Category
Main Course
Main Course in Italian Meals
The main course, or secondo, holds a central place in the structure of an Italian meal. It is the principal dish that follows the antipasto and primo, designed to provide substance and satisfaction without overwhelming the palate. This course is carefully balanced to complement the preceding dishes, respecting the natural rhythm and progression of flavors and textures throughout the meal.
In Italian culinary tradition, the main course often features proteins such as meat, fish, or legumes, prepared with attention to seasonality and regional identity. Its role is not merely to fill but to complete the dining experience, bringing a sense of harmony and intentionality to the table. Timing is essential; the main course arrives after lighter courses to ensure appetite and appreciation are preserved.
The cultural relevance of the main course extends beyond nourishment. It embodies the Italian value of measured generosity, where each dish contributes to a cohesive narrative of taste and care. Understanding the main course within this framework reveals how Italian cuisine achieves its distinctive balance through discipline, respect for ingredients, and thoughtful sequencing.
Recipes
Showing 24 of 227 recipes
Air Fryer Pork Chops
Make quick, easy, and juicy air fryer pork chops in just 20 minutes! This method is perfect for weeknights. These chops turn out perfectly seared with a flavorful, caramelized crust.
Almond Flour Cake
Discover how to prepare a delicious cake with almond flour and chocolate. A simple, gluten-free recipe perfect for any occasion.
Amaretti
Amaretti are almond-based cookies popular in many regions of Italy. They are delicious to enjoy with tea or as a sweet gift.
Apollo Tofu
Crispy, peppery Apollo tofu is a popular South-Indian appetizer that is just absolutely delicious! Serve it as a starter or side, or dish it up over rice. (nut-free with gluten-free and soy-free options)
Apple Baskets
Sometimes, all it takes is a little bit to satisfy a craving for something sweet without feeling too heavy: these apple baskets are a simple and light idea, perfect for autumn. Only two basic ingredients, no added sugars or fats, all the natural sweetness of the fruit and the healthy fats from the almonds. Plus, they are also vegan and gluten-free! I make them when I'm in the mood for something tasty but light, that I can enjoy for breakfast or a snack with a hot tea, or even after dinner, every day. I only use almond flour and apple puree, but you can add cinnamon, ginger, or a pinch of vanilla to customize them and make them even more fragrant and delicious.
Apple Muffins
Classic, wonderfully moist apple muffins with yogurt and oil. Quickly mixed together, wonderfully fluffy, and with an optional cinnamon-sugar crust.
Asian Cucumber Salad with Sesame
My Asian cucumber salad with sesame is particularly flavorful and crisp thanks to two simple tricks.
Asparagus Risotto
Asparagus risotto is a creamy spring appetizer: discover this delicious recipe that also uses the asparagus trimmings!
Avocado Cottage Cheese Dip
This cottage cheese dip recipe is a delicious high-protein snack or appetizer! Avocado makes it silky smooth and adds healthy fats. Serve with veggies, crackers, or pita for dipping! Gluten-free.
Baccalà alla vicentina
Baccalà alla vicentina is a tasty fish dish based on cod, olive oil, and milk, typical of Venetian cuisine! Discover the recipe.
Bagna Cauda
Bagna cauda is a typical dish from Piedmont, Italy, used as a dip for autumn vegetables.
Baked Artichokes (simple, tender, light)
Baked artichokes are a versatile side dish with few ingredients. Discover my recipe and video to make them tender and flavorful for many uses.
Baked Cod
Tender and flavorful baked cod: a simple recipe with few ingredients, perfect for a delicious, light fish dish suitable for any occasion.
Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
Creamy baked mac and cheese made with sharp cheddar and Parmesan in an extra saucy, silky base, finished with a crunchy panko topping.
Baked Salmon
Baked salmon: an easy, light, and delicious recipe. Perfect for a healthy lunch or an elegant dinner, ready in minutes! Discover the recipe here.
Baked Sea Bream
Baked sea bream is a classic and flavorful fish dish, prepared with a side of delicious potato wedges and plenty of aromatic herbs.
Baked Tofu
Baked tofu is a straightforward, elegant way to transform a humble block of extra-firm tofu into a delightfully chewy and lightly crisp protein. This recipe honors the Italian culinary principle that simplicity mastered is far superior to complexity invented. By pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture and coating it lightly with cornstarch, the tofu crisps beautifully in the oven without frying, preserving its tender interior. The modest seasoning with soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper keeps the flavor balanced and versatile, allowing this baked tofu to complement a wide range of dishes.
Bananas Fosters French Toast
Lighter make-ahead overnight baked French toast casserole with Bananas Foster—perfect for Easter morning or any special brunch.
Barolo Braised Beef
Barolo braised beef is a typical Piedmontese main course: the marinating and long cooking process make the meat very tender and flavorful. Here is the recipe!
Beccute
In the Marche region, there's a humble and fragrant dessert that speaks of the land, of recycling, and of simple, sweet thoughts. Beccute are cookies that embody the scent of the countryside, the wisdom of peasant cooking, and, who knows, the taste that even enchanted Giacomo Leopardi. In some areas of the Marche, these treats are known as "Leopardi's Beccute," as it is said that they were among the poet of Recanati's favorites.
Beef and Cabbage Stir Fry
Ground beef and cabbage stir fry made with a savory sauce and served over rice. This easy, high-protein one-pan dinner is perfect for busy weeknights.
Beef and Mustard Greens One Pot
Super easy, hot and savory beef and mustad greens in one pot.
Beef broth
Beef broth is a basic preparation in the kitchen that is used to accompany and flavor many recipes. Discover the recipe for making it at home here.
Beef stew
Beef stew is a simple, home-style second course that requires long cooking: discover the recipe to obtain tender and flavorful pieces of meat!