Complete Italian Christmas Dinner with Recipes and Preparation Tips
An Italian Christmas dinner is unimaginable without traditional dishes. If you want to bring something truly special to your holiday table this year, try this authentic Italian menu. The simple yet elegant dishes are perfect for the festive atmosphere and are sure to impress your family and guests. This menu has everything you need, from appetizers to desserts!
Appetizer: Tomato Bruschetta
Bruschetta is one of the most famous Italian appetizers, making it an excellent choice to start your Christmas dinner. The crispy bread, fresh tomatoes, and fragrant basil provide a true Mediterranean taste experience.
- 4 slices of rustic bread
- 4-5 ripe tomatoes
- 2 cloves of garlic
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Slice the bread and toast it in a dry pan or oven until crispy.
- Rub the toasted bread with garlic.
- Dice the tomatoes and mix with olive oil, salt, pepper, and chopped basil.
- Top the toasted bread with the tomato mixture and serve immediately.
Tip: To make it extra special, add mozzarella pieces or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar.
Main Course: Gnocchi with Gorgonzola Sauce
Gnocchi with gorgonzola sauce is one of the classic Italian Christmas pasta dishes. The creamy, cheesy sauce perfectly complements the soft potato gnocchi, making it a worthy choice for your festive table.
- 500 g gnocchi (homemade or store-bought)
- 150 g gorgonzola
- 200 ml cream
- 50 g butter
- Freshly grated parmesan
- Freshly ground pepper
- Boil salted water and cook the gnocchi as instructed on the package (usually 2-3 minutes).
- Melt the butter in a pan and add the cream.
- Crumble the gorgonzola into the mixture and stir over low heat until you have a creamy sauce.
- Drain the gnocchi and toss with the sauce.
- Serve topped with freshly grated parmesan and ground pepper.
Tip: Add chopped walnuts or fresh parsley for an extra touch.
Main Dish: Stuffed Veal Rolls (Involtini di Vitello)
Among Italian Christmas main dishes, stuffed veal rolls are one of the most popular. The thinly sliced veal, prosciutto, and sage combination creates a delicious and elegant dish for your festive table.
- 8 thin slices of veal
- 100 g prosciutto
- 100 g grated parmesan
- 8 fresh sage leaves
- 1 dl dry white wine
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Toothpicks for securing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lay a slice of prosciutto, some grated parmesan, and a sage leaf on each veal slice.
- Roll them up tightly and secure with toothpicks.
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sear the veal rolls until golden brown on all sides.
- Add white wine and simmer over low heat for 15-20 minutes until the meat is tender.
Tip: Serve with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Dessert: Panettone with Mascarpone Cream
The Italian panettone is an iconic Christmas dessert that becomes even more special when served with mascarpone cream. This dessert is simple to prepare but sure to delight everyone.
- 1 small panettone
- 250 g mascarpone
- 200 ml cream
- 50 g powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Fresh fruits or chocolate shavings for decoration
- Slice the panettone and place on plates.
- Mix the mascarpone with powdered sugar and vanilla.
- Whip the cream until stiff and gently fold into the mascarpone mixture.
- Top the panettone slices with the cream and decorate with fresh fruits or chocolate shavings.
Tip: Flavor the mascarpone cream with a little coffee or liqueur for an added twist.
Immerse Yourself in the Italian Christmas Spirit!
An Italian Christmas dinner is not just about food but also about creating moments of togetherness, honoring traditions, and celebrating with loved ones. This menu – from fresh bruschetta to creamy gnocchi, stuffed veal rolls, and mascarpone panettone – perfectly captures the essence of Italian holidays. The authentic yet simple recipes allow anyone to bring the magic of Italy to their table.
Whether you’re planning a family gathering or hosting friends, these Italian Christmas dishes will surely make the evening unforgettable. The richness of Italian flavors and the traditional recipes will enchant everyone and bring the holiday spirit closer.
Thank you for joining us this year and drawing inspiration from Italian Christmas traditions. The Italia Bútor team wishes you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
