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
Peruvian Roasted Chicken
Make Peruvian roasted chicken with golden, crispy skin and spicy aji verde sauce inspired by Pio Pio, one of New York's best rotisserie chicken spots.
Pizza marinara
A light pizza seasoned with tomato sauce, oil, garlic, and oregano. One of the simplest ways to make pizza!
Polenta concia
Polenta concia is a rich and hearty recipe from the rural tradition that encompasses the mountain areas of Northern Italy, combining simplicity with depth of flavor.
Polenta with Sausage and Cheese
A hearty, traditional dish from mountain regions, perfect for winter.
Polpettone
Discover the meatloaf recipe: slices of veal wrap a delicious meat filling for a second course ideal for special occasions.
Pork Roast in the Style of Porchetta
This pork roast is a perfect main course for special occasions, Sundays, or even a dinner with friends!
Potato Gnocchi
Homemade potato gnocchi made with baked Russet potatoes, egg yolks and flour, then boiled until pillowy and pan-seared in butter until golden.
Potato Spaghetti
Here's an intriguing recipe: potato spaghetti. This unique dish combines the texture of vegetable spaghetti with traditional pasta, offering a versatile and original culinary experience.
Potatoes Au Gratin
Creamy potatoes au gratin tastes like scalloped potatoes with a cheesy upgrade, baked golden and bubbly with tender layers in every bite.
Puff Pastry Pinwheels with Salmon
Mmm, these savory salmon pinwheels are quick and easy to make, packed with salmon and herb cream cheese. A brilliant party snack that tastes amazing both cold and warm.
Pulled Shredded Chicken
This straightforward recipe delivers tender, moist shredded chicken that excels in versatility and simplicity. Ideal for meal prep or quick dinners, it respects the ingredient's natural qualities and embraces the Italian culinary ethos: minimal fuss, maximum flavor, and respect for technique.
Pumpkin Risotto
A creamy and sweet Italian dish that captures the essence of Northern Italy's culinary traditions.
Quiche with Pears, Sage and Fontina
Quiche with pears, fontina and sage: a savory tart with an aromatic shortcrust pastry and a creamy filling that balances sweet fruit and rich cheese.
Quick Air Fryer Enchiladas
Vegetarian enchiladas with arrabbiata sauce, corn, black beans, cheese, and jalapeños, ready in the air fryer in 20 minutes.
Ramen Eggs (Ajitsuke Tamago)
Soft-boiled, marinated Ramen Eggs (Ajitsuke Tamago) are packed with umami flavor. Jammy yolks and a salty-sweet soy marinade come together with just 4 simple ingredients.
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.
Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini
A hearty, one-pan pasta dish featuring juicy sausage, burst cherry tomatoes, and tender zucchini tossed in a savory tomato sauce.
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.