25+ Delicious New Years Italian Recipes for Memorable Celebrations

As the New Year approaches, so does the opportunity to celebrate with family and friends, embracing the warmth of shared meals and joyful gatherings.

What better way to ring in the new year than with a delicious array of Italian recipes?

Italian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors, diverse ingredients, and comforting dishes that evoke a sense of togetherness and celebration.

Whether you’re planning an extravagant feast or a cozy dinner, these 25+ Italian recipes will elevate your New Year’s table and leave your guests in awe.

From hearty pasta dishes and savory appetizers to indulgent desserts, each recipe is infused with traditional Italian flavors that promise to create memorable dining experiences.

Join us as we explore a delectable selection of Italian culinary delights that will not only satisfy your taste buds but also bring a touch of Italian charm to your New Year’s festivities.

25+ Delicious New Years Italian Recipes for Memorable Celebrations

Embracing Italian cuisine for your New Year’s celebration is not just about the food; it’s about creating an atmosphere of love, warmth, and joy.

Each dish tells a story, reflecting the rich culinary traditions that have been passed down through generations.

From the savory aromas wafting through the kitchen to the laughter shared around the table, these 25+ Italian recipes are sure to enhance your festivities and create lasting memories.

So, gather your loved ones, pour a glass of wine, and indulge in the delightful flavors of Italy as you welcome the new year with open hearts and appetites.

With these recipes at your side, your New Year’s celebration will be a feast to remember, filled with joy, flavor, and the spirit of Italian hospitality.

Italian Lentil and Sausage Stew (Zuppa di Lenticchie e Salsiccia)

This hearty Italian Lentil and Sausage Stew is a staple dish for New Year’s celebrations in Italy, as lentils symbolize prosperity and luck for the coming year. Packed with earthy flavors from lentils, a hint of fennel from Italian sausage, and aromatic herbs, this stew is not only rich in tradition but also satisfying in taste. It’s slow-cooked to let the flavors deepen, making it the perfect dish to serve on a chilly winter evening, especially when paired with crusty bread or a glass of red wine.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 4 Italian sausages (mild or spicy), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage pieces and cook until browned. Remove the sausage and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft.
3. Add the lentils, tomatoes, broth, bay leaf, and thyme to the pot. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Add the cooked sausage back into the pot, cover, and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and remove the bay leaf before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread.

A bowl of this Italian Lentil and Sausage Stew brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of Italian tradition to your New Year’s table. With its rustic appeal and rich taste, it’s a wonderful way to start the year with a meal that’s both hearty and hopeful for good fortune.

Classic Italian Shrimp Scampi (Scampi di Capodanno)

Shrimp Scampi is a classic Italian dish that brings elegance to any festive table. Known for its simplicity and fresh flavors, this dish is particularly favored during New Year’s as shrimp is considered a luxurious and celebratory ingredient. With fresh shrimp cooked in a buttery garlic sauce and enhanced by white wine and lemon, this dish is ideal as a light appetizer or main course.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup dry white wine
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges for garnish
• Cooked pasta or crusty bread for serving

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the shrimp to the skillet, and cook until they start to turn pink, about 2 minutes on each side.
3. Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, and add red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it slightly thickens and the shrimp is fully cooked.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh parsley.
5. Serve the shrimp scampi over cooked pasta or with crusty bread for dipping, along with lemon wedges on the side.

Classic Italian Shrimp Scampi is a delightfully simple yet luxurious dish that’s perfect for special occasions. With its bright, zesty flavors and aromatic garlic butter sauce, this scampi is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that celebrates the freshness of seafood.

Italian Panettone Bread Pudding

Transform the iconic Italian Panettone into a warm, comforting bread pudding for a sweet New Year’s dessert. Panettone is a festive Italian sweet bread filled with dried fruits, traditionally enjoyed during the holidays. By baking it into a creamy bread pudding with a hint of vanilla and orange zest, this recipe elevates the flavors and adds a cozy touch to your New Year’s celebrations. Serve it with a drizzle of vanilla cream sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar for a decadent finish.

Ingredients

• 1 panettone loaf (about 1 lb), cut into cubes
• 3 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 orange
• Powdered sugar for dusting
• Vanilla cream sauce (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and orange zest until smooth.
3. Place the panettone cubes in the greased baking dish, and pour the custard mixture over them. Gently press the bread down to ensure it soaks up the liquid.
4. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the pudding is set but still soft in the center.
6. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm. Optionally, drizzle with vanilla cream sauce.

