26 Romantic Italian Dinner Recipes for Valentine's Day You’ll Love

You're looking for a romantic Italian dinner to impress your loved one on Valentine's Day. You'll find 26 decadent recipes to choose from, including classic lasagna and seafood risotto. What will you cook?

1. Classic Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe

Rich and creamy, Spaghetti Carbonara is a classic Italian dish perfect for Valentine's Day.

Ingredients

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 4 oz pancetta or bacon
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook the pancetta or bacon over medium heat until crispy.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl with the egg mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add the cooked pancetta or bacon to the bowl and toss everything together.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

2. Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo for Two

Creamy fettuccine Alfredo recipe for a romantic dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup fettuccine pasta
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the garlic, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside, leaving the garlic and butter in the skillet.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer, cooking for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth, then add the basil, salt, and pepper.
7. Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to combine with the cream sauce.
8. Slice the cooked chicken and serve on top of the fettuccine, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

3. Easy Bruschetta With Fresh Tomatoes

Fresh tomatoes and basil create a delicious bruschetta.

Ingredients

• 4-6 baguette slices
• 1 large tomato, diced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup freshly grated mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the baguette into 1/2-inch thick rounds and place on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the baguette slices and sprinkle with minced garlic.
4. Bake the baguette slices in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
5. In a medium bowl, combine the diced tomato and chopped basil.
6. Remove the baguette slices from the oven and let cool for 1-2 minutes.
7. Rub the garlic cloves over the toasted baguette slices, then top with the tomato and basil mixture.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
9. Serve immediately and enjoy.

4. Seafood Risotto for a Romantic Evening

Indulge in a romantic seafood risotto with succulent shrimp and mussels.

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups fish broth, warmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, scallops)
• 1/4 cup white wine
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add the white wine and cook until the liquid is almost completely absorbed.
6. Add 1/2 cup of warmed fish broth to the rice and cook, stirring constantly, until the liquid is mostly absorbed.
7. Repeat step 6, adding the broth in 1/2 cup increments, until the rice is cooked and creamy.
8. Add the mixed seafood to the rice and cook until the seafood is opaque and cooked through.
9. Stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

5. Italian-Style Chicken Parmesan Recipe

Italian-Style Chicken Parmesan is a classic dish with crispy chicken and melted mozzarella.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the breading station with flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs.
3. Season the chicken with salt, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
4. Dip each chicken breast in the flour, then the eggs, and finally the breadcrumbs.
5. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet and fry the breaded chicken until golden brown.
6. Transfer the fried chicken to a baking dish and spoon marinara sauce over each breast.
7. Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the top of each chicken breast.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!

6. Homemade Ravioli With Cheese Filling

Homemade ravioli with cheese filling, a classic Italian dish perfect for Valentine's Day.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Combine flour, eggs, and salt to make the pasta dough.
2. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until it becomes smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 4 equal parts and roll out each part into a thin sheet.
4. Mix ricotta and Parmesan cheese for the filling.
5. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out circles of pasta dough.
6. Place a tablespoon of cheese filling in the center of each dough circle.
7. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape and press edges to seal.
8. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the ravioli for 3-5 minutes.
9. Serve the ravioli with your favorite sauce and garnish with chopped parsley.

7. Pan-Seared Scallops With Pesto Sauce

Pan-Seared Scallops With Pesto Sauce is a romantic Italian dish.

Ingredients

• 12 large scallops
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/3 cup pine nuts
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Rinse the scallops and pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Season the scallops with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the scallops and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side.
5. Remove the scallops from the skillet and set them aside.
6. In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic.
7. Process the mixture until it is well combined and slightly smooth.
8. Add the Parmesan cheese and process until the cheese is well combined.
9. With the processor running, slowly add the olive oil.
10. Return the skillet to medium heat and add the pesto sauce.
11. Simmer the pesto sauce for 2-3 minutes or until it is slightly thickened.
12. Return the scallops to the skillet and spoon the pesto sauce over them.
13. Serve the scallops hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.

8. Creamy Tomato Soup With Grilled Cheese

Creamy Tomato Soup With Grilled Cheese is a comforting Italian-inspired dish.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups grated mozzarella cheese
• 4 slices Italian bread
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until softened.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
3. Add chopped fresh tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the pot.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth.
6. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
7. Butter one side of each slice of Italian bread and place, butter-side down, in the grill.
8. Top each bread slice with grated mozzarella cheese and place another slice of bread, butter-side up, on top.
9. Grill the sandwiches until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
10. Serve the grilled cheese sandwiches with the creamy tomato soup.

