Are you a fan of Italian cuisine and looking for some new ideas to spice up your pasta game? Look no further! Giada De Laurentiis, celebrity chef and Food Network star, has shared her most delicious pasta recipes with us. From classic spaghetti carbonara to more adventurous dishes like wild boar ragu, there’s something for everyone in this collection of 20 mouthwatering Giada pasta recipes.
Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner for two or feeding the whole family, these recipes are sure to impress. And the best part? They’re all easy to make and use ingredients that can be found at your local grocery store. So go ahead, get cooking, and buon appetito!
Giada’s Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp
Brighten up your dinner plate with Giada De Laurentiis’ zesty lemon spaghetti recipe, featuring succulent shrimp and a burst of citrus flavor. This quick and easy pasta dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/2 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 spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove shrimp from skillet; set aside. Reduce heat to medium; add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in lemon juice, butter, and reserved pasta water. Combine cooked spaghetti and sauce; toss with Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Giada’s Creamy Pesto Pasta with Peas
Fresh peas add a burst of sweetness to this classic Italian dish, while Giada’s creamy pesto sauce brings everything together. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1/2 cup fresh peas
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto sauce (see Giada’s Pesto Recipe for the full recipe)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. 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 heat. Add peas and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in pesto sauce and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with pea and pesto mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Giada’s Spicy Tomato and Basil Penne
This recipe is a flavorful twist on classic penne pasta, with the addition of spicy tomato sauce and fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, chopped basil, Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes. Bring sauce to a simmer.
5. Add reserved pasta water to the sauce and stir to combine.
6. Combine cooked penne pasta with the spicy tomato sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Giada’s Garlic Butter Linguine with Clams
This recipe combines the flavors of garlic, butter, and fresh clams to create a delicious and indulgent pasta dish. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 cups fresh clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add clams to the skillet, pouring in white wine (if using) and chicken broth. Cover and cook for 3-5 minutes or until clams are opened.
4. Add cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing with clam mixture and reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Giada’s Mushroom and Truffle Oil Fettuccine
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent and flavorful recipe that combines the earthy richness of mushrooms with the luxurious essence of truffle oil.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fettuccine
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup truffle oil
– 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 large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Stir in the truffle oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the cooked fettuccine, mushroom mixture, and reserved pasta water in a large serving bowl. Toss until the noodles are well coated.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Giada’s Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Farfalle
This recipe combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, creamy sauce, and tender chicken with farfalle pasta for a delightful Italian-inspired dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup farfalle pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook farfalle pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add sun-dried tomatoes, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream; bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked farfalle pasta with the chicken mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Giada’s Four Cheese Baked Ziti
This creamy, cheesy baked ziti is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 8 ounces ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add cooked ziti pasta to the cheese mixture and stir until well coated.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Giada’s Roasted Vegetable Orzo Salad
This hearty salad combines the comfort of roasted vegetables with the warmth of orzo and a tangy dressing, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and onions)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook the orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine the roasted vegetables, cooked orzo, crumbled feta (if using), and chopped parsley.
5. Toss with your favorite vinaigrette dressing.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Giada’s Pasta Primavera with Lemon Cream Sauce
This vibrant pasta dish is a perfect celebration of spring’s freshest flavors. With a medley of colorful vegetables, tangy lemon cream sauce, and al dente pasta, this recipe is sure to brighten up any meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (e.g., cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 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. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream and lemon juice. Pour sauce into the skillet with vegetables. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the lemon cream sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Giada’s Spaghetti Carbonara with Pancetta
This rich and creamy pasta dish is a staple of Italian cuisine. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a decadent and satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices pancetta or bacon, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1 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.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and Parmesan cheese.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl with the egg mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add the cooked pancetta to the bowl and toss everything together.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Giada’s Pappardelle with Wild Boar Ragu
A hearty, rich, and flavorful dish from Italy’s Abruzzo region, this wild boar ragu is the perfect accompaniment to Giada De Laurentiis’ beloved pappardelle pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground wild boar (or beef or pork as substitute)
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– 12 oz pappardelle pasta
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook pappardelle according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (5 minutes).
4. Add ground wild boar, red wine, beef broth, and tomato paste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until thickened.
5. Combine cooked pappardelle with ragu sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Giada’s Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
This classic Italian dish gets a delicious twist with the addition of wilted spinach and creamy ricotta cheese. The result is a rich, satisfying casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite.
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
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 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 medium bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Giada’s Lobster and Asparagus Linguine
This decadent pasta dish combines succulent lobster meat with tender asparagus and a hint of garlic, all wrapped up in a creamy linguine. Perfect for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine
– 1 lb lobster meat, diced
– 2 cups fresh asparagus spears, trimmed
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add asparagus to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Add lobster meat to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Stir in white wine (if using) and heavy cream. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 1 minute.
6. Combine cooked linguine, asparagus mixture, and reserved pasta water. Toss until well combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Giada’s Rigatoni with Sausage and Peppers
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the flavors of sweet peppers, savory sausage, and tender rigatoni pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz rigatoni pasta
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large red bell peppers, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cook rigatoni pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Giada’s Butternut Squash and Sage Ravioli
Savor the flavors of fall with Giada’s Butternut Squash and Sage Ravioli, a deliciously comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 large butternut squash (about 3 lbs each)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage leaves
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 package wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise and roast for about 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. Scoop out the flesh and blend with butter, garlic, sage, salt, and pepper until smooth.
4. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place 1 tablespoon of the squash mixture in the center of the wrapper.
5. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the ravioli.
6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ravioli for 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
7. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese and your favorite sauce.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour
Giada’s Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This refreshing pasta salad combines the flavors of fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all tied together with a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, sliced mozzarella cheese, and chopped basil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
4. Pour the balsamic glaze over the tomato mixture and toss to coat.
5. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Giada’s Shrimp Scampi with Angel Hair Pasta
This Italian-inspired dish combines succulent shrimp with garlic butter and a delicate angel hair pasta, creating a light and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 ounces angel hair pasta
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the angel hair pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in the lemon juice and reserved pasta cooking liquid.
5. Combine the cooked pasta, shrimp, and sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Giada’s Eggplant Parmesan Spaghetti
This recipe combines the flavors of eggplant parmesan with the comfort of spaghetti, creating a unique and delicious twist on a classic dish. With crispy fried eggplant, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Dip eggplant slices in flour, then eggs, and finally breadcrumbs, shaking off excess.
3. Fry eggplant slices in a large skillet with about 1/2 inch of olive oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
5. Combine tomato sauce and Parmesan cheese; heat over low heat.
6. Assemble the dish by placing cooked spaghetti on a baking sheet, topping with fried eggplant, and finishing with melted mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Giada’s Pasta alla Vodka with Prosciutto
A classic Italian dish that combines the creaminess of vodka-infused sauce with the salty sweetness of prosciutto, all wrapped up in a bed of perfectly cooked pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 slices prosciutto, thinly sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vodka-infused tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add prosciutto and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add vodka-infused tomato sauce and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir to combine and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, reserved pasta water, and sauce in the skillet. Toss to coat, adding salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with crispy prosciutto and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Giada’s Cacio e Pepe with Homemade Pappardelle
This creamy pasta dish is a staple of Italian cuisine, and when paired with homemade pappardelle, it becomes a truly unforgettable meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup (250ml) whole milk
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 4 oz (115g) Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
– Freshly ground black pepper
– Salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and eggs. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes.
4. Roll out the pasta to desired thickness.
5. Cook pappardelle according to package instructions.
6. In a large saucepan, combine olive oil, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth.
7. Add cooked pappardelle and toss with the cheese mixture until well coated.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of pasta perfection! Giada shares her top 20 delicious pasta recipes for every occasion. From classic spaghetti dishes like Lemon Spaghetti with Shrimp and Creamy Pesto Pasta with Peas, to unique fusion flavors like Mushroom and Truffle Oil Fettuccine and Lobster and Asparagus Linguine, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping special occasion meal, Giada’s pasta recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Leave a Reply