Make Every Dinner A Celebration With 29 Italian Recipes

Dinner shouldn’t be a routine—it should be something to look forward to. With 29 Italian favorites, there’s always something new to bring to the table. Whether it’s a slow Sunday meal or a quick weeknight fix, these dishes turn any meal into a reason to sit a little longer.

A pot filled with penne pasta in a tomato sauce, topped with grated cheese, basil leaves, and herbs.
Pasta alla Norma. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Caprese Appetizer

Image shows an overhead shot of Caprese Bites on a wooden board.
Caprese Appetizer. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Who says simple can’t be special? Picture biting into a juicy tomato paired perfectly with fresh mozzarella. That’s exactly what you get with Caprese Appetizer, a classic Italian starter that brings freshness to your dinner table. Its straightforward preparation lets every flavor shine, making your meal start on a high note.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer

Pasta Carbonara

A close-up image of spaghetti carbonara topped with grated cheese and freshly ground black pepper.
Pasta Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Imagine a dish that wraps comfort and tradition in one. Pasta Carbonara does just that, with its creamy texture and hearty appeal. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Plus, it’s a testament to the magic that happens when you mix simple ingredients together.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Carbonara

Mushroom Pizza

Close-up of a pizza topped with arugula, mushrooms, cheese, and herbs on a parchment paper.
Mushroom Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Who doesn’t love a good pizza night? Mushroom Pizza takes this beloved classic and gives it an earthy twist with the addition of mushrooms. It’s a perfect option for those evenings when only something crispy, cheesy, and a bit umami will do. Sharing this with friends or family? Expect it to disappear quickly.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pizza

Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta

A plate of spaghetti topped with grilled chicken strips and garnished with chopped parsley, bell peppers, and shredded cheese.
Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Ever wished you could recreate one of your favorite restaurant dishes at home? Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta is your ticket to doing just that. This dish combines tender chicken with a garlicky, buttery sauce that clings to the pasta in the best way. It’s a comfort dish that’s bound to become a repeat request.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta

Garlic Aioli

Garlic aioli in a mixing bowl with a spoon in it, garlic cloves, and dill around it.
Garlic Aioli. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sometimes, it’s the small touches that enhance a meal from good to unforgettable. Garlic Aioli is one such gem, a rich and creamy sauce that adds a punch of flavor to sandwiches, veggies, or pretty much anything you like. Making it at home is simpler than you might think, and it gives you the power to adjust the garlic level to your taste.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Aioli

Antipasto Salad

A bowl of salad with mixed greens, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers.
Antipasto Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

In need of a salad that’s anything but boring? Antipasto Salad brings together a vibrant mix of ingredients that are as colorful as they are tasty. It’s not just a salad; it’s a bold statement on your dinner table, offering a little something for everyone.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Best Lemon Pasta

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese.
Best Lemon Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Now, here’s a twist on pasta that brightens up the whole meal. Best Lemon Pasta is beautifully tangy and refreshingly light, making it a perfect choice for those nights when heavy sauces just won’t do. It’s proof that sometimes, less is more, and a few quality ingredients can create something truly memorable.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

Garlic Bread

Slices of garlic bread topped with chopped parsley and sea salt sit enticingly on a wooden board, accompanied by a small bowl of salt and fresh cloves of garlic.
Garlic Bread. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Is any Italian meal complete without Garlic Bread? This dish is synonymous with comfort, its crispy edges and soft interior soaked with a flavorful mix. It’s so good, that it often steals the show, becoming more than just an accompaniment. Don’t be surprised if this ends up being the most requested item in your cooking repertoire.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

Easy Caprese Salad

Caprese salad in a serving bowl, with tomatoes, oil and balsamic glaze nearby.
Easy Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Back to basics, Easy Caprese Salad reminds us why simple ingredients often lead to the most remarkable flavors. It captures the essence of Italian cuisine, focusing on the freshness and quality of each element. Plus, it pairs well with just about everything.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad

Tiramisu

A slice of tiramisu is being lifted from the dish, showcasing layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone, topped with cocoa powder.
Tiramisu. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Ending your meal on a sweet note is crucial, and what better way to do that than with Tiramisu? This dessert is a heavenly layering of coffee-soaked biscuits and a rich, creamy mascarpone mixture. It’s a beloved classic for a reason, offering a subtle balance of flavors that’s both indulgent and uplifting.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu

Artichoke Pizza

A pizza with artichokes, tomatoes and spinach.
Artichoke Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For those who love to venture beyond the usual, Artichoke Pizza is a beautiful way to explore unique toppings. It’s ideal for moments when you’re feeling adventurous and want to serve something out of the ordinary. With this pizza, expect the unexpected and enjoy every slice.
Get the Recipe: Artichoke Pizza

Italian Pasta with Salami

A vibrant pasta salad with fusilli, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, black olives, and diced salami in a clear bowl.
Italian Pasta with Salami. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

There’s something about the combination of pasta and salami that just works. Italian Pasta with Salami is a hearty dish that celebrates this pairing, enveloping every mouthful with rich, savory flavors. It’s the perfect meal for when you need something rewarding, yet easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Italian Dressing

A jar with Italian dressing with it and a teaspoon resting in it.
Italian Dressing. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Italian Dressing is your bottle of magic that goes beyond the salad, doubling as a marinate or a drizzle for that extra oomph. It’s fresh, it’s lively, and it plays well with pretty much any garden friend you toss it with. You might even catch yourself using it as a dip, because why not?
Get the Recipe: Italian Dressing

Cheese Ravioli

A white plate of ravioli topped with black pepper, grated cheese, and sage leaves.
Cheese Ravioli. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When Cheese Ravioli lands on your plate, expect a hush at the table as all dig into their own cheesy cloud nine. It’s comfort wrapped in delicate dough, a classic that never fails to remind you why it’s a favorite. And it’s versatile, playing nice with any sauce you choose to pair it with.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ravioli

Neapolitan Pizza

A quick and easy pizza recipe on a white plate.
Neapolitan Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If authenticity is what you’re after, Neapolitan Pizza is as real as it gets. This pizza is all about minimalism and tradition, with a focus on high-quality ingredients. The charred, blistered crust is a hallmark, achieved only through intense heat, making each slice a texture adventure.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza

Homemade Lasagna

Close-up of a delicious slice of lasagna, showcasing layers of pasta, ground meat, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and garnished with chopped basil.
Homemade Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Few dishes say “hearty meal” quite like Homemade Lasagna. Layer upon layer of cheesy, saucy goodness, this dish is a labor of love that’s always worth the effort. This lasagna is a warm embrace in the form of food, promising satisfaction with every layer.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

Garlic Knots

Close-up view of freshly baked garlic knots with parsley and seasoning, resting on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Garlic Knots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For something you can grab with your hands, look no further than Garlic Knots. They’re small, garlicky twists of dough that are impossible to eat just one of. Consider them the side dish you didn’t know you needed, until now. It’s like they’re there to make sure everyone has a smile at the table.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Caprese Pesto Tarts

Fresh cherry tomatoes and herbs served in crispy puff pastry cups on a wooden surface.
Caprese Pesto Tarts. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you’re in the mood for something a bit elegant yet easy, Caprese Pesto Tarts are the answer. These tarts are a beautiful blend of familiar Caprese salad flavors, enhanced by the rich taste of pesto. They’re as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate, perfect for when you want to add a touch of sophistication to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts

Cacio e Pepe

Close-up of cooked spaghetti with cracked black pepper and a fork partially visible.
Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

There’s magic in simplicity, and Cacio e Pepe proves that point beautifully. This dish relies on just a few ingredients to deliver a burst of flavors that are both sharp and smooth. It’s all about technique, turning ordinary pasta into something extraordinarily comforting. For a meal that feels like a warm hug, look no further.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Italian Sliders

