When we talk about Italian cuisine, there’s a whole world beyond just pizza and pasta that deserves a shout-out. These 15 traditional dishes are like hidden treasures, each with a story and place in Italian culture. It’s like flipping through an old family album, where every recipe is a snapshot of history, tradition, and heartfelt gatherings.
Garlic Shrimp Scampi
If you’re in the mood for seafood with an Italian twist, look no further. Garlic Shrimp Scampi combines the richness of garlic with the freshness of shrimp in a light yet satisfying dish. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at your next gathering.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Shrimp Scampi
Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Imagine a bowl of comfort that warms you up from the inside out. Chicken Gnocchi Soup does just that, blending tender chicken pieces with soft gnocchi in a creamy broth. It’s like a hug in a bowl, ideal for chilly nights or when you need a boost of coziness.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Shrimp Scampi Pizza
Who says you have to choose between seafood and pizza? Shrimp Scampi Pizza offers the best of both worlds, with juicy shrimp and a garlicky base atop a crispy crust. It’s an innovative take on traditional pizza that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi Pizza
Italian Chicken
For those nights when you want something simple yet flavorful, Italian Chicken is your go-to. This dish emphasizes the natural flavors of chicken with a touch of Italian herbs, creating a straightforward and delicious meal. Pair it with your favorite side for a complete, satisfying dinner.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chicken
Birria Pizza
Fusion dishes often bring something surprisingly delightful to the table, and Birria Pizza is no exception. This unique combination takes the succulent flavors of birria and spreads them over pizza dough for an unexpected twist. It’s a must-try for adventurous eaters and flavor chasers alike.
Get the Recipe: Birria Pizza
Pesto Orzo Salad
Light, refreshing, and packed with flavor, Pesto Orzo Salad is a side dish that often steals the show. With its vibrant colors and enticing pesto aroma, it’s a great addition to any meal or a stand-alone dish for a light lunch. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, pairing well with various mains.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad
Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette
Elevate your salad game with Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette, a dressing that balances tangy and creamy like no other. It’s the perfect way to add flavor to any greens, turning even the simplest salad into a masterpiece. It’s not just for salads, but it’s also a great marinade for meats.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette
Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken
On days when the weather calls for something soul-warming, Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken answers that call. It combines hearty tortellini, nutrient-rich kale, and savory chicken in a flavorful and comforting broth. A bowl of this soup satisfies your hunger and soothes your soul.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken
Ham & Asparagus Pizza
Take a break from the usual pizza toppings with Ham & Asparagus Pizza. This creation marries the smokiness of ham with the crispness of asparagus for a refreshingly different taste. It’s a great way to incorporate some veggies into your meal in a fun and tasty manner.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Asparagus Pizza
Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone
Sometimes, simplicity shines the brightest, as is the case with Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone. This side dish elevates asparagus with the creamy, tangy touch of mascarpone, resulting in flavors that complement without overpowering. It’s elegant, easy to make, and sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone
Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone
For a decadent take on a classic side, Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone is a clear winner. The mascarpone adds a luxurious richness to the spinach, making this dish a comforting indulgence. It pairs well with both meat and pasta, adding a creamy texture and rich flavor to any dinner plate.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone
Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes
When craving something light yet fulfilling, Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes is a perfect choice. The creamy ricotta and fresh tomatoes come together in a harmonious dish that’s as simple as delicious. It’s proof that sometimes, the simplest dishes are the most memorable.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes
Tortellini Soup with Sausage
Adding a bit of heartiness to your soup, Tortellini Soup with Sausage blends plump tortellini and savory sausage in a comforting broth. It’s a satisfying meal that combines all the flavors of a home-cooked dinner in one pot. Perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or enjoying leftovers the next day.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup with Sausage
Tomato Bruschetta Board
Interactive and flavorful, Tomato Bruschetta Board lets everyone build their perfect bite. It’s a fun way to start a meal, with crisp bread, juicy tomatoes, and various toppings for mixing and matching. Not only does it taste great, but it also brings everyone together around the table.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta Board
Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta
Embrace the bold flavors of Sausage & Broccoli rabbit pasta, a dish where slightly bitter broccoli rabe meets spicy sausage in a delightful dance. It’s a meal that packs a punch and satisfies the craving for something with some edge. It’s ideal for those evenings when you’re looking for a pasta dish that’s far from ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta