50 Easy Italian Recipes For Lunch And Dinner (2024)

Looking for some new recipes to add to your weekly meal plan?

These easy Italian recipes will make your taste buds dance with delight.

More than 50 dish, approved by an Italian. Perfect for lunch and dinner, all Italian style!

50 Easy Italian Recipes For Lunch And Dinner (1)

With these traditional Italian dishes, you’ll be transported straight to the heart of Italy.

From pasta to meat and side dishes, we’ve got you covered with the best Italian recipes that the whole family will love.

50 Best Recipes For An Italian Feast

To end your meal on a sweet and tasty note, take a look at these delicious Italian desserts, from classic tiramisu to panna cotta, you’ll find many treats to choose from.

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Pasta With Broccoli Recipe

Looking for a plate of pasta that's a little bit healthier, but still hearty and filling?

Look no further than this pasta with broccoli. The combination of the tender broccoli florets and al dente pasta is perfectly complemented by the creamy sauce created with broccoli and parmesan cheese.

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Pasta With Fresh Tomato

For a lighter Italian food option, try this pasta with fresh tomato.

This dish is simple yet flavorful, with the sweetness of tomatoes paired with savory garlic and fragrant basil.

Perfect when you're looking for something comforting but not too heavy.

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Traditional Italian Pasta Fagioli Recipe

When it comes to traditional Italian food, pasta e fagioli is a must-try.

This classic soup recipe is packed with hearty ingredients like beans, pasta, and vegetables, making it the perfect quick meal.

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Eggplant Caponata Recipe

This traditional dish from Sicily is the perfect dish to add to your Italian night in.

Made with eggplant and tangy capers this dish is bursting with flavor.

The combination of sweet and savory notes makes it a versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer or a main course.

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Italian Frittata Recipe With Peas

Not only is it a delicious and easy-to-make dish, but it also makes for a great breakfast, lunch, or dinner option.

Serve with a side salad or some crusty bread for a satisfying meal that's sure to impress.

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Eggplant Parmesan

When it comes to Italian classic food, eggplant parmesan is a classic.

Serve the eggplant parmesan at room temperature with a nice Italian bread.

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Vegetarian Simple Pastina Soup Recipe

Looking for a comforting and filling vegetarian option?

Here is the best pastina recipe.

Made with just a handful of ingredients, yet this soup is hearty and wholesome. Top with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and enjoy!

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Breaded Pork Chops

If you're in the mood for a meat dish, these breaded pork chops are the perfect choice.

This recipe combines juicy pork chops with a crispy breadcrumb coating for ultimate texture and flavor.

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Risotto With Borlotti Beans

This creamy and rich dish is full of flavor and texture, thanks to the perfectly cooked arborio rice and the addition of borlotti beans.

This delicious and hearty risotto pairs perfectly with a glass of red wine and some crusty bread on the side.

And if you have any leftovers, it reheats beautifully for a quick and easy lunch or dinner the next day.

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Authentic Bolognese Sauce Recipe

For a rich and savory Italian dish try our authentic Bolognese sauce recipe. This sauce is the perfect complement to your favorite fresh pasta or lasagne.

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Pasta With Mushrooms - Pappardelle Recipe

A classic Italian pasta dish from Tuscany.

The earthy flavors of the mushrooms will add depth and richness to the overall meal.

Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a finishing touch.

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Spaghetti with Zucchini

This dish is packed with vegetables and comes together quickly for a satisfying easy meal.

This easy pasta recipe is a great way to sneak some extra veggies into your diet while still enjoying a comforting bowl of pasta.

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This traditional Italian recipe is a favorite for many reasons, but the best part is that it can be whipped up in no time.

All you need are some fresh clams, garlic, olive oil, and a handful of seasonings to create a delicious meal that will leave you feeling satisfied. The clams are cooked in a creamy white wine sauce, infusing the spaghetti with a delicate, subtle flavor that is irresistible.

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Tuscan Bean Salad

Photo Credit:earthly-provisions.com

This salad is a delicious blend of cannellini beans, crisp vegetables, and aromatic herbs, all tossed in a tangy vinaigrette.

It's a perfect side dish to any recipe, but can also stand on its own as a refreshing and flavorful main course.

So, add Tuscan Bean Salad to your list of Italian comfort food recipes, and get ready to enjoy the perfect combination of flavor and freshness.

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Pasta peas and bacon recipe

This recipe combines the creaminess of the peas with the saltiness of the bacon for a flavor explosion in every bite.

This is the recipe I learned from my grandmother, cooking everything in the same pot, for a super creamy pasta.

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Pasta Alla Norma Recipe

This traditional southern Italy recipe features tender eggplant, tangy tomato sauce, and aromatic basil.

Finish with a handful of torn basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated salted ricotta cheese.

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Classic Lasagna Recipe

When I have guests for special occasions over for lunch and I want to play it safe, I either make bolognese sauce and top the pasta with it, or I work on making lasagna bolognese like this one so I can make lunch ahead of time and bake at the right time.

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Crispy Italian Chicken Cutlets

Made with tender chicken breasts coated in a mix of breadcrumbs and fragrant fresh herbs, these cutlets are pan-fried until golden brown and crispy.

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Pasta Alla Gricia Recipe

This simple but delicious dish features crispy pancetta, savory Pecorino Romano cheese, and al dente pasta cooked to perfection.

One bite of this satisfying pasta dish, and you'll feel like you're dining in a cozy trattoria in central Italy.

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Our Focaccia Recipe with Olives, Tomatoes & Rosemary is a crowd-pleaser and the perfect side dish to complement any Italian meal. This traditional bread is baked with a generous drizzle of olive oil, topped with juicy cherry tomatoes, savory black olives, and fresh sprigs of rosemary.

This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be customized to your liking. Switch out the olives for roasted red peppers, or add some Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.

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The hearty combination of starchy potatoes, salty bacon, and delicate pasta makes this dish a crowd-pleaser that's sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

This dish is the perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly delicious.

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Pasta With Meatballs Recipe

If you're in the mood for a classic Italian dish, Pasta With Meatballs is a go-to option that never disappoints.

This recipe is simple yet satisfying, with tender meatballs and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich tomato sauce.

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Breaded Eggplants

If you're looking for a vegetarian option with lots of flavor, try out this recipe for Breaded Eggplants. It's a classic Italian dish that is easy to make.

The crunchy exterior of the eggplants combined with the soft texture inside is a perfect balance.

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Italian potato salad, with green beans and red onion recipe

If you're looking for a refreshing twist on a classic potato salad, this Italian version is sure to hit the spot. The addition of green beans and red onion gives it a pop of color and texture, while the simple dressing of olive oil and red wine vinegar lets the flavors of the vegetables shine through.

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Pasta With Cauliflower Recipe

For those who want a pasta dish that's both comforting and healthy, our pasta with cauliflower recipe is a must-try. It's a perfect way to sneak some vegetables into your meal and satisfy your carb cravings at the same time.

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Oven baked fish (Italian style, with tomatoes)

Photo Credit:www.christinascucina.com

If you're looking for a savory and healthy main course, this oven-baked fish is a must-try. This dish is simple to make, is light, flavorful, and satisfying.

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Creamy Pumpkin Risotto Recipe

Loaded with creamy pumpkin this pumpkin risotto recipe is a must-try for fall. This comforting and hearty dish combines sweet and savory tastes perfectly. The creamy texture of the pumpkin and Arborio rice pairs well with Parmesan cheese, creating a rich and satisfying flavor.

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Melon, Fig, and Prosciutto Salad

Photo Credit:www.mykitchenlove.com

This Melon, Fig, and Prosciutto Salad is a fresh Italian salad that is perfect for any lunch or dinner party!

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Stracciatella soup (Italian egg drop soup)

Photo Credit:www.mychefsapron.com

Stracciatella soup (Italian egg drop soup) is a classic Italian recipe that's perfect for a cozy night in.

This soup is made by whisking eggs and cheese into hot broth, creating strands of egg that give the soup a unique texture and flavor.

It's a easy recipe that can be customized to your liking by adding vegetables, herbs, or tortellini like this recipe.

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Italian Salad Recipe

Photo Credit:www.dinneratthezoo.com

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Easy Baked Spaghetti

Photo Credit:glendaembree.com

This dish is simple to make and requires just a few ingredients. Once layered together in a baking dish, it's baked until bubbly and golden brown, resulting in a delicious twist on the classic spaghetti dish.

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Marinara Sauce

Photo Credit:twocloveskitchen.com

Marinara sauce is a staple in Italian cooking and is made from just a few simple ingredients. The key to a delicious marinara sauce is letting it simmer for at least an hour to allow the flavors to fully develop.

