Italian food is known for being delicious and filling. Italians take their meals very seriously. Lunch is the most important meal of the day. You’ll start with a selection of cheeses. Your antipasti might also consist of olives and salad. Then, you’ll jump into the main course. While you may not be able to get the whole Italian experience in your dining room, you can at least try some of these traditional Italian recipes.
1. Caprese Salad
If it’s summertime and you’re eating vegetarian, you might want to start with a tomato salad. Caprese salads are a very popular antipasto. Generally, it is a combination of tomato slices and mozzarella topped with fresh pesto. There are also plenty of twists that can give you a more modern flavor.
2. Panzanella
Another summertime favorite is this bread salad. While there is not a steadfast recipe, you must include bread and tomatoes for it to be Panzanella. It tastes best when paired with a glass of wine and eaten outside under the summer sun.
3. Bruschetta
Bruschetta is another familiar antipasto consisting of toasted bread topped with veggies, garlic, and tomatoes. You can use a variety of crusty bread and include your selection of veggies, as long as you remember the garlic and tomatoes. Whatever your toppings are, your creation will still be recognized as a classic Italian appetizer.
4. Focaccia Bread
Pretty much everyone is familiar with focaccia bread. Top the dough with onions, cheese, basil, tomatoes, and olives, and bake to make it.
5. Pasta Carbonara
Pasta carbonara is a simple dish with fascinating origins. It was prevalent among coal miners, hence the name carbonara. Initially, it was made with pig cheek out of cost necessity, but today it is made with bacon.
6. Margherita Pizza
While pizza is slightly different in America than in Italy, it still has Italian roots. You can even make an authentic Italian pizza at home. Margherita pizza is the most basic and traditional recipe you can use. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make. All you need to do is top some dough with tomatoes, basil, and cheese, then bake.
7. Mushroom Risotto
Think about it: mushrooms and risotto in buttery goodness. Believe it or not, this is surprisingly healthy. It offers protein and antioxidants and can help fight cancer. On top of that, it’s delicious, quick, and easy to make. Mushroom risotto could be a great option if you’ve got a hungry family descending on your kitchen.
8. Pasta Con Pomodoro E Basilico
The king of all Italian recipes, this is the benchmark of who is a good cook. It is also one of the oldest and more original pasta recipes. (ghgossip.com) Plus, it is easy and can be made in under half an hour. That makes it great for busy weekday nights or if you’re feeling lazy on the weekends. You can pair it with red wine for a traditional flavor.
Try some of these recipes when you want an authentic Italian flavor. They will wow your friends and family and leave you feeling satisfied.
