Italian Dinners that Aren’t Spaghetti
In the mood for good Italian food? While spaghetti is a mainstay for most American homes, it’s not by any means the only option for easy weeknight Italian dinners. Looking to bring something deliciously Italian to your table this week? Try one of these ideas:
Scampi
Once you learn to make a simple scampi, you’ll find the recipe will make its way into your regular recipe rotation. The basics of a scampi are simple. It’s a very minimalist sauce made from butter, garlic, and white wine if you’re so inclined. Scampi’s are typically served over linguini. Chicken scampi is a favorite, but so is shrimp scampi. You can find a number of wonderful shrimp scampi recipes online, as well as frozen prepared scampi’s that cook up in a flash. This is definitely a meal that packs a big punch; it feels special without being extra work.
Pasta Primavera
This is another fabulous pasta dish that’s simple, elegant, and delicious. It’s traditionally served in spring when the first green spring veggies appear. The dish comes together quickly. Linguini pasta is cooked in boiling water. As the pasta progresses, spring vegetables are added in succession depending on cooking time. Recipes call for asparagus, zucchini, green peas, and bright red peppers, but you can certainly add your favorite as well. The cooked veggies and pasta are tossed in a light cream sauce and topped with parmesan cheese. So, so good.
Baked Ziti
Searching the internet reveals many recipes for this Italian classic. It’s often cooked in one pot in less than 45 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner. You’ll start by browning some savory Italian sausage – mild or spicy, your choice. Stir in water and tomatoes and bring to a boil. Add your ziti pasta and cook until the water is absorbed and the pasta is cooked. Stir in cream and parmesan cheese and top with a healthy dose of creamy mozzarella. Pop it in the oven at a super-high temperature and cook for 10 minutes or so until the cheese is melty and browned. Serve your family this mouthwatering dish, and everyone at the table will clamor for more.
Eat Italian. Eat In.
There’s no need to put on pants and spend big money to eat Italian. Italian cooks want easy meals to feed their families just as much as Americans do, so you’ve got plenty of choices for interesting meals that go beyond spaghetti. Try one of these easy Italian dishes this week and make pasta night a new family tradition.
