato masher.
3. Add the all-purpose flour, semolina flour, and egg to the mashed potatoes. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for about 5 minutes, until smooth and pliable.
5. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope.
6. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces to form the gnocchi.
7. Cook the gnocchi in boiling salted water for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
No-Yeast Focaccia Bread
Get ready to enjoy a deliciously soft and flavorful Italian-inspired flatbread without the need for yeast! This no-yeast focaccia bread recipe is perfect for those short on time or looking for a quick weeknight dinner accompaniment.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon white vinegar
– Optional: rosemary, sea salt, and/or coarse black pepper for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, olive oil, and salt until well combined.
3. Gradually add warm water and vinegar, stirring until a sticky dough forms.
4. Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
5. Transfer dough to the prepared baking sheet, shaping into desired form (e.g., rectangle or circle).
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the flavors of Italy with these easy and delicious recipes perfect for beginners! From classic dishes like Spaghetti Aglio e Olio and Easy Margherita Pizza, to comforting favorites like Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta and One-Pot Italian Sausage Pasta, there’s something for everyone. Plus, try your hand at sweet treats like No-Bake Ricotta Tiramisu and Whipped Ricotta Crostini. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dessert, these 20 recipes are sure to become new favorites.