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Italian Pork Shank Osso Buco

Photo Credit:juliarecipes.com

This dish is a traditional Milanese recipe that features tender, slow-cooked pork shanks in a rich tomato-based sauce. The result is a melt-in-your-mouth dish.

This dish is best served with a generous helping of creamy polenta or a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.

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Bresaola carpaccio

Photo Credit:fedetheclumsychef.com

Bresaola carpaccio is the perfect light and refreshing meal perfect for lunch.

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Spaghetti arrabiata

Photo Credit:fedetheclumsychef.com

Spaghetti arrabiata is a classic Italian dish that packs a spicy punch. The name literally translates to "angry spaghetti", and it's easy to see why. This pasta dish is made with a tomato-based sauce infused with red pepper flakes and garlic.

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Italian Sausage and Peppers

Photo Credit:amandascookin.com

Sausage and Peppers are a classic Italian food that will leave you feeling satisfied and cozy.

Serve the sausage and peppers hot, with a side of freshly baked bread or a bowl of cheesy polenta.

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Eggplant Involtini - Italian comfort food

Photo Credit:itsnotcomplicatedrecipes.com

This delicious Eggplant Involtini is the perfect meal, ideal for entertaining and can be made in advance. Serve for lunch with a green salad on the side.

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Italian Pink Sauce Pasta

Photo Credit:www.flavourstreat.com

This pink sauce pasta is easy and quick dish made with few simple ingredients and gets ready in under 30 minutes. It makes a perfect filling dish for any meal.

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Stuffed Artichokes

Photo Credit:enzasquailhollowkitchen.com

These tender, flavorful artichokes are filled with a delicious mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, and Parmesan cheese. Baked in the oven until golden brown, they make for a mouth-watering side dish or easy lunch.

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Ribollita Italian Bean Soup

Photo Credit:xoxobella.com

For those looking for a lighter option, the ribollita Italian bean soup is a perfect choice. This hearty soup is packed with wholesome vegetables and beans and finished off with chunks of bread, making it a filling and satisfying meal.

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Neapolitan Pizza

Photo Credit:www.splashoftaste.com

Making a Neapolitan pizza at home may seem intimidating, but with a few key ingredients and techniques, it's easier than you might think.

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Basil pesto pasta

Photo Credit:www.splashoftaste.com

The combination of the fragrant basil, nutty pine nuts, and salty parmigiano reggiano cheese creates a rich and flavorful sauce that will make your taste buds sing. Plus, the vibrant green color of the pesto is sure to brighten up even the dreariest of evenings.

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Italian Stuffed Peppers

Photo Credit:littlesunnykitchen.com

These hearty and savory peppers are filled with a mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomatoes, creating a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in.

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Burrata Caprese Salad

Photo Credit:www.mapleandmango.com

This Burrata Caprese is the perfect summer lunch featuring juicy heirloom tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella and fresh basil.

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Puttanesca Sauce With Linguine

Photo Credit:ramshacklepantry.com

Pasta Puttanesca Sauce is a traditional and comforting recipe straight from Italy. This is the best, simple recipe that you can make in no time with just a few ingredients.

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Spaghetti Alla Bottarga Di Muggine

Photo Credit:yourguardianchef.com

For those who are feeling adventurous in the kitchen, spaghetti alla bottarga di muggine is the perfect dish to try. Bottarga, a salted and cured fish roe, is a popular ingredient in Italian cuisine and brings a unique seafood flavor to this pasta dish.

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Italian Wedding Soup

Photo Credit:onmykidsplate.com

This Italian wedding soup is the perfect dish for those looking for a lighter option.

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Spaghetti Carbonara

Photo Credit:jackslobodian.com

This classic dish is traditionally made with eggs, guanciale or pancetta and parmesan cheese, creating a creamy and savory sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.

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Panzanella Toscana salad

Photo Credit:thecinnamonjar.com

For a lighter Italian dish try Panzanella Toscana salad. This bread and tomato salad is a simple yet flavorful choice that's perfect for warmer weather. The salad is also incredibly versatile - you can add cucumbers, peppers, or even grilled chicken to make it a complete meal.

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Italian Pasta Salad

Photo Credit:www.smalltownwoman.com

This Easy Italian Pasta Salad is so simple and so attractive that you can make it for a weeknight meal, lunch or even for a crowd. A great pasta salad can be enjoyed anytime of the year. It combines rotini pasta, salami, fresh bell peppers, mozzarella cheese, artichoke hearts, grape tomatoes, sweet red onions and freshly grated Parmesan cheese tossed lightly with Italian dressing.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this roundup of delicious Italian lunch and dinner recipes!

Make sure to give these dishes a try, and don’t be afraid to experiment with your own twists and variations.

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50 Easy Italian Recipes For Lunch And Dinner (2024)

FAQs

What is a typical Italian lunch at home? ›

A typical Italian lunch consists of a primo (pasta, soup or risotto dish), a secondo (meat or fish-based dish) and a contorno (side dish). Italians love their carbs and enjoy adding freshly grated Parmesan cheese to their dishes. Italians also exhibit a truly incredible talent for reinventing leftovers.

What is just enough in Italian cooking? ›

Quanto Basta: This phrase roughly translates to “just enough.” It is used to describe how much of an ingredient should be added. It is essentially the Italian version of “to taste.”

What is the number 1 Italian dish? ›

Pizza. Besides pasta, pizza is perhaps the most popular and recognized Italian food. Pizza is considered a national symbol representing Italy to the rest of the world, so much so that UNESCO has acknowledged pizza as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

What do Italians eat for a quick lunch? ›

Italians typically have a quick lunch during week days consisting of a takeaway sandwich or “tavola calda.” On weekends or special occasions, Italians will indulge in the full course lunches. Takeaway food is part of the culture in Italy.

What are 5 traditional Italian dishes? ›

Here are 14 traditional dishes from around Italy.
  • Risotto Alla Milanese. Brought to Sicily by the Moors in the thirteenth century, rice is mostly grown in the fertile lands of northern Italy's Po Valley. ...
  • Polenta. ...
  • Lasagna. ...
  • Ravioli. ...
  • Osso buco. ...
  • Arancini. ...
  • Ribollita. ...
  • Spaghetti Alla Carbonara.
Sep 29, 2021

What do Italians eat for Sunday lunch? ›

  • Classic Chicken Cacciatore. ...
  • Italian-Style Beef and Porcini Stew. ...
  • Baked Crêpes Cacciatore with Parmesan Cream Sauce. ...
  • Tuscan Roast Pork with Potatoes, Fennel & Parsnips. ...
  • Beef Braciola Stuffed with Basil and Mozzarella. ...
  • Short Rib and Dried Porcini Lasagne. ...
  • Italian Wedding Soup. ...
Apr 15, 2020

What should you say to everyone before you start to eat in Italian? ›

Before starting to eat, you should always say Buon appetito! to your tablemates. Literally, this expression means “Good appetite,” but it really means, in context, “Enjoy your meal.”

What do Italian families eat for dinner? ›

Dinner (Cena)

A typical dinner at an Italian home is usually pasta, meat, and vegetables, and takes place around 8 p.m. Going out for dinner in Italy is a pretty big thing to do, or eat, for that matter: Several courses, wine, and a long time chatting and lingering are all part of the event.

What is the oldest Italian dish? ›

Testaroli has been described as "the earliest recorded pasta". It is also a native dish of the southern Liguria and northern Tuscany regions of Italy. Testaroli is prepared from a batter that is cooked on a hot flat surface, after which it may be consumed.

What are the 3 most popular foods in Italy? ›

Top 10 Most Iconic Foods to Eat in Italy
  • Spaghetti alla Carbonara.
  • Napoletana Pizza.
  • Risotto.
  • Arancini.
  • Fiorentina Steak.
  • Polenta.
  • Ossobuco.
  • Truffles.
Aug 21, 2021

What is a typical dinner in Italy? ›

Dinner (Cena)

A typical dinner at an Italian home is usually pasta, meat, and vegetables, and takes place around 8 p.m. Going out for dinner in Italy is a pretty big thing to do, or eat, for that matter: Several courses, wine, and a long time chatting and lingering are all part of the event.

What are the top 10 Italian appetizers? ›

The 11 Best Italian Appetizers Ever
  • Bruschetta of Spring Vegetables. ...
  • Bruschetta with Pickled Okra. ...
  • White-bean and Prosciutto Bruschetta. ...
  • Ricotta and Roasted Tomato Bruschetta with Pancetta. ...
  • Autumn Fritto Misto. ...
  • Potato Focaccia Rolls. ...
  • Grilled Antipasto with Garlicky Bean Dip. ...
  • Double-Grilled Antipasto Sandwiches.
May 24, 2019

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