What do you think?
Rate this book
The Easy Italian Cookbook: 100 Quick and Authentic Recipes
The art of Italian cuisine made easy―100 simple, authentic recipes
Fragrant basil, melty mozzarella, sun-ripened tomatoes, savory garlic―Italian cooking is all about selecting simple, high-quality ingredients that combine to create punches of complex flavor. The Easy Italian Cookbook is everything Italian cookbooks should be, with 100 mouthwatering, easy-to-make recipes that use fresh, everyday ingredients you can find at most grocery stores.
From appetizers to pastas, pizzas, meats, and sweets, this standout among Italian cookbooks has a quick, simple Italian recipe for everyone. You’ll find a number of weeknight-friendly recipes, as well as one-pot meals, vegetarian and vegan dishes, and gluten-free recipes the whole family can enjoy. Mangiamo!
All Italian cookbooks should include:
Pairing suggestions―This book goes beyond other Italian cookbooks to offer pairing suggestions for recipes with flavors that complement each other deliciously, like drinking an Aperol Spritz while munching on Clams Oreganata.
Italian essentials―Learn about Italian kitchen staples to have on hand, including anchovies, espresso, extra-virgin olive oil, and more.
Time-saving tips―Unlike other Italian cookbooks, this one gives you helpful pointers for saving time on many of the recipes, like making certain things in advance or using a stand mixer to knead dough.
If you’ve been looking for Italian cookbooks that offer tasty recipes that are fast and easy, look no further―The Easy Italian Cookbook is your new favorite kitchen companion.
Fragrant basil, melty mozzarella, sun-ripened tomatoes, savory garlic―Italian cooking is all about selecting simple, high-quality ingredients that combine to create punches of complex flavor. The Easy Italian Cookbook is everything Italian cookbooks should be, with 100 mouthwatering, easy-to-make recipes that use fresh, everyday ingredients you can find at most grocery stores.
From appetizers to pastas, pizzas, meats, and sweets, this standout among Italian cookbooks has a quick, simple Italian recipe for everyone. You’ll find a number of weeknight-friendly recipes, as well as one-pot meals, vegetarian and vegan dishes, and gluten-free recipes the whole family can enjoy. Mangiamo!
All Italian cookbooks should include:
Pairing suggestions―This book goes beyond other Italian cookbooks to offer pairing suggestions for recipes with flavors that complement each other deliciously, like drinking an Aperol Spritz while munching on Clams Oreganata.
Italian essentials―Learn about Italian kitchen staples to have on hand, including anchovies, espresso, extra-virgin olive oil, and more.
Time-saving tips―Unlike other Italian cookbooks, this one gives you helpful pointers for saving time on many of the recipes, like making certain things in advance or using a stand mixer to knead dough.
If you’ve been looking for Italian cookbooks that offer tasty recipes that are fast and easy, look no further―The Easy Italian Cookbook is your new favorite kitchen companion.
164 pages, Paperback
Published April 28, 2020
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
April 16, 2020
Find all of my reviews at: http://52bookminimum.blogspot.com/
In case you missed it, my life has become an endless feeding session of these young humans who are being held captive in the house for at least another 30 days. Luckily I receivean expired meat delivery courtesy of the Walmart truck a new cookbook every couple of weeks so they don’t rip my arm off like one of my homeboy Joey E.’s tigers. In order to prevent me from punching someone in the face when my at-home workday ended and my dinner making sessions begin, I started taking my own precautions . . . . .
After a month of this, it’s kind of more like . . . . .
This cookbook is getting all of the stars because (1) I am a fatty, (2) I love Italian food, (3) it helped me make things the past week that made me feel like Carmella Soprano . . . .
(^^^^Chicken Carbonarra)
(4) it includes “duh” things most could probably throw together themselves, but that will still impress all your bougie friends . . . . .
And most importantly, (5) it had an alcoholic beverage section . . . .
Who knew Bellinis were so easy to make? Or so delicious? *hiccup*
Copy provided by Callisto Publisher’s Club in exchange for an honest review.
In case you missed it, my life has become an endless feeding session of these young humans who are being held captive in the house for at least another 30 days. Luckily I receive
After a month of this, it’s kind of more like . . . . .
This cookbook is getting all of the stars because (1) I am a fatty, (2) I love Italian food, (3) it helped me make things the past week that made me feel like Carmella Soprano . . . .
(^^^^Chicken Carbonarra)
(4) it includes “duh” things most could probably throw together themselves, but that will still impress all your bougie friends . . . . .
