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
Noodle-Free Ratatouille Lasagna
Eggplant, zucchini, and yellow squash replace pasta in this high-protein vegetarian lasagna with cottage cheese and mozzarella.
Red Crêpe Bundles
An elegant, visually stunning, and surprisingly easy-to-prepare dessert: these red crêpe bundles are perfect for impressing on Valentine's Day (and beyond)!
Revisited Amatriciana with Pork Loin & Confit Cherry Tomatoes
Discover the revisited amatriciana with pork loin and confit cherry tomatoes: a gourmet recipe full of flavor, easy to prepare yet rich in layers.
Ribollita - Tuscan Bread Soup
Ribollita is a soup made with stale bread, vegetables, and legumes, typical of Tuscan cuisine. Discover the recipe for this delicious winter dish!
Ricotta and Spinach Ravioli - Authentic Italian Delight
Experience the authentic taste of Ricotta and spinach ravioli, a classic Italian dish perfect for special occasions.
Roast Pork
A succulent meat dish, roasted to perfection with an aromatic red wine sauce.
Roman-Style Artichokes
Roman-style artichokes, a delightful side dish with garlic, parsley, and mint. Perfect for any Italian-inspired meal.
Saffron Risotto
Saffron risotto, also known as Milanese risotto, is a simple yet delicious first course! Discover the recipe.
Smashed Salmon Broccoli Rice Bowls
Roasted salmon and broccoli meet jasmine rice and creamy garlic-sriracha mayo in these quick, protein-rich bowls.
Saltimbocca alla Romana
Discover the original recipe for Saltimbocca alla Romana: tender slices of veal with prosciutto and sage, ready in 20 minutes.
Sardines "beccafico" style
Sardines "beccafico" style are a delicious second course of Sicilian origin, perfect for those seeking a dish that combines the scent of the sea and natural sweetness.
Sausage and Friarielli
A complete and flavorful side dish that is easy to make, perfect for a delicious dinner: discover our recipe!
Sautéed Cabbage
This sautéed cabbage recipe is an easy, delicious vegetable side dish! The cabbage becomes amazingly tender and caramelized as it cooks. I season it with apple cider vinegar and garlic for sweet and savory depth of flavor.
Sautéed Chicory
Sautéed chicory, a versatile side dish with a slightly bitter and rustic flavor, features garlic and chili pepper. Ideal for meat or fish entrees.
Sautéed turnip tops
Discover how to cook sautéed turnip tops, a simple and tasty side dish with a crunchy texture and delicate flavor.
Scalloped Potatoes
This scalloped potatoes recipe is a delicious holiday side dish! Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with a creamy sauce and cheddar cheese, then baked until tender.
Schiacciata
The Tuscan oil-infused schiacciata is a typical street food focaccia, but now you can recreate it at home!
Sciusci
Sciusci (fried bread rings) from Basilicata, a simple yet delicious fried dough infused with rosemary. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Seafood Risotto
Seafood risotto is a creamy Italian rice dish with mussels, shrimp, and aromatic herbs, ideal for special occasions.
Sesame-crusted tuna tataki with anchovies
Sesame-crusted tuna tataki with anchovies is an easy appetizer to prepare. The tuna, quickly seared, remains incredibly tender.
Sheet Pan Cajun Tofu and Vegetables
A vibrant sheet-pan meal with crispy Cajun-seasoned tofu and roasted vegetables. Bold spices, simple prep, and one-pan cooking make it easy to share.
Sheet Pan Mediterranean Meatball Bowls with Roasted Vegetables
Sheet Pan Mediterranean Meatball Bowls with juicy turkey meatballs, roasted sweet potatoes, cauliflower, broccoli, creamy hummus, and pickled red onions. A high-protein, high-fiber dinner perfect for meal prep.
Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken
Boneless chicken thighs and colorful vegetables roast on one pan, then receive a reserved teriyaki glaze under the broiler before serving over rice.
Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry
Quick and easy seafood stir fry with tender shrimp, crisp broccoli, and savory oyster sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes.