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 238 recipes
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.
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Thighs with Pistachio Chimichurri
Yogurt-marinated chicken thighs with lemon, garlic and fresh herbs, grilled until juicy and topped with a bright pistachio chimichurri. A fresh summer dinner.
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 Chili Recipe
A thick, hearty homemade chili made with simple ingredients like ground beef, kidney and black beans, tomatoes, and a warm blend of spices.
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 Chipotle Chicken Enchilada Bake
Shredded chicken simmered in a smoky honey chipotle enchilada sauce, topped with tortillas and melted cheese, and served with a fresh charred corn and avocado salad.
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.
JB's French Pork Schnitzel
People say adding “French” to something doesn’t mean it’s better. But my passport would like to disagree! These schnitzels get a French flair with Herbes de Provence in the breadcrumbs.
Kalimera's Famous Greek Chicken Gyros
Kalimera's Famous Greek Chicken Gyros features tender marinated chicken, warm spices, and classic gyros flavor for a generous main course.
KFC Thai Spicy Chicken Rice Bowl (Khao Yum Gai Zabb)
This dish marries crispy popcorn chicken with traditional Thai laab seasoning, offering a bold and vibrant flavor profile. The genius lies in the crunchy texture and tangy dressing that keeps it crisp.
Lamb Navarin
A classic French lamb stew with fall-apart shoulder, turnip, potatoes, pearl onions, carrots, and peas in a glossy white-wine sauce.
Lemon Veal Scaloppine
Lemon veal scaloppine are a simple, quick, and flavorful meat dish: tender veal slices with a fresh citrus aroma!
Lentil Burgers
A delicious and hearty plant-based alternative to traditional beef burgers, made with protein-rich brown lentils and warm spices.
Lentil Soup
A hearty and comforting winter dish made with lentils, leeks, potatoes, and tomatoes. Follow the recipe for a flavorful meal.
Livornese Fish Stew
A rich and flavorful stew featuring locally sourced fish such as scorpionfish, octopus, squid, and mussels.
Make your own egg salad (classic and easy)
You have to try this egg salad, just like grandma used to make! It's a classic, super creamy and ready in just 15 minutes. This tried-and-tested recipe is perfect for your next breakfast or brunch.
Margherita Pizza
Margherita pizza is the classic Italian pizza with tomato, mozzarella, and basil, baked for a simple pizzeria-style result at home.
Mashed Potato Casserole
Creamy, cheesy, buttery perfection! This make-ahead mashed potato casserole is the ultimate comforting side for any meal or holiday gathering!
Meat and Bacon Rolls
A simple yet delicious second course, these Meat and Bacon Rolls are packed with a cheesy and flavorful filling! Discover the recipe.