And most importantly, (5) it had an alcoholic beverage section . . . .
Who knew Bellinis were so easy to make? Or so delicious? *hiccup*
Copy provided by Callisto Publisher’s Club in exchange for an honest review.
August 1, 2020
I found all of my favorite Italian recipes and then some! My favorite section is the dessert section! Lots to choose from and they couldn’t be easier to do. I thank Netgalley and Callisto Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this cookbook.
April 28, 2020
The Easy Italian Cookbook by Paulette Licitra is just that, easy. The recipes are easy to read and easy to follow. The ingredients are fresh for the most part.
In this book, you will learn Italian Essentials such as herbs, cheeses, meats, and spices.
The sections include Aperitivi and Appetizers, Soups and Salads, polenta, Risottos and Fritattas, Pastas and Sauces, Pizza, Breads and Focaccia, Vegetables and Legumes, Poultry and Meats, Fish and Seafood and Pastries and Desserts.
Something for everyone, I am a fan of pasta of any kind and as I was looking through the cookbook, I saw a lot of recipes that I will definitely be trying. What I liked were the tips for each recipe and what to pair the recipe with.
In this book, you will learn Italian Essentials such as herbs, cheeses, meats, and spices.
The sections include Aperitivi and Appetizers, Soups and Salads, polenta, Risottos and Fritattas, Pastas and Sauces, Pizza, Breads and Focaccia, Vegetables and Legumes, Poultry and Meats, Fish and Seafood and Pastries and Desserts.
Something for everyone, I am a fan of pasta of any kind and as I was looking through the cookbook, I saw a lot of recipes that I will definitely be trying. What I liked were the tips for each recipe and what to pair the recipe with.
May 5, 2020
The pictures in this book grabbed me right away. As a fan of Italian cuisine, my mouth was watering at the various pasta dishes. Usually I gloss over desserts, as I am not a big dessert maker, but even I had to pause at the tiramisu. The book also featured one of my favorite cocktails, the Negroni.
I liked the way the recipes were categorized:
Essentials
Aperitivi and apps
Soups and salads
Polenta, risotto and frittatas
Pasta and sauces
Pizza, breads and Focaccia
Veggies and legumes
Poultry and meat
Fish and seafood
Pastries and desserts
I love when a cookbook covers the basic ingredients and gives a little background. This book did it perfectly. The book also included prep and cook time which is helpful, especially to new chefs unfamiliar with how long things take. Lastly, you can easily tell if a recipe is vegetarian, dairy free or gluten free, a huge plus for those on special diets
Overall, this is a great cookbook, a book with some classics as well as some new takes on Italian cuisine. A perfect book for someone living on their own learning to cook. It would be even better if it had more pictures.
Thank you Callisto Media and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review
I liked the way the recipes were categorized:
Essentials
Aperitivi and apps
Soups and salads
Polenta, risotto and frittatas
Pasta and sauces
Pizza, breads and Focaccia
Veggies and legumes
Poultry and meat
Fish and seafood
Pastries and desserts
I love when a cookbook covers the basic ingredients and gives a little background. This book did it perfectly. The book also included prep and cook time which is helpful, especially to new chefs unfamiliar with how long things take. Lastly, you can easily tell if a recipe is vegetarian, dairy free or gluten free, a huge plus for those on special diets
Overall, this is a great cookbook, a book with some classics as well as some new takes on Italian cuisine. A perfect book for someone living on their own learning to cook. It would be even better if it had more pictures.
Thank you Callisto Media and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review
April 24, 2020
Thanks so much to Callisto Publishing for a copy to give my honest opinion. Italian food is huge in my family and this author promises great tasting Italian made recipes in an easy way. I myself was really impressed with the amount of information and the abundance of versatile and helpful information found between these covers.
What did I like? The book starts out with an excellent item list with descriptions and flavors that should be found in your kitchen to help make the majority of these recipes. The author gives out information on the style of meals from breakfast to aperitiv’s.... to appetizer’s and dinner. A wealth of information on how Italians buy their food daily to create the finest meals, or how the meals themselves follow through. Some of the tougher pronunciations of words like Bruschetta sound. There are plenty of vegan and vegetarian recipes as well as gluten free. I also like how the author paired certain meals with a dessert...or an aperitivi with an appetizer. The only downside I can see is pictures of the foods. There is only one or two photo’s per section and I would love to have seen more.