9. Valentine's Day Lasagna Recipe

Classic layered lasagna for a romantic Valentine's Day dinner.

Ingredients

• 8 lasagna noodles
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
6. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper.
7. Spread a layer of the marinara sauce in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
8. Arrange 4 cooked lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
9. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the noodles.
10. Sprinkle with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and half of the grated Parmesan cheese.
11. Repeat the layers, starting with the noodles, then the marinara sauce, the remaining ricotta cheese mixture, and finally the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
12. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
13. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
14. Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

10. Baked Chicken Marsala With Mushrooms

Baked Chicken Marsala With Mushrooms is a romantic Italian dish perfect for Valentine's Day.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup Marsala wine
• 2 cups mixed mushrooms
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear chicken until browned.
4. Transfer chicken to a baking dish and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
6. Add mixed mushrooms and cook until tender.
7. Pour Marsala wine into the skillet and stir to combine.
8. Pour the mushroom and Marsala mixture over the chicken.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
10. Serve hot and enjoy.

11. Garlic Shrimp With Linguine and Herbs

Garlic shrimp with linguine and herbs is a romantic Italian dish perfect for Valentine's Day.

Ingredients

• 12 large shrimp
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup linguine
• 1/4 cup white wine
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and add the garlic, cooking for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and fully cooked.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside, then add the white wine to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits.
5. Stir in the parsley and basil, and cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce has slightly reduced.
6. Drain the cooked linguine and add it to the skillet, tossing to combine with the sauce.
7. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to combine with the linguine and sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

12. Authentic Italian Chicken Scarpariello

Authentic Italian Chicken Scarpariello is a classic dish with chicken, bell peppers, and onions.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
• 2 large bell peppers, sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup white wine
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute.
6. Add the white wine and chicken broth to the skillet and stir to scrape up any browned bits.
7. Return the chicken to the skillet and add the dried oregano.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, until the chicken is cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
10. Stir in the chopped parsley and serve hot.

13. Roasted Vegetable Pasta Bake

A hearty pasta bake filled with roasted vegetables and flavorful sauce.

Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes
• 1 cup sliced zucchini
• 1 cup sliced bell peppers
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup tomato sauce

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Toss cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
4. Roast the vegetables in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, and tomato sauce.
6. In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the pasta mixture.
7. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
8. Repeat the layers, starting with the remaining pasta mixture and topping with the remaining cheese.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Serve hot and enjoy.

14. Hearty Italian-Style Beef Stew Recipe

Hearty Italian-Style Beef Stew Recipe is a rich and flavorful dish perfect for Valentine's Day.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef stew meat
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1 large can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup red wine
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the carrots, potatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper.
6. Stir to combine, then add the red wine.
7. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2 1/2 hours.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs, if desired.

15. Creamy Asparagus and Chicken Fettuccine

Creamy Asparagus and Chicken Fettuccine is a romantic Italian dish.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 1 pound fresh asparagus
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup fettuccine pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the asparagus to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-5 minutes.
4. In a large saucepan, combine the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the cream mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Add the cooked fettuccine to the cream sauce and toss to combine.
7. Add the cooked chicken and asparagus to the fettuccine and toss to combine.
8. Serve the Creamy Asparagus and Chicken Fettuccine hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

16. Grilled Steak With Roasted Garlic Mashed

Tender steak paired with rich roasted garlic mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs steak
• 4 cloves of garlic
• 4 large potatoes
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/2 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat and season the steak with salt and pepper.
2. Grill the steak for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired doneness.
3. Roast garlic cloves in the oven at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. Boil the potatoes until they are tender, then mash with butter and milk.
5. Squeeze the roasted garlic into the mashed potatoes and mix well.
6. Serve the grilled steak with the roasted garlic mashed potatoes.

17. Light and Airy Chicken Cannelloni Recipe

Delicate chicken and cheese filled pasta tubes baked to perfection.

Ingredients

• 12 cannelloni tubes
• 1 pound boneless chicken breast
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
• 1 egg
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella for topping
• Fresh basil leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the cannelloni tubes according to package instructions.
3. In a bowl, combine chicken, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and egg.
4. Stuff each cooked cannelloni tube with the chicken mixture.
5. Spread a layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish.
6. Arrange the stuffed cannelloni tubes in the baking dish.
7. Cover with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Remove from oven and sprinkle with basil leaves.
10. Serve hot and enjoy.

