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 192 recipes
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!
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.
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.
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!
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.
Coconut Curry Potsticker Soup
This soup blends bold Asian flavors with Italian-inspired simplicity, using a single pot and fresh ingredients. A creamy coconut broth, enhanced by red curry paste, forms the base for tender potstickers and vibrant vegetables.
Corn Casserole
A classic stir-and-bake corn casserole with a soft, creamy center and lightly crisp top, perfect for holidays and weeknight dinners.
Cowboy Butter Chicken
This Cowboy Butter Chicken is a quick one-pan dinner made with juicy chicken breasts tossed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce with herbs, lemon, and a touch of heat. Bold, balanced, and ready in about 30 minutes, it’s the kind of meal that feels a little extra without the extra effort.
Cowboy Butter Salmon
Cowboy Butter Salmon is a quick skillet salmon recipe where crispy pan-seared fillets are finished in a bold garlic butter sauce with lemon, herbs, Dijon mustard, and a little heat. Ready in about 20 minutes, it’s a simple dinner with big flavor.
Creamy Lemon Chicken with Asparagus
If you’re craving something cozy but fresh, this Creamy Lemon Chicken with Asparagus delivers. It’s an easy one-skillet dinner perfect for spring.
Crispy Chicken Katsu Noodle Bowls
Golden crispy chicken katsu, saucy noodles, and spicy-sweet mayo—this easy bowl is one you’ll make on repeat!
Crispy Edamame Shiitake Bowls
These flavorful edamame bowls start with lemony broccoli rice topped with this rich, Indo-Chinese-inspired shiitake mushroom sauce and crispy, crunchy roasted edamame on top! The combination of textures and flavors is just absolutely fabulous.
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Crockpot Chicken Tetrazzini
Chicken Tetrazzini is a classic Italian-American comfort dish that combines tender chicken, mushrooms, and pasta in a luscious, creamy sauce. This slow cooker version honors the tradition of simple, hearty ingredients while embracing the ease of modern technique.