This Italian Panettone Bread Pudding is a sweet, comforting way to end a New Year’s feast. The soft, custardy interior and caramelized edges create a delightful texture, while the citrusy flavor from the orange zest adds a refreshing twist. It’s a dessert that celebrates Italian holiday traditions in a unique, crowd-pleasing way.

Italian Stuffed Zucchini Boats (Zucchine Ripiene alla Italiana)

Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a colorful, delicious way to incorporate vegetables into your New Year’s menu while keeping with traditional Italian flavors. These zucchini boats are filled with a savory mix of ground beef, tomatoes, and herbs, topped with a layer of melted mozzarella. Perfect as an appetizer or main dish, they’re hearty yet light, making them a versatile option for any celebration.

Ingredients

• 4 medium zucchini
• 1/2 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cut each zucchini in half lengthwise and scoop out the pulp, leaving a 1/4-inch shell. Set the pulp aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, and sauté until softened. Add the ground beef or sausage, breaking it apart, and cook until browned.
4. Add the reserved zucchini pulp, marinara sauce, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
5. Spoon the filling into each zucchini half, then top with shredded mozzarella.
6. Arrange the zucchini boats on the baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

These Italian Stuffed Zucchini Boats offer a beautiful blend of Italian flavors in every bite. The creamy mozzarella topping and rich filling make these boats satisfyingly indulgent yet still packed with vegetables. This dish is a great way to balance your New Year’s spread with something light yet savory.

Italian Baked Cod with Tomatoes and Olives (Merluzzo al Forno con Pomodori e Olive)

This Italian Baked Cod is a light yet flavorful dish, perfect for a festive New Year’s dinner. Cod is often associated with good luck and prosperity in Italian culture, making it an ideal choice for the occasion. This recipe combines flaky cod fillets with juicy tomatoes, briny olives, and a medley of herbs for a burst of Mediterranean flavor. It’s a healthy and vibrant dish that pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted potatoes or steamed vegetables.

Ingredients

• 4 cod fillets
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a baking dish, arrange the cod fillets in a single layer. Scatter the cherry tomatoes, olives, red onion, and garlic around the fillets.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the dish and season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cod is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
5. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh basil and parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Italian Baked Cod with Tomatoes and Olives is a light yet satisfying main course, perfect for New Year’s festivities. The delicate flavor of cod mingles beautifully with the tangy tomatoes and olives, bringing a hint of the Mediterranean to your table. This dish is as visually appealing as it is tasty, making it a delightful centerpiece for your holiday meal.

Italian Mascarpone Tiramisu Trifle (Tiramisù in Bicchiere)

Tiramisu is one of Italy’s most beloved desserts, and presenting it as individual trifles adds an elegant, modern twist perfect for New Year’s celebrations. This Mascarpone Tiramisu Trifle is layered with delicate mascarpone cream, coffee-soaked ladyfingers, and a dusting of cocoa powder, creating a luscious dessert that feels both festive and luxurious. Each bite is creamy, coffee-flavored bliss that’s sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brewed espresso or strong coffee, cooled
• 1/4 cup coffee liqueur (optional)
• 8 oz mascarpone cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 10-12 ladyfinger cookies, broken into pieces
• Unsweetened cocoa powder for dusting
• Shaved dark chocolate for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix the brewed coffee with coffee liqueur, if using, and set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the mascarpone, heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth and creamy.
3. Dip each piece of ladyfinger into the coffee mixture and layer it at the bottom of each serving glass.
4. Add a layer of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers, then repeat the layers, finishing with a mascarpone layer on top.
5. Dust with cocoa powder and top with shaved chocolate if desired.
6. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.

This Italian Mascarpone Tiramisu Trifle is a delightful, individual take on a classic dessert. With its smooth and creamy layers infused with coffee, it’s the perfect ending to a festive meal. Not only does it look sophisticated in glasses, but the rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture make it a memorable New Year’s treat.

Italian Cabbage and Sausage Skillet (Cavolo e Salsiccia in Padella)

This Italian Cabbage and Sausage Skillet is a comforting and hearty dish that embodies the essence of Italian cooking with simple, rustic ingredients. Cabbage is often associated with good fortune, making this dish a fitting choice for New Year’s celebrations. The combination of savory Italian sausage and tender cabbage creates a flavorful one-pan meal that’s quick to prepare and full of hearty satisfaction. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or as a satisfying side dish for your New Year’s feast.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
• 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned.
2. Once the sausage is cooked through, add the onion and garlic to the skillet, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Stir in the chopped cabbage and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper, and mix well.
4. Cover the skillet and cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is wilted and tender.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This Italian Cabbage and Sausage Skillet is not only delicious but also quick and easy to make. The flavors meld beautifully, and the dish is both filling and nutritious. It’s a great way to start the New Year on a comforting note while honoring traditional Italian ingredients and customs.