Would I recommend or buy? Yes, the book had many favorites, from bruschetta to crab cakes. I thought the cook book was well charted and the recipes very easy and fun to follow. The book also had some factual information that was eye opening and stuff I had no idea. Like Caesar dressing is made with anchovies.... and I love the dressing but did not know that. So fascinating of a cookbook!
Thoughts for the author? Congratulations on your new release! Really a great cookbook. The author also boasts a blog so hopefully her blog will have more pictures and maybe some videos. This author also regularly travels to Italy. I hope her friends and family are safe from this tragedy of the virus. Loved the cookbook!
What did I like? The book starts out with an excellent item list with descriptions and flavors that should be found in your kitchen to help make the majority of these recipes. The author gives out information on the style of meals from breakfast to aperitiv’s.... to appetizer’s and dinner. A wealth of information on how Italians buy their food daily to create the finest meals, or how the meals themselves follow through. Some of the tougher pronunciations of words like Bruschetta sound. There are plenty of vegan and vegetarian recipes as well as gluten free. I also like how the author paired certain meals with a dessert...or an aperitivi with an appetizer. The only downside I can see is pictures of the foods. There is only one or two photo’s per section and I would love to have seen more.
Would I recommend or buy? Yes, the book had many favorites, from bruschetta to crab cakes. I thought the cook book was well charted and the recipes very easy and fun to follow. The book also had some factual information that was eye opening and stuff I had no idea. Like Caesar dressing is made with anchovies.... and I love the dressing but did not know that. So fascinating of a cookbook!
Thoughts for the author? Congratulations on your new release! Really a great cookbook. The author also boasts a blog so hopefully her blog will have more pictures and maybe some videos. This author also regularly travels to Italy. I hope her friends and family are safe from this tragedy of the virus. Loved the cookbook!
April 24, 2020
Everyone loves spaghetti and tomato sauce as an easy weeknight dinner, but there is so much more to Italian food food than that. And it’s not all Sunday sauces that take hours to develop the flavor or roasts that take all afternoon to cook. There are many ways to pack that delicious Italian flavor into easy recipes, and The Easy Italian Cookbook will show you how, from pre-dinner drinks all the way to desserts.
Author Paulette Licitra is a trained chef who grew up in an Italian-American family. She learned to cook Italian food in some of the best kitchens in the states and in Italy, and now she teaches Italian cooking in Nashville. This is a woman who knows her stuff, and she’s willing to open up her collection of recipes and share them with us.
After an introduction to the ideal Italian pantry (yes, she does explain the difference in extra virgin olive oils and which ones to cook with), she jumps in with the appetizers and cocktails. So make yourself a Campari and Some, a Negroni, or a Peach Bellini, and get ready for some tasty appetizers. From a n Antipasto Platter to Clams Oreganata to White Bean and Sage Crostini, you can start your meal off right or make starters for to take to a dinner party.
There are soups, such as Tuscan Ribollita (Hearty Vegetable and Bread Soup), Italian Wedding Soup with Mini Meatballs, and Pappa al Pomodoro (Tomato and Bread Soup). Or if you prefer an Italian salad, there’s an Italian Mixed Green Salad with Parmigiano Vinaigrette, Sicilian Orange and Fennel Salad, or a Chopped Caprese Salad with Balsamic Vinegar.
From there, the chapters dive deep into the comfort foods of polenta, risotto, frittatas, pastas, and sauces. How could you not be tempted by these recipes for Soft and Cheesy Polenta with Roasted Mushrooms, Spaghetti Cupcake Frittatas, Lemony Risotto with Asparagus, Fusilli with Red Wine and Polenta, True Fettuccine Alfredo, or Baked Stuffed Pasta Shells?
There are recipes for Fresh Egg Pasta Dough, a 15-Minute Tomato Sauce, a 30-Minute Meat Sauce, and Dad’s Homemade Pizza Dough. Because of course there are also recipes for pizza. Cast Iron Pan Pizza Margherita, Puff Pastry Pizza, Riviera Focaccia with Rosemary and Olives, Parmigiano Crackers, Sesame-Cheese Bread Sticks—there are baked treats for everyone.
But not everyone loves pasta and pizza like I do, and The Easy Italian Cookbook has you covered for meats, seafood, and vegetables too. There’s Eggplant Parmigiana, Garlicky Lentils with Fried Croutons, and Chickpeas with Sage and Crunchy Fennel. Chicken Piccata with Lemon and Capers, Chicken Saltimbocca with Sage and Prosciutto, Rustic Sausage Meatballs, and Spice-Rubbed Pork Tenderloin. Roasted Cod with Crispy Parmigiano Crumbs, Tilapia Poached in Tomato-Tarragon Sauce, Shrimp Scampi, and Lightly Fried Calamari.
