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
Falafel: Original Recipe and Tips
Crisp, aromatic falafel made from soaked dried chickpeas, fresh herbs and spices, with a tender interior that never turns dry.
Farro and Borlotti Bean Soup
A hearty Italian soup of chewy farro, fresh borlotti beans, aromatic vegetables and sage in a creamy bean broth.
Fennel and Orange Salad
A crisp Sicilian-inspired winter salad with shaved fennel, juicy orange segments, olives, pink peppercorns and wild fennel.
Firecracker Chicken
Crispy twice-fried chicken coated in a glossy Chinese American sweet-spicy sauce with garlic, chili and scallions.
Fish Pochero
Filipino fish pochero with golden fried tilapia, Chinese sausage, chickpeas, saba bananas and vegetables in a savory tomato broth.
Focaccia with Cheese from Recco
Paper-thin Ligurian focaccia made without yeast, filled with creamy crescenza and baked crisp in two trays at very high heat.
French Fish Pie
Firm white fish baked in creamy dill, leek and fennel béchamel beneath crisp golden swirls of buttery mashed potato.
Frosted Gingerbread Cinnamon Rolls
Soft, fluffy gingerbread cinnamon rolls with double the cinnamon swirl and the dreamiest vanilla icing. Cozy, festive, and perfect for Christmas morning!
Gnocchi alla Sorrentina
Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is a rich Campanian first course with tender potato gnocchi, tomato sauce, basil, and melted cheese.
Gnocchi with Gorgonzola
Gnocchi with gorgonzola is an irresistible first course with a flavorful filling of spicy gorgonzola.
Grandma's Classic American Goulash
This American-style goulash is a quintessential comfort dish that brings together simple pantry staples into a hearty, tomato-rich meal.
Grandma's Pork and Vegetable Stew (Jab Chai)
Jab Chai, a comforting Thai stew with pork ribs and vegetables, is a simple yet deeply flavorful dish. Inspired by Teochew Chinese immigrants, this stew highlights the beauty of slow-cooked ingredients.
Gratinated Cauliflower
Gratinated cauliflower is a rich and tasty side dish: baked with cheese and béchamel sauce, it will be appreciated even by children.
Gratinated Fennel
Gratinated fennel is a delicious baked side dish, enriched with a delightful crust. Discover how to prepare this easy recipe at home!
Greek Feta and Melty Gouda Cheesesteak
Quick, flavorful weeknight dinner with seasoned lamb or beef, fresh toppings, and oregano fries.
Green beans stewed in a rustic style
A flavorful and hearty spring side dish, green beans stewed in a rustic style are packed with rich flavors from bacon and herbs. Discover how to make this simple yet delicious recipe.
Hasselback Potatoes
These easy Hasselback Potatoes turn simple russets into crispy, golden, fan-cut potatoes with lots of room for your favorite toppings.
Healthy Cheddar Chicken Chili
Healthy cheddar chicken chili made in one pot with chipotle, beans, and veggies. Cozy, smoky, and perfect for cold nights!
Homemade Fresh Rice Noodles (Ho Fun)
Fresh rice noodles, known as ho fun, are a cornerstone of many beloved dishes like Pad See Ew. Their soft, chewy texture is unmatched by store-bought versions, and mastering them at home is surprisingly straightforward with just two essential ingredients.
Homemade Romagna Piadina
Homemade Romagna piadina is a simple Italian flatbread made for filling with savory or sweet ingredients. It is soft, practical, and rooted in street-food tradition.
Honey Glazed Ham
This easy Honey Glazed Ham recipe turns a spiral-cut smoked ham into a sweet, sticky, holiday main dish with a simple homemade glaze made from pantry staples!
Instant Pot Pork Loin
This Instant Pot pork loin recipe is smothered with a savory spice rub and out-of-this-world tender. Sear and cook this juicy pork roast all in one pot, and turn the leftovers into an easy gravy!
Italian Seafood Boil
A generous Italian-style seafood boil with crab, lobster, mussels, clams, shrimp, sausage, potatoes, and corn tossed in garlic butter.
Japanese Hot Pot Meal Prep
Prepare six Japanese chicken-and-vegetable nabe kits, freeze them, and simmer one straight from frozen in a quick dashi broth.