Are you looking for delicious, easy, and authentic Italian recipes to spice up your weeknights? Look no further! Italian cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors, rich aromas, and hearty portions. And the best part? Most of these dishes are incredibly simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and effort. In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouth-watering Italian recipes that will transport you straight to the Tuscan countryside without ever leaving your kitchen.
From classic pasta dishes to flavorful pizzas, savory risottos to decadent desserts, our selection of easy Italian recipes has something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these tried-and-true recipes are sure to become staples in your household. So go ahead, grab a fork, and get ready to taste the beauty of Italy!
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This recipe is a staple of Neapolitan cuisine, featuring spaghetti tossed with garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that showcases the beauty of few ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4-6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2-3 red pepper flakes
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook 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, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fragrant.
4. Add the red pepper flakes and cook for an additional minute.
5. Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the garlic mixture.
6. Toss everything together, seasoning with salt to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley or basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Margherita Pizza
Easy Margherita Pizza Recipe
This classic Italian pizza recipe is a simple yet flavorful treat that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 cup tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the bowl. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the dough and roll out into a circle or rectangle shape.
6. Spread tomato sauce over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. Top with mozzarella cheese slices and fresh basil leaves.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Risotto
This creamy mushroom risotto recipe is a comforting Italian-inspired dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening meal. With the earthy flavor of mushrooms and the richness of Parmesan cheese, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken 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)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. If using wine, add it and 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. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, remove from heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Tomato Basil Pasta
A flavorful and speedy pasta dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
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 large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in the chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the tomato-basil mixture. If the sauce seems too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
A classic Italian-American dish gets a boost of flavor with this simple recipe. Succulent shrimp are cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, perfect for serving over pasta or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- If using white wine and lemon juice, add to the skillet and simmer for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the shrimp in the garlic butter sauce, garnished with parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
One-Pan Chicken Parmesan
This recipe takes the classic Italian-American dish to new heights by cooking everything in just one pan. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip chicken pieces in egg, then coat with breadcrumb mixture.
4. Heat marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add coated chicken to the skillet; cook for 3-4 minutes or until browned.
6. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese; transfer to oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Caprese Salad
Celebrate the flavors of Italy with this classic Caprese salad, featuring fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil.
Ingredients:
- 3 large ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into thin rounds
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 20 fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Arrange tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Place mozzarella rounds on top of the tomatoes.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad, followed by a drizzle of balsamic vinegar.
4. Top with fresh basil leaves.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh.
Homemade Focaccia Bread
Get ready to experience the authentic taste of Italy with this simple and delicious homemade focaccia bread recipe. With just a few ingredients and some basic steps, you’ll be enjoying freshly baked, flavorful focaccia in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 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 the 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 2 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and shiny.
5. 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.
6. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
7. Punch down the dough and shape into a rectangle. Dimple the surface with your fingers.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Gnocchi
Brighten up your pasta game with this refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of butter, the zestiness of lemon, and the savory goodness of garlic with soft and pillowy gnocchi.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound store-bought or homemade potato gnocchi
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, zested (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions or until they float to the surface.
2. In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add lemon zest and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cooked gnocchi to combine with the lemon-garlic butter sauce.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Pesto Pasta
Quickly elevate a weeknight dinner with this classic Italian dish. Fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan come together in a rich and creamy pesto sauce that coats perfectly cooked pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1/2 cup freshly made or store-bought pesto
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (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 separate pan, combine pesto and cherry tomatoes. Heat over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce is warm and slightly thickened.
3. Drain cooked pasta and add it to the pesto mixture. Toss to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Classic Bruschetta
A classic Italian appetizer that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, bruschetta is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch slices
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the baguette into 1-inch pieces and toast until lightly browned.
3. In a bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the tomato mixture and toss to coat.
5. Brush toasted bread with olive oil and top each slice with a spoonful of the tomato mixture.
6. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if using.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
A creamy twist on the classic Italian dish, these spinach and ricotta stuffed shells are a delicious addition to any meal. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Speedy Minestrone Soup
This Italian-inspired soup is a flavorful and nutritious meal that can be ready in no time. With its mix of vegetables, beans, and pasta, Speedy Minestrone Soup is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 celery stalk, diced
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup small pasta shapes (e.g., elbow macaroni)
– 1/4 cup canned kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, pasta shapes, and kidney beans; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is cooked through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Ziti with Sausage
This hearty recipe combines the flavors of Italian sausage, rich tomato sauce, and creamy melted mozzarella cheese, all wrapped up in a satisfying baked ziti dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 oz ziti pasta
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked ziti pasta and tomato sauce mixture.
7. Transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garlic Bread with Cheese
A classic comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make garlic bread is smothered in melted cheese and sure to please.
Ingredients:
• 1 loaf French bread (14 inches)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the French bread into 1-inch thick slices.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly onto each bread slice, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese over the garlic butter.
6. Place the bread slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tomato and Mozzarella Panini
A classic Italian-inspired sandwich that combines sweet and savory flavors. Fresh tomatoes and creamy mozzarella cheese are the perfect pairing in this easy-to-make panini recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread ( Ciabatta or Focaccia work well)
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 tablespoon 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. Brush the bread slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a tomato slice on each bread slice, followed by a mozzarella cheese slice.
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. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Easy Tiramisu
Tiramisu, a classic Italian dessert, gets a simplified twist with this easy recipe. Layers of ladyfingers soaked in coffee and liqueur are topped with a creamy mascarpone mixture, resulting in a decadent treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons rum or other liqueur (optional)
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine coffee and cocoa powder. Dip each ladyfinger into the mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together mascarpone cheese, sugar, and egg yolks until smooth.
3. To assemble, create a layer of ladyfingers in a serving dish. Top with half of the mascarpone mixture. Repeat layers one more time.
4. Chill in refrigerator for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None (assembling only)
Lemon Ricotta Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are infused with the brightness of lemon zest and the creaminess of ricotta cheese, making them a perfect treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
3. Stir in lemon zest and juice, then ricotta cheese.
4. Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt; mix until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Discover the delicious world of Italian cuisine with these 18 easy and perfect recipes for weeknights. From classic Spaghetti Aglio e Olio to Simple Caprese Salad, these dishes are quick to make and packed with flavor. Try your hand at Easy Margherita Pizza or Creamy Mushroom Risotto, or go bold with Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi or Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells. And don’t forget the desserts – Easy Tiramisu and Lemon Ricotta Cookies are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. These recipes are perfect for busy weeknights and will transport you straight to Italy.