Italian Roast Pork with Fennel (Porchetta di Maiale)

Porchetta is a classic Italian dish often served during festive occasions and family gatherings, making it an ideal centerpiece for New Year’s celebrations. This succulent roast pork is infused with fragrant herbs, spices, and the unique flavor of fennel, creating a deliciously aromatic dish. It’s often accompanied by roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, and it’s perfect for serving a crowd or for festive family meals.

Ingredients

• 3-4 lbs pork shoulder or pork belly, boneless
• 2 tbsp fennel seeds, toasted and crushed
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 cups white wine (for roasting)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together fennel seeds, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, olive oil, and lemon zest to create a paste.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork, making sure to get it into any folds or crevices. Roll the pork tightly and tie with kitchen twine.
4. Place the pork on a roasting rack in a baking dish. Pour white wine into the dish for moisture during roasting.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for about 2-2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) and the skin is crispy and golden brown.
6. Let the pork rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

This Italian Roast Pork with Fennel is a show-stopping dish that brings warmth and flavor to your New Year’s celebration. The aromatic herbs and the succulent meat create a truly indulgent experience that your guests will remember long after the holidays are over. It’s a celebration of Italian culinary traditions that will leave everyone satisfied.

Italian Ricotta Cheesecake (Torta di Ricotta)

This Italian Ricotta Cheesecake is a lighter, creamier version of the traditional cheesecake, making it a perfect dessert to balance out the hearty dishes often served during New Year’s. Infused with zesty lemon and vanilla flavors, this cheesecake has a delicate texture that melts in your mouth. It’s an elegant way to end your festive meal, showcasing the delightful flavors of Italian pastries while still feeling refreshing.

Ingredients

• 2 cups ricotta cheese, drained
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese and granulated sugar. Beat until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, lemon juice, flour, and salt until fully combined.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared springform pan and smooth the top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the cheesecake is set and the top is lightly golden. The center may still be slightly jiggly, as it will firm up as it cools.
6. Allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours before removing from the pan.
7. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.

This Italian Ricotta Cheesecake is the perfect ending to your New Year’s feast, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and zest. Its creamy texture and refreshing flavor make it a crowd-pleaser that celebrates Italian culinary traditions while providing a lighter dessert option. Each slice is a delicious reminder of the festive spirit, leaving everyone satisfied and ready for the year ahead.

Italian Meatballs in Marinara Sauce (Polpette al Sugo)

Italian meatballs are a beloved classic, and serving them in a rich marinara sauce makes for a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for New Year’s gatherings. These meatballs are flavorful and tender, made from a blend of ground meats and Italian herbs, then simmered in a homemade tomato sauce. They can be served on their own, over pasta, or in a hearty sandwich, making them a versatile addition to your festive menu.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• Olive oil for frying

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.
2. Form the mixture into meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, then transfer them to a plate.
4. In the same skillet, add the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer. Return the meatballs to the skillet, cover, and let them simmer in the sauce for about 20-25 minutes, until cooked through.
5. Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with additional parsley and Parmesan if desired.

These Italian Meatballs in Marinara Sauce are the epitome of comfort food and are perfect for feeding a crowd. With their rich flavors and tender texture, they embody the warmth and love of traditional Italian cooking, making them an excellent choice for your New Year’s celebration.

Italian Roasted Vegetable Medley (Verdure Arrosto)

This Italian Roasted Vegetable Medley is a colorful, healthy side dish that brings a burst of flavor to your New Year’s table. Roasting vegetables enhances their natural sweetness and creates a wonderful caramelization. This dish features a mix of seasonal vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, and red onions, tossed with aromatic herbs and a drizzle of olive oil. It’s a fantastic way to include nutritious options in your festive meal while celebrating the vibrant flavors of Italy.

Ingredients

• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 eggplant, cubed
• 1 red onion, cut into wedges
• 4 cloves garlic, whole
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the bell peppers, zucchini, eggplant, red onion, and garlic. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned, stirring halfway through for even cooking.
5. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

This Italian Roasted Vegetable Medley not only adds vibrant colors to your New Year’s feast but also a healthy balance of flavors. The combination of roasted vegetables, infused with herbs, is a delightful way to celebrate the season while keeping your meal light and nutritious.

