30 Italian Classics Made Super Simple
Craving authentic Italian flavors but short on time? Forget complicated recipes and hours in the kitchen!
This list is your passport to delicious Italian classics, all made shockingly simple. We’re talking minimal ingredients, quick prep, and maximum flavor – perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend feast.
Get ready to impress yourself (and maybe a few friends) with these streamlined versions of beloved Italian dishes. Let’s dive into the irresistible world of simplified Italian cooking!
Pasta Aglio e Olio
Garlic, olive oil, pasta – that’s it! This classic is unbelievably easy and bursts with flavor.
Spaghetti Carbonara
Skip the cream! This carbonara uses eggs, cheese, and pancetta for a truly authentic and simple sauce.
Margherita Pizza
Simple tomato sauce, mozzarella, basil – the quintessential pizza, effortlessly made.
Caprese Salad
Tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, balsamic glaze – fresh and vibrant, ready in minutes.
Bruschetta
Toasted bread topped with garlic, tomatoes, and basil – a perfect appetizer or light lunch.
Minestrone Soup
A hearty vegetable soup, easily customizable with whatever veggies you have on hand.
Chicken Parmesan
Breaded chicken cutlets, marinara sauce, and mozzarella – a comforting classic simplified.
Pasta Puttanesca
Olives, capers, anchovies, and tomatoes create a flavorful and surprisingly easy sauce.
Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Creamy ricotta, lemon zest, and pasta – a bright and refreshing dish.
Pasta with Pesto
Homemade pesto (or store-bought!) tossed with your favorite pasta – a classic for a reason.
Garlic Bread
Toasted bread, garlic butter – simple perfection.
Italian Sausage and Peppers
Sweet Italian sausage and bell peppers – a simple yet satisfying dish.
Meatballs
Simple meatballs simmered in marinara sauce – perfect for pasta or sandwiches.
Italian Wedding Soup
Chicken broth, meatballs, and tiny pasta – a comforting and classic soup.
Arancini
Fried risotto balls – surprisingly easy to make and incredibly delicious.
Polenta
Creamy polenta – a versatile base for various toppings.
Caprese Skewers
A fun twist on Caprese salad, perfect for parties.
Gnocchi
Potato gnocchi with a simple tomato sauce – surprisingly easy to make from scratch.
Risotto Milanese
Saffron-infused risotto – a classic with a surprisingly simple method.
Tiramisu
A simplified version of this classic dessert, still packed with flavor.
Cannoli
Store-bought shells filled with a simple ricotta filling.
Biscotti
Twice-baked cookies, perfect for dipping in coffee.
Lemon Sorbet
A refreshing and easy dessert.
Pasta Fagioli
Pasta and bean soup, hearty and comforting.
Pizza Rolls
Homemade pizza dough rolled up and baked.
Lasagna
A simplified lasagna with fewer layers, still bursting with flavor.
Chicken Cacciatore
Chicken simmered in a rich tomato sauce with vegetables.
Osso Buco
A simplified version of this classic veal dish, using readily available ingredients.
Panettone
Store-bought panettone for an easy and delicious treat.