Close-up of sesame seed-topped sliders filled with sliced meat and melted cheese.
Italian Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For a handheld twist on Italian flavors, Italian Sliders pack a punch. They’re small but mighty with every bite loaded with tastiness. Whether it’s game day or a casual get-together, these mouth-sized marvels are a guaranteed hit. Plus, they offer the fun of a tiny sandwich but with the boldness of Italian fare.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders

Minestrone Soup

A bowl of hearty minestrone soup packed with green beans, pasta, zucchini, tomatoes, and herbs, served with crusty bread slices.
Minestrone Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When you crave something both nourishing and brimming with varied textures, it’s time for Minestrone Soup. This vegetable-packed bowl is a celebration of everything the garden offers. It’s like each spoonful brings a different flavor to the conversation. This soup says, ‘settle in and warm up,’ with every serving.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

Mushroom Risotto

A bowl of risotto with mushrooms and parmesan cheese.
Mushroom Risotto. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Prepare to stir your way to creamy perfection with Mushroom Risotto. This dish is a testament to patience, transforming arborio rice into a creamy, dreamy dish with an umami mushroom flavor that’s hard to top. It’s the perfect choice for a cozy night in, offering a fulfilling depth of flavor that belies its humble ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Risotto

Marry Me Chicken Soup

A creamy pasta dish with spinach, shredded chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and shell pasta, garnished with herbs.
Marry Me Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

There’s a soup that’s so good; it might just prompt a marriage proposal. Warm and irresistible, Marry Me Chicken Soup is the spoonful of comfort that you want on any given day. It’s more than soup; it’s a promise in a bowl, extending an invitation for more. It’s sure to become a regular in your meal plan.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Soup

Ooni Pizza Dough

Someone sprinkling flour over pizza dough.
Ooni Pizza Dough. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

What’s more thrilling than making pizza from scratch? Starting with Ooni Pizza Dough sets the foundation for a pizza night that’s extra special. It rolls out the red carpet for any toppings you choose. This is your home turning into a pizzeria, where the humble dough rises to greatness.
Get the Recipe: Ooni Pizza Dough

Ravioli Casserole

Close-up of a baked dish with ravioli, mushrooms, asparagus, and melted cheese on top.
Ravioli Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Turn a classic pasta into a bake and you get Ravioli Casserole. It’s like the ravioli said, ‘Let’s take this up a notch,’ and the result is a dish that’s both familiar and thrilling. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or just making sure leftovers are even better the next day. It’s Italian comfort food with a twist.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

A lasagna being dished up.
Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna brings a beautiful twist to the classic lasagna with its lighter, yet equally savory, filling. Here, spinach and creamy ricotta blend in layers of pasta for a meal that feels indulgent without being too heavy. It’s a wonderful way to sneak some greens into your dinner in the most delicious way possible.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

Pizza Salad

Homemade pizza salad in a serving bowl with wooden salad servers resting on top.
Pizza Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Picture a salad that satisfies like a pizza. Pizza Salad is a whirlwind of flavors you usually find on pizza, but with the lightness of a salad. It’s creative, it’s unexpected, and yet it works so brilliantly. It’s the dish that answers the dilemma of choosing between salad and pizza.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

Three Cheese Manicotti

A plate of stuffed cannelloni topped with tomato sauce, grated cheese, and fresh basil.
Three Cheese Manicotti. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Dig into pasta shells filled with melty goodness with Three Cheese Manicotti. It’s a cheese lover’s dream, wrapped up in a pasta embrace. It serves as a reminder that some of the best things in life are the simplest, covered in cheese and baked to perfection.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti

Pasta alla Norma

A pot filled with penne pasta in a tomato sauce, topped with grated cheese, basil leaves, and herbs.
Pasta alla Norma. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Dig into the heart of Sicily with Pasta alla Norma, a dish that’s both humble and full of flavor. Featuring a sweet and savory blend inspired by the island’s produce, it strikes a lovely balance that’s hard to resist. This is the pasta dish you choose when you want to bring a bit of Mediterranean sunshine to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma

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