18. Italian Sausage and Pepper Skillet Dinner

Hearty Italian sausage and pepper skillet dinner perfect for Valentine's Day.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage
• 1 large onion
• 2 large bell peppers
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic and cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add bell peppers and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper, and stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

19. Chicken and Mushroom Creamy Pasta Bake

Creamy pasta bake with chicken and mushroom in a rich sauce.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta
• 1 lb boneless chicken breast
• 2 cups mixed mushrooms
• 1 onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 cup cream
• 1 cup grated mozzarella
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
5. Stir in the cream, mozzarella, parmesan, and thyme.
6. Combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and mushroom mixture in a large bowl.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
10. Serve hot and enjoy.

20. Pan-Seared Chicken Breast With Lemon

Tender chicken breast cooked with lemon and herbs for a romantic dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless chicken breasts
• 2 lemons
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 cup of chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, until cooked through.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
6. Squeeze the lemon juice into the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic and olive oil.
7. Add the chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a simmer.
8. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and spoon some of the lemon sauce over the top of each breast.
9. Serve hot and garnish with lemon slices.

21. Homemade Italian Meatballs With Spaghetti

Tender Italian meatballs served with spaghetti and marinara sauce.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 12 oz spaghetti
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix everything together with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
4. Use your hands to shape the mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
5. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. While the meatballs are baking, cook the spaghetti in a large pot of boiling, salted water until al dente.
8. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
9. Add the marinara sauce to the spaghetti and toss, adding some reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick.
10. When the meatballs are done, add them to the spaghetti and sauce, and toss everything together.
11. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.

22. Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Stuffed Chicken

Tender chicken stuffed with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, perfect for a romantic dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
• 1/2 cup fresh spinach
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, garlic, and mozzarella cheese.
3. Lay the chicken breasts flat and make a horizontal incision in each to create a pocket.
4. Stuff each chicken breast with the sun-dried tomato and spinach mixture.
5. Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place the stuffed chicken breasts on a baking sheet and bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

23. Easy Caprese Salad With Fresh Mozzarella

A simple and delicious Italian salad with fresh mozzarella.

Ingredients

• 3 large tomatoes, sliced into 1/4 inch thick rounds
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4 inch thick rounds
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Instructions

1. Arrange the sliced tomatoes on a large plate or platter.
2. Top each tomato slice with a round of mozzarella cheese.
3. Drizzle the extra virgin olive oil over the cheese and tomatoes.
4. Sprinkle salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle balsamic vinegar over the salad.
6. Sprinkle chopped fresh basil leaves over the salad.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy.

24. Rich and Creamy Italian Mac and Cheese

Creamy Italian Mac and Cheese is a rich and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

• 8 oz macaroni
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Add the flour and whisk to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
5. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens.
7. Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until melted.
8. Combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce, and season with salt and pepper.
9. Transfer the macaroni to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

25. Baked Ziti With Meat Sauce and Ricotta Cheese

Baked ziti with meat sauce and ricotta cheese is a classic Italian dish.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ziti pasta
• 2 cups meat sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper, and mix well.
4. In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of the meat sauce on the bottom.
5. Arrange half of the cooked ziti pasta on top of the meat sauce.
6. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture over the pasta.
7. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
8. Repeat the layers, starting with the meat sauce, then the remaining ziti pasta, the remaining ricotta cheese mixture, and finally the remaining mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
10. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
12. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.

26. Decadent Tiramisu for Valentine's Day Dessert

Indulge in a creamy, coffee-infused Tiramisu for a romantic dessert.

Ingredients

• 12-16 ladyfingers
• 1 cup of strong brewed coffee
• 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large egg yolks
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Cocoa powder for dusting

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the coffee and sugar, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mascarpone cheese, egg yolks, and vanilla extract.
4. To assemble the Tiramisu, start with a layer of ladyfingers in the bottom of a serving dish.
5. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
6. Repeat the layers, starting with the ladyfingers, then the mascarpone mixture.
7. Dust the top of the Tiramisu with cocoa powder.
8. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
9. Just before serving, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
10. Top the Tiramisu with the whipped cream and serve.

Conclusion

You'll impress your loved one with these 26 romantic Italian dinner recipes. Research suggests sharing a home-cooked meal releases oxytocin, the love hormone, making Valentine's Day even more special. Try them and discover the truth behind this theory, creating a memorable evening with delicious dishes like spaghetti carbonara and seafood risotto.