15 Italian recipes that keep my family happy

Nothing brings a family together like a delicious meal, and these 15 Italian recipes are guaranteed to keep everyone happy. Each dish is bursting with rich flavors and comforting ingredients that make dinnertime special. They are ideal for creating memorable meals that will have your family asking for seconds. Enjoy the flavors of Italy and the happiness that comes with sharing great food together.

Tortilla Pizza

This version uses a tortilla as a thin and crispy base, allowing for a crunch that pleases everyone. Tortilla Pizza is a quick and customizable dish that brings the fun of pizza night to the table without the fuss. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight when time is short but the craving for pizza is strong.
Get the Recipe: Tortilla Pizza

Macaroni Salad

Macaroni Salad is a twist on traditional Italian pasta dishes, offering a cold pasta option that’s perfect for picnics and potlucks. This salad mixes macaroni with a variety of vegetables and a creamy dressing, making it a flavorful and refreshing choice. It’s a favorite for its ease of preparation and the ability to make it ahead of time.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

Caprese Appetizer

Caprese Appetizer is a perfect introduction to any meal. This simple dish highlights quality ingredients and pairs perfectly with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flavor. It’s not only beautiful to look at but also a burst of fresh Italian flavors in every bite. The freshness of the ingredients is key to its success.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer

Pasta Primavera

This dish is beloved for its bright colors and nutrient-rich profile, making it both healthy and satisfying. Pasta Primavera brings a bounty of seasonal vegetables to the table, all tossed with pasta in a light and flavorful sauce. It’s a favorite for its ability to please both young and old alike.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

Olive Pizza

Olive Pizza caters to those who love a bit of a salty, tangy kick on their pizza. It’s a flavorful twist on the classic pizza that brings a bit of Mediterranean flair to the dinner table. Ideal for olive lovers, this pizza is a simple pleasure that brings smiles all around. It’s frequently requested for its bold flavors and satisfying texture.
Get the Recipe: Olive Pizza

Spaghetti Marinara

Every plate of this spaghetti promises a satisfying and heartwarming meal. Spaghetti Marinara is a timeless classic that keeps my family coming back for more. This dish features spaghetti covered in a rich tomato sauce that’s both vibrant and comforting. Perfect for a family dinner, it pairs well with a side salad and garlic bread.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara

Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto

This combination creates a sweet and savory profile that’s irresistible. Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto is a creamy and comforting dish that introduces sweet corn and tender leeks into the classic risotto. It’s a perfect choice for those cooler evenings when you want something warming and filling.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto

Neapolitan Pizza

Neapolitan Pizza is a staple in our household for its straightforward and traditional preparation that transports us to Naples with each bite. It’s baked at a high temperature for a short time, resulting in a soft, elastic crust and perfectly melted cheese. This pizza is perfect for family movie nights or as a treat at the end of the week.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza

Caprese Skewers

Easy to assemble and fun to eat, these skewers are a hit at any family event. Caprese Skewers are a perfect example of simple ingredients coming together to create something wonderfully satisfying. They’re ideal for gatherings, offering a burst of flavor in every bite. Their freshness and simplicity make them a beloved choice.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Skewers

Best Lemon Pasta

This dish is a favorite for its light yet indulgent flavor profile that appeals to all ages. Best Lemon Pasta is a dish that lights up the dinner table with its creamy sauce. It combines the tang of fresh lemons with the richness of cream, coating the pasta beautifully. Serve this dish for a meal that will keep everyone smiling.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

Basil Pesto

Basil Pesto is a versatile and vibrant addition to any Italian meal. This pesto is loved for its bright color and depth of flavor, offering a homemade touch to any dish. It’s a staple in Italian cooking that brings a piece of summer to the table year-round. Whether spread on sandwiches or stirred into spaghetti, this dish is a delight.
Get the Recipe: Basil Pesto

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

This lasagna is a comforting meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as a family dinner. Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna is a staple at family gatherings, loved for its familiar yet flavorful profile. The combination of creamy ricotta and nutritious spinach makes it a healthful option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

Garlic Aioli

Garlic Aioli is a creamy and garlicky sauce that serves as a delicious accompaniment to many Italian dishes. This aioli is perfect for dipping, spreading, or drizzling over vegetables and meats. It’s incredibly easy to whip up and can level up any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. It’s a simple way to add a gourmet touch to your meals.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Aioli

Mushroom Risotto

This dish is a testament to the depth of flavor that Italian cuisine can offer, making it a family favorite. Mushroom Risotto is a classic Italian dish known for its creamy texture and rich flavor. It’s a labor of love that pays off with every delicious spoonful. Often served as a comforting main dish, this risotto is perfect for a cozy night in.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Risotto

Caprese Pesto Tarts

Caprese Pesto Tarts are a perfect blend of classic Italian flavors baked into a perfect pastry shell. These tarts combine the fresh taste of a Caprese salad with the rich, herby notes of pesto in a flaky crust. They’re excellent for appetizers, brunch, or a light meal. They’re a favorite for their delicious combination and charming presentation.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts