14 Italian Dishes Everyone Should Know

Italian cuisine embodies a philosophy that cherishes fresh, high-quality ingredients prepared with passion and skill. It is known worldwide for its rich flavors, regional diversity, and centuries-old culinary traditions. Italian dishes are marked by their authenticity, simplicity, and sheer deliciousness. Here are some Italian dishes that everyone should know.

Margherita Pizza

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Margherita Pizza features a topping of tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. To make it, spread tomato sauce on pizza dough, add slices of mozzarella, and bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly. Top with fresh basil leaves before serving. A classic that showcases the beauty of simplicity.

Risotto alla Milanese

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Risotto alla Milanese is flavored with saffron. Sauté onions in butter, add Arborio rice, and gradually stir in hot chicken broth, cooking until the rice is creamy. Finish with a pinch of saffron threads and Parmesan cheese. A luxurious risotto with a golden hue.

Tiramisu

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Tiramisu layers coffee-soaked ladyfingers with mascarpone cheese and cocoa powder. Mix mascarpone with egg yolks and sugar, then layer with coffee-dipped ladyfingers. Refrigerate and dust with cocoa powder before serving. A dessert that’s both creamy and caffeinated.

Panzanella

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Panzanella is a Tuscan bread salad made with stale bread, tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. Toss cubes of stale bread with diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and onions. Dress with olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper, and let sit to allow flavors to meld. This is a refreshing way to use up leftover bread.

Osso Buco

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Osso Buco features braised veal shanks cooked with white wine, broth, and vegetables. Brown veal shanks, then simmer with onions, carrots, celery, white wine, and broth until tender. Serve with gremolata on top. A rich, meaty dish with a touch of brightness.

Caprese Salad

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Caprese Salad combines ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil. Slice tomatoes and mozzarella, then layer them with basil leaves. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar before serving. A vibrant and fresh Italian classic.

Arancini

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Arancini are Sicilian rice balls stuffed with meat or cheese. Prepare risotto, cool it, then form into balls with a filling. Bread and fry until golden and crispy. Crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside.

Gnocchi

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Gnocchi are soft potato dumplings. Mix cooked, mashed potatoes with flour and an egg, then form into small dumplings. Boil until they float, then serve with your choice of sauce. Tender dumplings that melt in your mouth.

Cannoli

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Cannoli are fried pastry shells filled with sweet ricotta cheese. Mix ricotta with powdered sugar and vanilla, then pipe into crispy pastry shells. Garnish with chocolate chips or candied fruit. A sweet and crispy Italian treat.

Prosciutto e Melone

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Prosciutto e Melone pairs thin slices of cured ham with sweet melon. Simply slice cantaloupe and wrap with prosciutto for a refreshing appetizer. A classic Italian appetizer that’s light and flavorful.

Vitello Tonnato

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Vitello Tonnato features cold veal with a tuna sauce. Cook veal and let it cool, then slice thinly. Blend tuna, capers, and anchovies with mayonnaise and spread over the veal slices. An elegant dish with a unique flavor combination.

Ribollita

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Ribollita is a Tuscan bread and bean soup. Sauté vegetables, add beans and broth, and simmer. Stir in cubes of stale bread and cook until the bread is softened and the soup is thick. A hearty soup that’s perfect for colder weather.

Polenta

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Polenta is made from boiled cornmeal. Cook cornmeal with water or broth until thickened. Serve creamy or allow to set, then grill or fry. Pair with meats or sauces. Versatile and comforting, suitable for many dishes.

Frittata

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Frittata is a baked egg dish with various ingredients. Whisk eggs with salt and pepper, then mix in vegetables, meats, and cheeses. Pour into a skillet and cook on the stove, then bake until set. A flexible dish perfect for any meal of the day.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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