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 216 recipes
Belgian Waffles
Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside: With this simple and quick recipe, you can quickly make delicious, thick waffles from Belgium!
Birria Tacos
Experience slow-cooked beef in rich, smoky birria tacos. Perfectly balanced with bold spices and melted cheese.
Black Bean Chili
This easy and comforting black bean chili is rich, full of warm chili spices, and perfect for a busy weeknight.
Braised Bamboo Shoots with Mushrooms
My braised bamboo shoots with mushrooms uses oyster sauce, soy sauce, ginger and Shaoxing wine to create a side dish that is just as satisfying as a main dish.
Branzino (sea bass) with herbs in a salt crust
Branzino with herbs in a salt crust is an aromatic fish main course, made with a particular baking method that is both authentic and flavorful!
Burst Cherry Tomato Bucatini with Burrata
Glossy white-wine bucatini with burst cherry tomatoes, creamy burrata, fresh herbs, and crisp lemon-chili ciabatta crumbs.
Buttermilk Biscuits
These Buttermilk Biscuits bake up tall, flaky, and buttery with soft layers inside and golden tops. Easy to make from scratch and perfect for breakfast, dinner, or with sausage gravy.
Caponata
The caponata is one of the most famous Sicilian side dishes, made with fried eggplant, celery, tomatoes, olives, and the typical sweet and sour sauce that characterizes it.
Caprese Cake
Caprese cake is a delightful chocolate and almond dessert from Capri, made without flour.
Carpaccio alla Cipriani
Carpaccio alla Cipriani is a perfect example of how simplicity and quality can create a refined balance: fresh, thinly sliced veal paired with a creamy sauce that combines mayonnaise and Worcestershire sauce.
Cashew Tabbouleh with Stewed Vegetables
Bulgur and tender summer vegetables finished with whole cashews and a creamy basil-cashew Parmesan pesto.
Cheesy Chicken and Broccoli Skillet
This easy, cheesy chicken and broccoli skillet comes together in 30 minutes with ground chicken, broccoli florets, and leftover rice topped with melted cheese.
Chicken and Rice Casserole
This Chicken and Rice Casserole is a comforting meal that transforms simple ingredients into a rich, satisfying dish. Rooted in Italian culinary traditions, it highlights quality components with homemade sauces.
Chicken Broth Bowl
This easy Chicken Broth Bowl recipe is a one-pot soup made with chicken, rice, and veggies for a nourishing soup everyone will love!
Chicken Cacciatora
Chicken Cacciatora is a simple and delicious Tuscan meat main course, perfect for the whole family.
Chicken Cobbler
Chicken Cobbler offers a comforting, one-skillet meal that masterfully balances a creamy, savory filling with a golden homemade cheddar biscuit topping.
Chicken Enchilada Casserole
This easy casserole has all the flavors of chicken enchiladas all baked in delicious, creamy, layers.
Chicken Nanban with Tartar Sauce
Japanese fried chicken cutlets are soaked in a sweet-tangy vinegar-soy sauce and served hot with chilled, chunky egg-and-cucumber tartar sauce.
Chickpea Curry with Coconut and Kale
This chickpea curry is a testament to how simplicity and respect for ingredients can create a deeply satisfying meal. Rooted in the Italian culinary spirit of honoring fresh, seasonal produce and balanced flavors, this dish elevates humble pantry staples like chickpeas and kale with a rich, creamy coconut curry sauce.
Chickpea Farinata
If you love classic farinata but are looking for a more delicious and crispy version, this chickpea farinata is perfect for you!
Chili Coconut Tofu Sandwich
Thin crisp-edged tofu coated in toasted garlic-coconut chutney, stacked with herb yogurt and quick-pickled cabbage.
Chinese Eggs with Soy Bean Sauce
Inspired by a recent trip to China, this Chinese egg dish with fermented bean paste is a quick, easy midweek dinner that’s savory and super tasty!
Chinese-Style Instant Pot Shredded Chicken
This Instant Pot shredded chicken is my go-to meal prep recipe. Tender chicken pressure cooked in oyster sauce, soy sauce, ginger, and garlic comes out juicy and full of Chinese flavor in just 20 minutes. I make a big batch every Sunday and use it all week.
Classic Italian Potato Gnocchi
Soft homemade potato gnocchi made with red potatoes and 00 flour, with complete versions both with egg and without egg.