Italian Creamy Polenta (Polenta Cremosa)

Creamy Polenta is a traditional Italian dish that serves as a comforting base for many hearty toppings. Its rich, creamy texture makes it a perfect accompaniment to meats or vegetables and is especially warming during the colder months. For New Year’s, you can serve it topped with a rich ragu, sautéed mushrooms, or simply with a drizzle of good olive oil and fresh herbs.

Ingredients

• 1 cup polenta (cornmeal)
• 4 cups water or chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt to taste
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, bring the water or broth to a boil. Add a pinch of salt.
2. Gradually whisk in the polenta, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
3. Reduce the heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, until the polenta is thick and creamy, about 30-40 minutes.
4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, and butter until melted and well combined. Adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
5. Serve hot, topped with your choice of sauce or toppings.

Italian Creamy Polenta is a versatile and comforting dish that adds a touch of elegance to your New Year’s celebrations. Its smooth texture and subtle flavor make it the perfect canvas for any savory topping, allowing you to enjoy a traditional Italian meal that’s both satisfying and festive.

Italian Risotto with Mushrooms (Risotto ai Funghi)

Risotto is a classic Italian dish known for its creamy texture and rich flavors. This Mushroom Risotto combines Arborio rice with earthy mushrooms, creating a hearty dish that’s perfect for any New Year’s gathering. The slow cooking process allows the rice to absorb the broth, resulting in a luxurious and comforting meal. It’s a wonderful choice for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy evening in.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups Arborio rice
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, or a mix), sliced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup dry white wine
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. In a saucepan, heat the broth and keep it warm over low heat.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sautéing until translucent.
3. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become golden.
4. Add the Arborio rice, stirring for about 2 minutes until the grains are slightly translucent.
5. Pour in the white wine and cook until it’s mostly absorbed.
6. Gradually add the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring continuously. Allow each addition to be absorbed before adding the next.
7. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes until the rice is creamy and al dente.
8. Stir in the remaining butter and Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Italian Risotto with Mushrooms is a dish that embodies comfort and sophistication. Its creamy texture, enhanced by the umami flavor of mushrooms, makes it an indulgent choice for your New Year’s meal. This risotto not only showcases the simplicity of Italian cuisine but also the elegance of celebrating the occasion with a dish that feels both special and comforting.

Italian Eggplant Parmesan (Melanzane alla Parmigiana)

Eggplant Parmesan is a beloved Italian dish that features layers of crispy, breaded eggplant, marinara sauce, and gooey cheese. This comforting casserole is perfect for family gatherings and celebrations, and it can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for a stress-free New Year’s dinner. With its hearty flavors and satisfying texture, Eggplant Parmesan is sure to please both vegetarians and meat lovers alike.

Ingredients

• 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• Olive oil for frying
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out moisture. Rinse and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Set up a breading station: Place flour in one dish, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs in a third.
4. Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Fry the eggplant slices until golden brown on both sides, then transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce, followed by a layer of fried eggplant, a layer of marinara, and a layer of cheeses. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Italian Eggplant Parmesan is a comforting dish that embodies the essence of Italian home cooking. Each layer is a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it a perfect centerpiece for your New Year’s feast. It’s a celebration of seasonal ingredients and heartfelt cooking, inviting everyone to gather around the table to share in the joy of good food and great company.

Italian Panettone Bread Pudding (Budino di Panettone)

Panettone is a traditional Italian Christmas bread that often makes an appearance during the holiday season. Transforming it into a bread pudding is a delightful way to utilize any leftover panettone while creating a rich and indulgent dessert. This Italian Panettone Bread Pudding is infused with custard, dried fruits, and warm spices, offering a cozy and festive treat perfect for ringing in the New Year.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of panettone, cut into cubes
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 large eggs
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup raisins or dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
3. Add the panettone cubes to the mixture, gently folding to coat them evenly. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to absorb the liquid.
4. Stir in the raisins and nuts (if using).
5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Let the bread pudding cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.

This Italian Panettone Bread Pudding is a wonderful way to end your New Year’s celebration on a sweet note. It’s a warm, comforting dessert that captures the flavors of the holiday season while allowing you to repurpose festive leftovers. Each bite is filled with rich custard and hints of sweetness, making it a memorable treat to enjoy with family and friends as you welcome the new year.

Note: More recipes​ are coming soon!