And finally, a chapter on desserts. There is Chocolate Tiramisu, Puff Pastry Cannoli with Sweet Ricotta Cream, Sicilian Almond-Orange Cookies, and Amaretto Chocolate Brownies with Walnuts.
These are just a handful of the 100 recipes included here, and throughout the cookbook, there are times for prep time and cook time as well as tags for those who look for diet-specific recipes: dairy-free, gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan. And many recipes are one-pan or 30 minutes or less for those days you need a flavorful meal in a hurry.
The Easy Italian Cookbook is just that. It’s filled with amazing Italian recipes that can be made quickly and easily but are delicious and perfect for family dinners. This cookbook is portable and practical and perfect for anyone wanting an introduction to Italian cooking, to cooks without a lot of time, or to anyone who just loves Italian food! But beware the pictures—they make you hungry!
A copy of The Easy Italian Cookbook was provided by Rockridge Press through the Callisto Media Publisher’s Club, with many thanks.
Author Paulette Licitra is a trained chef who grew up in an Italian-American family. She learned to cook Italian food in some of the best kitchens in the states and in Italy, and now she teaches Italian cooking in Nashville. This is a woman who knows her stuff, and she’s willing to open up her collection of recipes and share them with us.
After an introduction to the ideal Italian pantry (yes, she does explain the difference in extra virgin olive oils and which ones to cook with), she jumps in with the appetizers and cocktails. So make yourself a Campari and Some, a Negroni, or a Peach Bellini, and get ready for some tasty appetizers. From a n Antipasto Platter to Clams Oreganata to White Bean and Sage Crostini, you can start your meal off right or make starters for to take to a dinner party.
There are soups, such as Tuscan Ribollita (Hearty Vegetable and Bread Soup), Italian Wedding Soup with Mini Meatballs, and Pappa al Pomodoro (Tomato and Bread Soup). Or if you prefer an Italian salad, there’s an Italian Mixed Green Salad with Parmigiano Vinaigrette, Sicilian Orange and Fennel Salad, or a Chopped Caprese Salad with Balsamic Vinegar.
From there, the chapters dive deep into the comfort foods of polenta, risotto, frittatas, pastas, and sauces. How could you not be tempted by these recipes for Soft and Cheesy Polenta with Roasted Mushrooms, Spaghetti Cupcake Frittatas, Lemony Risotto with Asparagus, Fusilli with Red Wine and Polenta, True Fettuccine Alfredo, or Baked Stuffed Pasta Shells?
There are recipes for Fresh Egg Pasta Dough, a 15-Minute Tomato Sauce, a 30-Minute Meat Sauce, and Dad’s Homemade Pizza Dough. Because of course there are also recipes for pizza. Cast Iron Pan Pizza Margherita, Puff Pastry Pizza, Riviera Focaccia with Rosemary and Olives, Parmigiano Crackers, Sesame-Cheese Bread Sticks—there are baked treats for everyone.
But not everyone loves pasta and pizza like I do, and The Easy Italian Cookbook has you covered for meats, seafood, and vegetables too. There’s Eggplant Parmigiana, Garlicky Lentils with Fried Croutons, and Chickpeas with Sage and Crunchy Fennel. Chicken Piccata with Lemon and Capers, Chicken Saltimbocca with Sage and Prosciutto, Rustic Sausage Meatballs, and Spice-Rubbed Pork Tenderloin. Roasted Cod with Crispy Parmigiano Crumbs, Tilapia Poached in Tomato-Tarragon Sauce, Shrimp Scampi, and Lightly Fried Calamari.
And finally, a chapter on desserts. There is Chocolate Tiramisu, Puff Pastry Cannoli with Sweet Ricotta Cream, Sicilian Almond-Orange Cookies, and Amaretto Chocolate Brownies with Walnuts.
These are just a handful of the 100 recipes included here, and throughout the cookbook, there are times for prep time and cook time as well as tags for those who look for diet-specific recipes: dairy-free, gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan. And many recipes are one-pan or 30 minutes or less for those days you need a flavorful meal in a hurry.
The Easy Italian Cookbook is just that. It’s filled with amazing Italian recipes that can be made quickly and easily but are delicious and perfect for family dinners. This cookbook is portable and practical and perfect for anyone wanting an introduction to Italian cooking, to cooks without a lot of time, or to anyone who just loves Italian food! But beware the pictures—they make you hungry!
