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
Cheesy Spaetzle and Leek Casserole
Creamy German spaetzle casserole with softened leek and savory cheese, prepared in 15 minutes and baked until golden.
Spaghetti alla Puttanesca
Spaghetti alla puttanesca is a delicious pasta dish with tomato, olives, anchovies, and capers, easy and quick to prepare! Discover the ingredients and recipe.
Spaghetti Frittata
A complete dish that combines simplicity and depth of flavor, perfect for picnics or using up leftover pasta!
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
A classic of Italian cuisine, Spaghetti with clams is a comforting first course dish from the Campania region. Cooked throughout Italy and the world!
Spicy Peanut Chicken Bowls (High Protein)
A delicious, high-protein meal featuring juicy grilled chicken thighs coated in a creamy, spicy peanut sauce, served over seasoned grain bowls.
Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna Roll Ups
Transform classic layered lasagna into elegant, individual portions that are perfect for meal prep. This format respects each ingredient while offering a fuss-free way to enjoy traditional Italian cuisine.
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
Stewed Cuttlefish
A simple yet delicious seafood dish, stewed cuttlefish is perfect for pasta seasoning. The rich flavors make it a delightful choice.
Stuffed Zucchini Flowers: Fried or Baked?
Discover the perfect stuffed zucchini flowers, prepared with a classic ricotta filling and two cooking methods.
Supplì al Telefono
Supplì al telefono, also known as supplì alla romana, get their name from the mozzarella inside, which melts into golden strands.
Sweet and Savory Crepes
With the basic batter for sweet and savory crepes, you can finally prepare perfect crepes to fill as you like! Here's the recipe.
Tagliatelle with White Ragù
Egg tagliatelle coated in a slow-cooked tomato-free ragù of beef, fresh sausage, pancetta, vegetables, white wine and herbs.
Tagliolini Tart
Tagliolini Tart is an easy, impressive baked pasta tart with puff pastry, peas, ham, and cheese that slices neatly for serving.
Taiwanese Three Cup Chicken
Tender chicken thigh pieces braised with soy, rice wine, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and Thai basil until coated in a glossy mahogany sauce.
Thai Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
This dish reimagines classic Thai chicken satay by simmering tender chicken breast pieces directly in a rich, creamy peanut sauce. Instead of the traditional skewered grilling, gentle baking infuses flavors of garlic, ginger, soy, lime, and heat, simplifying the process while enhancing the taste.
Thai Grilled Chicken (Gai Yang)
Recipe video above. This Thai Chicken recipe is an easy way to make Gai Yang at home, Thailand’s famous barbecue chicken. It uses a fragrant Thai marinade that delivers street-stall delicious – without pounding pastes, lighting coals or wrestling a whole chicken! Cook on the stove though it's especially great on the BBQ. A dipping sauce isn’t essential because the marinade already brings big flavor and keeps the chicken super juicy. But in Thailand it’s traditional, so why not? Spoon it over or dunk away!
Thai Meatball Salad - Yum Look Chin
A vibrant and spicy Thai meatball salad (Yum Look Chin) featuring juicy meatballs tossed in a zesty dressing of lime, fish sauce, and chili.
Thai Pork and Tomato Noodles (Kanom Jeen Nam Ngiew)
Kanom Jeen Nam Ngiew is a quietly revered comfort dish from northern Thailand, showcasing rice vermicelli bathed in a delicate yet flavorful pork and tomato curry broth. This dish embodies the harmony of fresh herbs and umami-rich ingredients, delivering a satisfying and nourishing experience.
Thandai Mousse Gulab Jamun Cups
Discover my new favorite festive treat: Thandai Mousse Gulab Jamun Cups! This delightful dessert is a perfect fusion of Thandai and mousse, offering an exquisite blend of flavors and textures.
Tofu Spinach Ricotta Tacos
Ricotta tacos are a fusion dinner ready in under 30 minutes! Crispy tortillas stuffed with creamy tofu ricotta, perfect for meal prep or as an appetizer.
Tomato and Bread Soup (Pappa al Pomodoro)
Tomato and Bread Soup is a traditional Tuscan first course made with stale bread, peeled tomatoes, garlic, basil, and extra virgin olive oil.
Tomato Bruschetta
Tomato bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer: toasted bread topped with ripe tomatoes and basil.