20 Italian Christmas Dinner Ideas & Recipes

Christmas is a time for joy, celebration, and, of course, good food! Italian cuisine has a long tradition of delicious holiday dishes that are perfect for bringing family and friends together.

In this article, we will explore 20 Italian Christmas dinner ideas that are sure to impress your guests.

Lasagna

Lasagna is a classic Italian dish that is perfect for any occasion, including Christmas dinner.

This hearty and flavorful dish is made with layers of pasta, meat sauce, and cheese, and is often baked in the oven until bubbly and golden brown.

To make lasagna for your Christmas dinner, start by preparing your meat sauce. You can use ground beef, Italian sausage, or a combination of both, and season it with garlic, onion, and Italian herbs. Add canned tomatoes and tomato paste to the sauce, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

While the sauce is simmering, cook your lasagna noodles according to the package instructions, and drain them once they are al dente. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

To assemble your lasagna, start by spreading a layer of the meat sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish. Top the sauce with a layer of cooked lasagna noodles, followed by a layer of ricotta cheese and shredded mozzarella. Repeat this process, alternating layers of meat sauce, noodles, and cheese, until you have used up all of your ingredients.

Once your lasagna is assembled, cover it with aluminum foil and bake it in the oven for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown.

Let your lasagna cool for a few minutes before serving, and garnish with chopped parsley or basil if desired.

Your guests will love this delicious and comforting Italian dish, and it is sure to become a new Christmas tradition in your family.

Roast Beef

Roast beef is a classic holiday dish that is perfect for Christmas dinner.

It is a hearty and satisfying dish that can be served with a variety of sides and sauces.

Here’s how to make a delicious and tender roast beef for your Christmas feast.

Ingredients:

  • 3-4 lb beef roast (such as top round or sirloin)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp kosher salt
  • 1 tbsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup beef broth

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, and minced garlic to create a paste.
  3. Pat the beef roast dry with paper towels, then rub the herb paste all over the roast.
  4. Place the roast in a roasting pan with a rack, then pour the beef broth into the bottom of the pan.
  5. Roast the beef for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the roast reads 130°F for medium-rare or 140°F for medium.
  6. Once the roast is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the oven and cover it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
  7. Slice the roast beef thinly and serve it with your favorite sides and sauces, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or horseradish sauce.

Roast beef is a delicious and impressive dish that is sure to be a hit at your Christmas dinner.

With a little bit of seasoning and a few hours in the oven, you can create a juicy and flavorful roast that your family and friends will love.

Risotto

Risotto is a creamy and comforting Italian dish that is perfect for Christmas dinner.

It is a versatile dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients, such as mushrooms, seafood, or vegetables, and can be customized to suit your tastes.

Here’s how to make a delicious and easy risotto for your holiday meal.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups arborio rice
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • Salt and pepper
  • Optional ingredients: mushrooms, shrimp, asparagus, peas, or other vegetables

Instructions:

  1. In a large saucepan, heat the chicken or vegetable broth over medium heat until it comes to a simmer. Keep the broth warm on low heat.
  2. In a separate large pot, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the arborio rice to the pot and stir until the grains are coated in butter and slightly toasted, about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Add the dry white wine to the pot and stir until the liquid has been absorbed by the rice.
  5. Begin adding the warm broth to the pot, one cup at a time, stirring constantly and allowing the liquid to be absorbed before adding the next cup. This process should take about 20-30 minutes, and the rice should be creamy and tender when done.
  6. If using optional ingredients such as mushrooms or shrimp, add them to the pot during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking.
  7. Once the risotto is cooked to your desired consistency, remove the pot from the heat and stir in the grated parmesan cheese and remaining 2 tbsp of butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Serve the risotto immediately, garnished with additional parmesan cheese and chopped herbs if desired.

Risotto is a delicious and impressive dish that is perfect for Christmas dinner.

It is easy to customize and can be made with a variety of ingredients, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing option.

With a little bit of patience and attention, you can create a creamy and flavorful risotto that your guests will love.

Parmigiana

Parmigiana, or eggplant parmesan, is a classic Italian dish that is perfect for a comforting and hearty Christmas dinner.

It is a baked dish made with layers of fried eggplant, tomato sauce, and mozzarella cheese, and is topped with parmesan cheese.

Here’s how to make a delicious and satisfying Parmigiana for your holiday meal.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4 inch rounds
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 4 eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 1 jar of tomato sauce
  • 1 lb fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper
  • Olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
  2. Salt the eggplant slices and let them sit for 30 minutes to remove excess moisture. Rinse the eggplant and pat dry with paper towels.
  3. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs.
  4. Dredge each eggplant slice in the flour, then dip it in the egg mixture, and finally coat it in breadcrumbs. Repeat with the remaining eggplant slices.
  5. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add enough olive oil to cover the bottom of the pan. Fry the eggplant slices in batches until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer the eggplant slices to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
  6. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of tomato sauce on the bottom. Arrange a layer of fried eggplant slices on top of the sauce, then cover with a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat with another layer of sauce, eggplant slices, and mozzarella cheese until you have used up all the ingredients.
  7. Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the top of the dish.
  8. Bake the Parmigiana in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the dish is heated through.
  9. Allow the Parmigiana to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Parmigiana is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for Christmas dinner. It can be made ahead of time and reheated for convenience, and can be served with a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a complete meal. With its layers of crispy fried eggplant and melted cheese, Parmigiana is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your holiday table.

Capon

Capon is a traditional Italian Christmas dish that consists of a large, castrated rooster that is typically stuffed, roasted, and served with a flavorful sauce.

Capon is a delicious and impressive main dish that is sure to impress your guests at your holiday table.

Here’s how to make a classic capon for your Christmas dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 1 large capon (8-10 lbs)
  • 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper
  • Olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 4 cups chicken broth

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the sausage, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, eggs, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  3. Stuff the capon with the sausage mixture, using your hands to distribute the stuffing evenly throughout the bird.
  4. Rub the capon with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
  5. Place the capon in a roasting pan and add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pan.
  6. Roast the capon in the preheated oven for 2-3 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the pan juices. The capon is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the skin is golden brown and crispy.
  7. Transfer the capon to a serving platter and cover with foil to keep warm.
  8. Place the roasting pan over medium heat and add the white wine, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  9. Add the chicken broth to the pan and bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  10. Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh strainer and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  11. Serve the capon with the sauce on the side.

Capon is a delicious and impressive Christmas dish that is sure to impress your guests.

With its flavorful stuffing, crispy skin, and rich sauce, capon is a true showstopper. While it does take some time and effort to prepare, the end result is well worth it.

Serve your capon with a side of roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete holiday meal.

Ravioli

Ravioli is a classic Italian pasta dish that is perfect for a cozy Christmas dinner.

Ravioli is typically made by filling small pasta pouches with a variety of ingredients such as cheese, meat, vegetables, or a combination of these.

Ravioli can be served with a simple tomato sauce or a more complex sauce, such as a creamy Alfredo sauce or a rich meat sauce.

Here’s how to make delicious ravioli for your Christmas dinner.

Ingredients: For the pasta dough:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 tsp salt

For the filling:

  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 egg

For the sauce:

  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper
  • Fresh basil leaves

Instructions:

  1. Make the pasta dough: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the eggs. Using a fork, gradually incorporate the flour into the eggs until a dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Cover with plastic wrap and let rest for 30 minutes.
  2. Make the filling: In a mixing bowl, stir together the ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and egg until well combined.
  3. Roll out the pasta dough into thin sheets using a pasta roller or rolling pin. Cut the pasta into small circles using a biscuit cutter or a ravioli cutter.
  4. Spoon a small amount of the filling onto one circle of pasta, leaving a small border around the edge. Place another circle of pasta on top and press down gently around the filling to seal the ravioli. Repeat with the remaining pasta and filling.
  5. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the ravioli and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the filling is hot.
  6. While the ravioli is cooking, make the sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Add the crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Let simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
  7. Drain the ravioli and serve with the tomato sauce. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.

Ravioli is a comforting and satisfying pasta dish that is perfect for a cozy Christmas dinner.

While it may take some time and effort to make the pasta and the filling from scratch, the end result is well worth it.

Serve your ravioli with a side of garlic bread and a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Stuffed Turkey

Stuffed turkey is a classic dish for a traditional Italian Christmas dinner.

It’s a hearty and flavorful main course that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.

Here’s how to make a delicious stuffed turkey for your Christmas dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 1 whole turkey (12-15 pounds)
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh sage
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh rosemary
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh thyme
  • Salt and pepper
  • Olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  2. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked vegetables, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, chicken broth, parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
  4. Rinse the turkey and pat dry with paper towels. Remove the giblets and neck from the cavity.
  5. Fill the turkey cavity with the stuffing mixture, packing it in tightly but not overfilling.
  6. Tie the turkey legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wings under the body.
  7. Rub the turkey all over with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
  8. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast in the preheated oven for 3-4 hours, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the turkey reads 165°F.
  9. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving and serving.

Stuffed turkey is a classic and delicious dish that’s perfect for a traditional Italian Christmas dinner.

It’s important to make sure the stuffing reaches a safe temperature of 165°F to prevent any foodborne illness.

Serve your stuffed turkey with a variety of sides such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and gravy for a complete holiday feast.

Cotechino

Cotechino is a type of Italian sausage that is typically served during the holiday season, especially for Christmas and New Year’s Eve.

It’s a rich, flavorful sausage made with pork, spices, and sometimes wine.

Here’s how to prepare and serve cotechino for your holiday dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cotechino sausage (approximately 1 pound)
  • 2 cups water
  • 1/4 cup white wine
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 clove garlic, peeled
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the cotechino sausage with cold water and prick the skin all over with a fork to prevent it from bursting during cooking.
  2. In a large pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the bay leaf, garlic, and cotechino sausage to the pot.
  3. Lower the heat to medium-low and let the sausage simmer in the pot for approximately 2 hours or until fully cooked.
  4. Add the white wine to the pot and continue to cook the sausage for an additional 15-20 minutes to allow the wine to infuse the sausage with flavor.
  5. Remove the sausage from the pot and let it cool for a few minutes.
  6. Slice the cotechino into thick rounds and arrange on a serving platter.
  7. Drizzle olive oil over the sliced sausage and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Serve the cotechino with a side of lentils or mashed potatoes, which are classic pairings with this dish.

Cotechino is a hearty and flavorful sausage that is perfect for a festive holiday meal.

It’s important to make sure that the sausage is fully cooked before serving to ensure food safety.

Serve with a side of lentils or mashed potatoes, which are classic pairings with this dish. Buon appetito!

Cannelloni

Cannelloni is a classic Italian pasta dish that is perfect for a festive Christmas dinner.

It’s a stuffed pasta dish that is usually filled with a mixture of meat, cheese, and vegetables, then baked in a rich tomato sauce.

Here’s how to make this delicious dish at home.

Ingredients:

  • 12-14 cannelloni pasta tubes
  • 1 lb. ground beef or pork
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup red wine
  • 1 tsp. dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp. dried basil
  • Salt and pepper
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  2. Cook the cannelloni pasta tubes according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, cook the ground meat over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
  4. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Add the crushed tomatoes, red wine, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer the sauce for 20-25 minutes or until thickened.
  6. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  7. Spoon the cheese mixture into a piping bag and fill the cannelloni tubes with the cheese mixture.
  8. Pour half of the tomato sauce into a large baking dish.
  9. Arrange the filled cannelloni tubes in the dish and pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top.
  10. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the sauce.
  11. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
  12. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  13. Let the cannelloni cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cannelloni is a hearty and delicious pasta dish that is perfect for a festive Christmas dinner.

The filling can be customized with your favorite ingredients such as spinach, mushrooms, or sausage.

Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. Buon appetito!

Osso Buco

Osso Buco is a classic Italian dish that is perfect for a special holiday dinner.

It’s a rich and flavorful dish made with veal shanks that are braised in a tomato-based sauce with aromatic vegetables and herbs.

Here’s how to make Osso Buco at home.

Ingredients:

  • 4 veal shanks (approximately 2 lbs.)
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper
  • 3 tbsp. olive oil
  • 2 onions, finely chopped
  • 2 carrots, finely chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tsp. dried thyme
  • 1 tsp. dried rosemary
  • 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes
  • Gremolata for serving (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  2. Season the veal shanks with salt and pepper and dredge them in flour.
  3. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
  4. Add the veal shanks to the pot and brown them on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the veal from the pot and set it aside.
  5. Add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, white wine, bay leaf, thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Stir to combine.
  7. Return the veal shanks to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
  8. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the oven. Bake for 2-2 1/2 hours or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
  9. Remove the pot from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
  10. Serve the Osso Buco with a side of risotto or mashed potatoes and sprinkle with gremolata, if desired.

Osso Buco is a flavorful and comforting dish that is perfect for a special holiday dinner.

The combination of tender veal shanks and aromatic tomato-based sauce makes this dish a crowd-pleaser.

Serve with a side of risotto or mashed potatoes and sprinkle with gremolata, if desired. Buon appetito!

Baccalà

Baccalà, or salted cod, is a traditional Italian dish that is often served during the Christmas holidays.

The salted cod is soaked in water for several days to remove the excess salt, then cooked with garlic, tomatoes, and herbs to create a flavorful and hearty dish.

Here’s how to make baccalà at home.

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb. salted cod, soaked in water for 3-4 days, changing the water every 8 hours
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup white wine
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1 tbsp. dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley for serving (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  2. Drain the soaked cod and pat it dry with paper towels.
  3. Dredge the cod in flour, shaking off any excess.
  4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  5. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  6. Add the crushed tomatoes, white wine, and oregano to the skillet and stir to combine.
  7. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Add the cod to the skillet and spoon the tomato mixture over the top.
  9. Cover the skillet with a lid and transfer it to the oven. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cod is cooked through and flaky.
  10. Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
  11. Serve the baccalà with a sprinkle of chopped parsley, if desired.

Baccalà is a flavorful and hearty dish that is perfect for a special holiday dinner.

The salted cod is soaked to remove the excess salt, then cooked with garlic, tomatoes, and herbs to create a delicious and satisfying meal.

Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or crusty bread for a complete meal. Buon appetito!

Pizza

Pizza is a popular dish consisting of a round, flattened base of dough that is topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various other ingredients such as meats, vegetables, and herbs.

It is typically baked in an oven at a high temperature until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted.

The origins of pizza can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as the Greeks, Egyptians, and Romans, who all had their own versions of flatbreads topped with herbs, spices, and other ingredients.

However, the modern pizza as we know it today is said to have originated in Naples, Italy in the 18th century.

Pizza has become a popular food around the world, with many different variations and styles depending on the region and culture.

In addition to traditional toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, and onions, there are now many creative and unique toppings like pineapple, barbecue sauce, and even chocolate.

Pizza can be enjoyed in many different settings, from casual takeout joints and food trucks to fine dining restaurants.

It is often served with a side of garlic bread or a salad, and can be accompanied by a variety of beverages such as beer, soda, or wine.

Focaccia

Focaccia is a type of Italian flatbread that is similar in appearance to pizza.

It is typically made with flour, water, yeast, olive oil, and salt, and is often topped with various herbs, vegetables, and spices.

The dough for focaccia is typically quite soft and wet, which gives it a fluffy texture and a slightly chewy crust.

After the dough has been allowed to rise, it is spread out on a baking sheet or in a baking pan, then dimpled with the fingers to create small pockets in the dough.

Focaccia can be topped with a wide variety of ingredients, including garlic, rosemary, olives, tomatoes, cheese, and more.

Some versions of focaccia may also be stuffed with cheese or other fillings.

Focaccia is often served as an appetizer or a side dish, and is sometimes used as a base for sandwiches.

It is a popular food in Italy and is also enjoyed in many other parts of the world.

Tiramisu

Tiramisu is a popular Italian dessert that is made with ladyfingers dipped in coffee or espresso, layered with a mixture of mascarpone cheese, sugar, and egg yolks, and then dusted with cocoa powder.

The ladyfingers used in tiramisu are light and sponge-like, and are often soaked in a mixture of espresso and sometimes a liqueur such as Marsala or Amaretto, which gives the dessert its distinctive flavor.

The mascarpone cheese filling is rich and creamy, and is made by whisking together mascarpone cheese, sugar, and egg yolks until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Tiramisu is typically assembled in layers in a large dish, with the soaked ladyfingers forming the base and the mascarpone mixture forming the layers in between.

The dessert is then chilled in the refrigerator for several hours to allow the flavors to meld together.

Tiramisu is a popular dessert in Italy and is enjoyed in many other parts of the world as well.

It is often served at special occasions such as weddings and birthdays, and is a favorite among coffee lovers and dessert enthusiasts alike.

Panettone

Panettone is a type of Italian sweet bread that is traditionally eaten during the Christmas season.

It is a tall, dome-shaped bread that is typically made with flour, sugar, eggs, butter, and candied fruits, such as orange peel and citron.

The dough for panettone is quite rich and is usually allowed to rise three times, which gives it a light and airy texture.

The candied fruits and other flavorings are added to the dough before the final rise.

Panettone is typically baked in a tall, cylindrical mold, which gives it its distinctive shape.

The top of the bread is usually decorated with a cross-shaped cut, which helps to ensure even baking and also gives it a traditional look.

Panettone is often served sliced, either on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone cheese. It is also sometimes toasted or used in other desserts, such as trifle or bread pudding.

Panettone is a beloved holiday tradition in Italy, and is enjoyed by people all around the world.

It is often given as a gift during the Christmas season, and many bakeries and food stores sell a variety of different flavors and styles of panettone.

Zeppole

Zeppole is a traditional Italian pastry that is typically made during the Christmas season or for special celebrations such as St. Joseph’s Day.

It is a fried dough pastry that can be served in a variety of different ways, depending on the region and the occasion.

The dough for zeppole is made with flour, eggs, sugar, and yeast, and is often flavored with lemon zest or other ingredients.

The dough is then formed into small balls or rings and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Zeppole can be served plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or filled with a variety of different sweet fillings such as ricotta cheese, pastry cream, or chocolate.

In some parts of Italy, zeppole are also made with savory fillings, such as anchovies or tomato sauce.

In these cases, the dough may also be seasoned with herbs and spices to complement the filling.

Zeppole is a popular food in Italy and is enjoyed by people of all ages.

It is often served at street fairs and festivals, as well as in bakeries and cafes throughout the country.

Pannetone Bread Pudding

Pannetone bread pudding is a delicious dessert that combines two popular Italian treats: panettone and bread pudding.

It is a rich and decadent dessert that is perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion.

To make pannetone bread pudding, you will need to start with a panettone that is a few days old.

This allows the bread to dry out slightly, which will help it absorb the custard mixture.

To prepare the custard, you will need eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.

Whisk these ingredients together until they are well combined.

Next, cut the panettone into cubes and place them in a baking dish.

Pour the custard mixture over the bread, making sure that all of the bread is well coated.

Let the bread soak in the custard for at least 30 minutes, or until the custard is fully absorbed.

Bake the bread pudding in a preheated oven at 350°F for 45-50 minutes, or until it is golden brown and set in the middle.

Serve the bread pudding warm, dusted with powdered sugar or drizzled with a sweet sauce such as caramel or chocolate.

Pannetone bread pudding is a delicious and indulgent dessert that is sure to impress your guests.

It combines the rich flavors of panettone with the comforting texture of bread pudding, making it the perfect dessert for any special occasion.

Zuppa Inglese

Zuppa Inglese is an Italian dessert that translates to “English soup”.

Despite its name, it is not a soup but rather a layered dessert similar to trifle.

It is made with layers of sponge cake or ladyfingers soaked in liqueur, pastry cream, and chocolate sauce.

The dessert is typically assembled in a glass bowl or trifle dish, with the sponge cake or ladyfingers forming the base layer.

The cake is then soaked in a mixture of liqueur, such as Alchermes, and sometimes rum or brandy. The pastry cream is then layered over the cake, followed by a layer of chocolate sauce.

The process is repeated until the dish is full, with the final layer typically being chocolate sauce.

Zuppa Inglese is typically served chilled, and is a popular dessert throughout Italy. It is often served on special occasions such as holidays and birthdays, and is a favorite among those who enjoy rich and indulgent desserts.

While the basic recipe for Zuppa Inglese typically includes sponge cake, pastry cream, and chocolate sauce, there are many variations that incorporate different flavors and ingredients.

For example, some recipes may use different types of liqueur or add fresh fruit to the dessert.

Regardless of the specific ingredients used, Zuppa Inglese is a delicious and decadent dessert that is sure to please any sweet tooth.

Spumoni

Spumoni is a traditional Italian dessert that is typically made with layers of different flavored ice cream, nuts, and candied fruits.

The ice cream is often molded into a shape such as a loaf or cake, and then sliced to serve.

Spumoni typically includes three different flavors of ice cream: chocolate, vanilla, and pistachio.

Other ingredients may include cherries, almonds, or hazelnuts, as well as candied orange peel or other fruits.

The dessert is often served with whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce.

In some cases, spumoni may also be served with a layer of cake or ladyfingers between the layers of ice cream.

Spumoni is a popular dessert in Italy and Italian-American communities, and is often served on special occasions such as holidays or family gatherings.

It is a delicious and refreshing dessert that is perfect for summertime, but can be enjoyed year-round.

Torrone

Torrone is a traditional Italian nougat candy that is often enjoyed during the Christmas season or other special occasions.

It is a sweet, chewy candy made with honey, sugar, egg whites, and toasted nuts such as almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios.

The candy is typically formed into a large block and then cut into smaller pieces for serving. It may also be coated in chocolate or dusted with powdered sugar.

There are many variations of torrone, depending on the region of Italy where it is made.

Some recipes may include additional ingredients such as candied fruit or spices, while others may use different types of nuts or honey.

Torrone has a long history in Italy, dating back to the 15th century. It is often associated with the town of Cremona, where it is a popular specialty.

Today, torrone is enjoyed throughout Italy and around the world, and is often given as a gift or used as a festive dessert.

15 Comments

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  4. […] a few simple tips, you can easily make this recipe at home and impress your dinner […]

  5. I love this article! It’s always a struggle to come up with new and exciting dinner ideas for the holidays, but these Italian Christmas dinner recipes have definitely given me some inspiration.

  6. The simplicity of the recipes is what makes them so appealing. It’s nice to have a fancy dinner, but sometimes the simpler dishes are the ones that stand out the most.

  7. I can’t wait to try the roasted garlic mashed potatoes. I’ve never thought to add roasted garlic to mashed potatoes before, but I can imagine it adds a ton of flavor.

  8. I am very inspired for next Christmas. Awesome recipes, thank you

  9. This chicken recipe for Christmas is great

  10. The stuffed artichokes recipe looks like a labor of love, but I can imagine the end result is worth all the effort.

  11. The seafood pasta dish looks so delicious. It’s perfect for those who don’t eat meat but still want a filling and satisfying meal.

  12. I appreciate that the recipes have different levels of difficulty. It’s nice to have some easier options for those busy holiday nights, but also some more complex dishes for when you have more time to prepare.

  13. The panettone bread pudding sounds like the perfect dessert to end a Christmas dinner. I can almost taste the warm and comforting flavors just by reading the recipe

  14. I love the addition of the Christmas caponata. It’s a unique and flavorful dish that I’ve never tried before, but I’m excited to give it a go.

  15. The article has given me some great ideas for a traditional Italian Christmas dinner, but I also appreciate that there are some dishes that have been given a modern twist.

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