15 Italian-Inspired Pantry Recipes Using What You Have
15 Italian-Inspired Pantry Recipes Using What You Have
Craving the comforting flavors of Italy but short on fresh ingredients? No problem! Our Italian-inspired pantry recipes are here to prove that you don't need a trip to the market—or to Rome—to whip up something delicious. With a handful of simple, shelf-stable staples like pasta, canned tomatoes, olive oil, and herbs, you can create mouthwatering meals the whole family will love.
1. Cacio e Pepe
Cacio e Pepe is a simple yet delicious Roman pasta dish made with just four ingredients: pasta, butter, Pecorino Romano cheese, and freshly cracked black pepper. Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, it’s comfort food at its finest—no frills, just pure pasta perfection!
2. Risotto Milanese
Risotto Milanese is a rich and creamy Italian classic, known for its golden hue from fragrant saffron. Cooked slowly with arborio rice, butter, white wine, and Parmesan, it's a comforting dish that brings a touch of elegance to every bite. Perfect on its own or as a side to your favorite Milanese dishes!
3. Spaghetti all’Assassina
Spaghetti all’Assassina is a bold and crispy pasta dish from Bari, Italy, where spaghetti is pan-fried in a spicy tomato sauce until it caramelizes and gets delightfully crunchy. It’s fiery, flavorful, and perfect for those who love their pasta with a little attitude!
4. Linguine with White Clam Sauce
Twirl into deliciousness with our Linguine with White Clam Sauce! Tender linguine is tossed in a savory garlic, clam and white wine sauce, and finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It’s a simple, satisfying classic that brings the taste of the coast to your plate.
5. Tomato Paste Pasta Sauce
Whip up a quick and tasty meal with our tomato paste pasta sauce! Rich, tangy, and full of bold tomato flavor, it’s the perfect base for your favorite pasta dishes. Just add your favorite herbs, veggies, or meats, and you’ve got dinner in no time!
6. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a simple yet delicious Italian classic made with spaghetti, garlic, olive oil, and a touch of red pepper flakes. It's quick to whip up and packed with bold, comforting flavors—perfect for a cozy night in, an easy weeknight dinner, or a quick midnight snack!
7. Pasta Puttanesca
Pasta Puttanesca is a bold and zesty Italian classic, packed with flavors from olives, capers, garlic, and anchovies, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce. It's quick to make, full of personality, and perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner!
8. Toasted Basil Pesto Gnocchi
Golden, pillowy gnocchi tossed in a rich, garlicky basil pesto and lightly toasted for that perfect crisp bite. This cozy, flavor-packed dish is comfort food with a fresh, herby twist!
9. Simple Polenta with Sauce and Cheese
Creamy, comforting, and full of flavor—this simple polenta is topped with a rich tomato sauce and melted cheese for a cozy, satisfying dish that’s perfect any day of the week.
10. Antipasto Pasta
This Antipasto Pasta is a fun, flavor-packed twist on your favorite Italian appetizer! Loaded with savory meats, tangy olives, crisp veggies, and a zesty dressing, it’s the perfect dish for picnics, potlucks, or an easy weeknight dinner.
11. Tomato Bruschetta Pasta
This Tomato Bruschetta Pasta is a fresh and flavorful twist on a classic favorite! Simply cook the pasta, open the jar of tomata bruschetta and toss together to create a light, zesty sauce that’s perfect for tossing with your favorite pasta. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with summer vibes in every bite!
12. Capellini with Tuna and Garlic Oil Sauce
Light, flavorful, and ready in minutes, this Capellini with Tuna and Garlic Sauce combines delicate pasta with savory tuna, sautéed garlic, and a hint of olive oil for a deliciously simple dish that's perfect for any night of the week.
13. Linguine with Olives, Breadcrumbs and Pesto Sauce
A simple pasta recipe that almost always hits the spot. With crispy breadcrumbs, creamy pesto and our buttery Castelvetrano olives, this linguini delivers a delicate balance of textures and flavors. Plus, this pesto pasta with olives recipe comes together in minutes, making it the perfect meal for busy nights.
14. Pasta with Tuna Sauce
A quick and tasty classic, this pasta with tuna sauce combines tender noodles with a savory mix of tuna, garlic, and tomatoes. It’s a comforting dish that’s simple to make and packed with flavor.