17 Italian dishes that taste like nonna’s

There’s nothing quite like the taste of authentic Italian cuisine, especially when it reminds you of Nonna’s cooking. These 17 Italian dishes capture the heart and soul of traditional flavors, bringing the warmth and comfort of Italy right to your table. Each dish is crafted to evoke the memories of family gatherings and home-cooked meals that are full of love. Share the joy of traditional Italian cooking and create new memories around the table with these timeless dishes.

Tortilla Pizza

Each bite of this pizza delivers a crunch and burst of flavor, reminiscent of thin-crust pizzas from quaint Italian cafés. Tortilla Pizza is a clever and quick twist on classic Italian pizza. Using a tortilla as the base allows for a super crisp finish that serves as the perfect foundation for your favorite toppings.
Get the Recipe: Tortilla Pizza

Spaghetti Marinara

Spaghetti Marinara is a staple that epitomizes the simplicity and elegance of Italian cooking. The dish features spaghetti enveloped in a rich, tomato-based sauce that is both vibrant and comforting. It’s a recipe that brings the taste of Italy to your table with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara

Caprese Appetizer

This dish is a beautiful start to any meal, showcasing the colors of the Italian flag and the freshness of its ingredients. Caprese Appetizer is the essence of Italian simplicity, combining fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil. Each bite is a blend of flavors that are both refreshing and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer

Best Lemon Pasta

Serve this pasta when you want to impress with minimal effort. Best Lemon Pasta offers a zesty and creamy flavor profile that is irresistibly refreshing. This dish combines the tang of fresh lemon with the richness of cream, coating the pasta perfectly. It’s a perfect meal that’s light yet satisfying, ideal for spring or summer dining.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

Asparagus and White Bean Risotto

Asparagus and White Bean Risotto is a hearty and creamy dish that brings together tender asparagus and protein-rich white beans. This risotto is cooked slowly, allowing each grain of rice to absorb the flavors and achieve a creamy consistency without cream. It’s a luxurious yet comforting dish that’s perfect for a more sophisticated dinner.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus and White Bean Risotto

Neapolitan Pizza

For an authentic experience, this pizza is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven and shared among friends and family. Neapolitan Pizza has a charred and bubbly crust that is soft yet crisp, achieved by cooking at high temperatures. It’s a culinary icon that represents the heart of Italian pizza-making.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza

Garlic Aioli

This aioli is perfect as a spread on sandwiches or as a dip for vegetables and seafood. Garlic Aioli is a versatile Italian condiment that enhances any dish with its rich, creamy texture and robust garlic flavor. It’s a simple addition that upgrades meals with a touch of Mediterranean flair. Its bold flavor is both memorable and delicious, making it a must-try for garlic lovers.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Aioli

Pizza Bagels

Pizza Bagels bring a fun and casual twist to traditional Italian pizza. They are a fantastic option for quick snacks or meals, allowing for endless customization with various toppings. This version marries the chewy texture of bagels with the savory goodness of pizza. It’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Bagels

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

This dish is a staple in Italian cuisine, beloved for its rich flavors and satisfying nature. Each layer of Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna is seasoned perfectly, creating a blend of flavors that melt in your mouth. This lasagna is ideal for feeding a crowd, offering a vegetarian option that doesn’t skimp on taste or heartiness.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

Penne Alla Vodka

Penne Alla Vodka is a classic Italian pasta dish that offers a rich, creamy tomato sauce with just the right amount of vodka to enhance the flavors. This dish is perfect for a comforting dinner that feels both luxurious and homely. Serve this pasta on a chilly evening to warm up the room and your spirits.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

Caprese Pesto Tarts

These tarts are sure to impress at any gathering. Caprese Pesto Tarts combine the fresh flavors of a classic Caprese salad with the rich, savory depth of pesto on a flaky tart base. These tarts are perfect for appetizers or a light meal, offering a delicious taste of Italy in every bite. They’re easy to make and even easier to love.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts

Veggie Pizza

Veggie Pizza is a vibrant and healthy option that brings the garden to your table. Topped with a variety of fresh vegetables, this pizza is a colorful feast for the eyes and the palate. It’s perfect for those who want a lighter, plant-based option without sacrificing taste. Serve this pizza and watch it become a new favorite among friends and family.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pizza

Caprese Skewers

These skewers encapsulate the fresh and straightforward elegance of Italian cuisine. Caprese Skewers are a delightful and simple way to enjoy the flavors of a traditional Caprese salad but on a stick. They’re perfect for parties as a portable, mess-free appetizer. They’re a hit at any social gathering, offering a taste of Italy in one bite.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Skewers

Italian Dressing

Made with a blend of herbs, Italian Dressing is a staple in Italian kitchens. It’s versatile enough to be used as a marinade or a simple dressing. The flavors are bold and vibrant, making it a great addition to your culinary arsenal. Try this dressing and give your salads a delicious, Italian-inspired twist.
Get the Recipe: Italian Dressing

Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta

Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta is a sumptuous and hearty dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The sauce is rich with roasted red peppers blended into a smooth, creamy base that clings to every strand of pasta. It’s a modern twist on traditional Italian ingredients, offering a comforting meal that’s also plant-based.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta

Arrabiata Sauce

Pair it with your favorite pasta for an easy meal. Arrabiata Sauce is a fiery tomato sauce with a spicy kick, perfect for those who like a little heat with their pasta. This sauce is made with crushed red pepper and garlic, simmered to develop depth and richness. This sauce is guaranteed to bring a lively flavor to your table.
Get the Recipe: Arrabiata Sauce

Easy Caprese Salad

Easy Caprese Salad is the epitome of simplicity and flavor. It embodies the fresh, vibrant flavors of Italian cuisine. Perfect for a light lunch or as part of a bigger feast. It’s a classic dish that’s always a hit, making it a must-have recipe for any Italian food lover.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad