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 227 recipes
Sausage and Friarielli
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 is a versatile side dish, with a slightly bitter and rustic flavor, featuring garlic and chili pepper, ideal for meat or fish entrees.
Sautéed turnip tops
Sautéed turnip tops are a simple and tasty side dish. Discover here how to cook turnip tops, creating a genuine and delicious dish!
Schiacciata
The Tuscan oil-infused schiacciata is a typical street food focaccia, but from now on, thanks to our recipe, you can recreate it at home!
Sciusci
Sciusci (also known as fried sciusci or fried bread rings) are a typical dish from the Basilicata region, widespread mainly in the Pollino mountains, in the province of Potenza. These delicious savory fried rings are made with a simple dough based on water, flour, and yeast, enriched in this case with a special rosemary infusion that perfumes the dough in a surprising way. Fragrant on the outside and soft on the inside, they are perfect to serve hot, freshly fried, as an appetizer, savory snack, or even as a substitute for bread to accompany cold cuts and cheeses. A simple recipe from the peasant tradition that, with few ingredients and good frying, like my savory graffe, yields a small masterpiece!
Seafood Risotto
Seafood risotto is a classic Italian dish, perfect for special occasions and enjoyed year-round!
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. Discover the recipe!
Sheet Pan Cajun Tofu and Vegetables
This dish captures the vibrant spirit of New Orleans through a simple, one-pan preparation that celebrates bold Cajun flavors with the unmistakable texture of crispy tofu and roasted vegetables. The technique of pressing and coating extra-firm tofu in cornstarch ensures a perfect balance of crunch and tenderness, while the roasted potatoes, bell peppers, and onions provide a hearty, colorful accompaniment.
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.
Sliders
This easy recipe for Sliders is perfect for feeding a group or serving at parties, game day, or a quick family dinner! A delicious and simple appetizer.
Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Bowls
This recipe embodies the beauty of simplicity and patience in Italian-inspired cooking philosophy, even though the flavors lean towards a Southwestern profile. Using the slow cooker allows the chicken to absorb the spices deeply while remaining tender and juicy, a technique akin to the slow braises of Italian cucina. The result is a versatile, hearty dish that respects the ingredient's integrity and offers a balanced, wholesome meal. The assembly into bowls reflects the Italian tradition of combining staple grains with proteins and fresh toppings, creating a complete and satisfying plate. This dish is a testament to how mastering straightforward techniques and quality ingredients can yield a meal that is both comforting and vibrant.
Soboro Don (Ground Chicken Bowl)
Craving a quick and comforting meal? Try Soboro Don, sweet-savory ground chicken and fluffy scrambled eggs over a bowl of rice. It’s a simple bento lunch classic that’s just as delicious over hot rice for a weeknight dinner. The best part? It’s ready in only 30 minutes.
Sourdough Braid
A very special, sweet sourdough braid without yeast, which is really something to be proud of!
Spaghetti with Asparagus
Cooking is a constant surprise; you never stop discovering new things, even in the simplest preparations. This dish gives the spaghetti the flavor of asparagus, and, in addition, the combination with a carrot cream is truly delicious.
Spaghetti with Clams
Spaghetti with clams, a classic of Italian cuisine. A first course dish with origins in the Campania region, cooked throughout Italy and the world!
Spicy Edamame
Spicy Edamame is my favorite way to turn a simple bag of frozen soybean pods into an irresistible snack. I toss them in a simple and savory sauce with garlic, chili paste, and miso. Bold and punchy, it's an easy appetizer with big flavor that comes together in minutes.
Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna Roll Ups
Lasagna roll ups transform the classic layered lasagna into elegant, individual portions that are perfect for meal prep and freezing. This format respects the integrity of each ingredient while offering a practical way to enjoy a traditional Italian dish without the fuss of slicing a large casserole. The filling here is a delicate blend of ricotta and spinach, embodying the Italian principle of simplicity and respect for fresh, quality ingredients.
Sponge Cake
Sponge cake is the most famous basic preparation in pastry: eggs, sugar, flour, and cornstarch transform into a soft cake to be filled!
Squid Ink Risotto
Squid ink risotto with sautéed squid is a truly flavorful seafood appetizer, perfect for many occasions!
Steamed Ribs with Pumpkin
Sweet, savory steamed ribs with pumpkin
Strawberry Cream (Quick and No Eggs)
Strawberry cream is a delicious dessert perfect for filling cakes and sponge cakes. Here is my recipe for making it thick and delicious.
Struffoli
Struffoli are a traditional fried pastry from Naples and represent one of the most characteristic recipes of the Christmas season.
Stuffed Zucchini Flowers
Stuffed zucchini flowers: a delicious appetizer, prepared with the classic filling and two cooking methods. Fried or baked? Discover the recipes here!