A copy of The Easy Italian Cookbook was provided by Rockridge Press through the Callisto Media Publisher’s Club, with many thanks.
April 10, 2020
“As you master the straightforward methods of this style of cooking, you’ll soon discover how easy it is to enjoy the enticing aromas and irresistible pleasures of Italian cuisine any night of the week,” Paulette Licitra states in the introduction of her book, The Easy Italian Cookbook: 100 Quick and Authentic Recipes.
~ What ~
This one-hundred-and-sixty-four-page paperback targets those interested in making quick and authentic Italian dishes. After an introduction, the book is divided into ten sections that have one hundred recipes, followed by measurement conversions, references, index, acknowledgments, and the author’s biography.
The first chapter has descriptions of almost forty ingredients including the explanation of destination of origin labels and extra-virgin olive oil. The next nine chapters contain recipes of aperitivi and appetizers, soups and salads, polenta, risotto, and frittatas, pastas and sauces, pizza, breads, and focaccia, vegetables and legumes, poultry and meats, fish and seafood, and pastries and desserts.
Each one-to-two-page recipe begins with its title, followed by serving size, prep time, cook time, and a descriptive paragraph. The ingredients are listed in bold in order used on the left side of the page with numbered directions on the right side. Often added are variation, ingredient, and pairing tips.
~ Why ~
My husband is Italian so we enjoy authentic food from Italy, especially the lasagna recipe that has been past down five generations in his family. I like this book’s mouth-watering descriptions with their simplistic instructions and variety of so many dish options.
Some of the notable recipes are Campari and Soda, Clams Oreganata, Tortellini in Brodo with Spinage, Sicilian Orange and Fennel Salad, Spaghetti Cupcake Frittatas, Risi e Bisi, Fresh Egg Pasta Dough, Amalfi Lemony Tuna Capellini, Parmigiano Crackers, Sesame-Cheese Bread Sticks, Eggplant Parmigiana, Garlicky Lentils with Fried Croutons, Chicken Saltimbocca with Sage and Prosciutto, Rustic Sausage Meatballs, Cod Acqua Passa, Lightly Fried Calamari, Chocolate Tiramisu, and Espresso-Poached Pears with Chocolate Sauce.
~ Why Not ~
Those who do not like cooking, especially Italian food, may not appreciate this book. Some with diet restrictions may wish caloric content was added for each dish.
~ Wish ~
Being a visual person, I wish there were colored photographs of all completed dishes. The eggplant parmigiana dish is the same as we make, but I was disappointed there was no lasagna recipe included (maybe it is too time-consuming).
~ Want ~
If you love Italy and its wonderful food, this is a good source for many quick, authentic recipes, but you may notice there are no pictures to make you crave for a bite or two.
Thanks to Callisto Publisher’s Club and the author for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.
~ What ~
This one-hundred-and-sixty-four-page paperback targets those interested in making quick and authentic Italian dishes. After an introduction, the book is divided into ten sections that have one hundred recipes, followed by measurement conversions, references, index, acknowledgments, and the author’s biography.
The first chapter has descriptions of almost forty ingredients including the explanation of destination of origin labels and extra-virgin olive oil. The next nine chapters contain recipes of aperitivi and appetizers, soups and salads, polenta, risotto, and frittatas, pastas and sauces, pizza, breads, and focaccia, vegetables and legumes, poultry and meats, fish and seafood, and pastries and desserts.
Each one-to-two-page recipe begins with its title, followed by serving size, prep time, cook time, and a descriptive paragraph. The ingredients are listed in bold in order used on the left side of the page with numbered directions on the right side. Often added are variation, ingredient, and pairing tips.
~ Why ~
My husband is Italian so we enjoy authentic food from Italy, especially the lasagna recipe that has been past down five generations in his family. I like this book’s mouth-watering descriptions with their simplistic instructions and variety of so many dish options.
Some of the notable recipes are Campari and Soda, Clams Oreganata, Tortellini in Brodo with Spinage, Sicilian Orange and Fennel Salad, Spaghetti Cupcake Frittatas, Risi e Bisi, Fresh Egg Pasta Dough, Amalfi Lemony Tuna Capellini, Parmigiano Crackers, Sesame-Cheese Bread Sticks, Eggplant Parmigiana, Garlicky Lentils with Fried Croutons, Chicken Saltimbocca with Sage and Prosciutto, Rustic Sausage Meatballs, Cod Acqua Passa, Lightly Fried Calamari, Chocolate Tiramisu, and Espresso-Poached Pears with Chocolate Sauce.
~ Why Not ~
Those who do not like cooking, especially Italian food, may not appreciate this book. Some with diet restrictions may wish caloric content was added for each dish.
~ Wish ~
Being a visual person, I wish there were colored photographs of all completed dishes. The eggplant parmigiana dish is the same as we make, but I was disappointed there was no lasagna recipe included (maybe it is too time-consuming).
~ Want ~
If you love Italy and its wonderful food, this is a good source for many quick, authentic recipes, but you may notice there are no pictures to make you crave for a bite or two.
Thanks to Callisto Publisher’s Club and the author for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.
April 12, 2020
Thank you to Rockridge Press for providing me with an advance copy of this cookbook in exchange for my honest review.
Right now, my true rating sits at 4.5 stars - rounding to 5 stars here. Disclaimer, I have not had the chance yet to make anything from this cookbook, but I have read through all of the recipes and introductory chapters.
I'm impressed. I have been an avid reader of cookbooks for about the last decade and especially a fan of Italian-inspired chefs and their cookbooks. In this cookbook, Licitra gives the background, teaching the foundation of Italian cuisine and cooking through this collection of simple, authentic recipes.
My mother-in-law is a fabulous Italian home cook and I was pleased to recognize several of her signature dishes in the pages of this book. The appetizer stuffed mushrooms and orange and fennel salad in particular are familiar staples at our Christmas Eve dinner. As a non-Italian, I greatly appreciated the insight into the methods of Italian cooking and subtle notes of regional details provided in this cookbook. I greatly appreciate the beginning where Italian pantry staples and commonly used ingredients are described and explained, especially when background to the regional and historical significance is also included.
The biggest drawback here and with other books I've seen from this particular publisher when it comes to cookbooks is the lack of images throughout. My partner is a very visual person, and he greatly prefers to see the finished product and if possible, process pictures when skimming a cookbook. Based on our prior experience with this type of cuisine, he did not have a difficult time envisioning the finished dish, but one without this background my struggle to see how the final product would come together and just how appetizing it actually looks.
Will update my review in the coming weeks to better comment on the ease of following the recipes, once we have had a chance to cook up a few of these dishes, but based on my initial read through, it all sounds approachable and very straightforward.
Right now, my true rating sits at 4.5 stars - rounding to 5 stars here. Disclaimer, I have not had the chance yet to make anything from this cookbook, but I have read through all of the recipes and introductory chapters.
I'm impressed. I have been an avid reader of cookbooks for about the last decade and especially a fan of Italian-inspired chefs and their cookbooks. In this cookbook, Licitra gives the background, teaching the foundation of Italian cuisine and cooking through this collection of simple, authentic recipes.
My mother-in-law is a fabulous Italian home cook and I was pleased to recognize several of her signature dishes in the pages of this book. The appetizer stuffed mushrooms and orange and fennel salad in particular are familiar staples at our Christmas Eve dinner. As a non-Italian, I greatly appreciated the insight into the methods of Italian cooking and subtle notes of regional details provided in this cookbook. I greatly appreciate the beginning where Italian pantry staples and commonly used ingredients are described and explained, especially when background to the regional and historical significance is also included.
The biggest drawback here and with other books I've seen from this particular publisher when it comes to cookbooks is the lack of images throughout. My partner is a very visual person, and he greatly prefers to see the finished product and if possible, process pictures when skimming a cookbook. Based on our prior experience with this type of cuisine, he did not have a difficult time envisioning the finished dish, but one without this background my struggle to see how the final product would come together and just how appetizing it actually looks.
Will update my review in the coming weeks to better comment on the ease of following the recipes, once we have had a chance to cook up a few of these dishes, but based on my initial read through, it all sounds approachable and very straightforward.
April 18, 2020
Written by a second-generation Italian American, The Easy Italian Cookbook has recipes that have been handed down from family member to family member. Authentic, hearty, and delicious, the recipes follow a journey from appetizers through desserts. There is a tutorial in the beginning, detailing the essential ingredients for successful Italian cooking.
As for the recipe sections, there are too many delicious dishes to mention. Here are some of the highlights, along with the section in which they appear.
Aperitivi and Appetizers: Negroni; The Antipasto Platter; White Bean and Sage Crostini
Soups and Salads: Italian Wedding Soup with Mini Meatballs; Panzanella Salad with Cucumbers
Polenta, Risottos, and Frittatas: Soft and Cheesy Polenta with Roasted Mushrooms; Lemony Risotto with Asparagus; Red and Green Pepper Frittata
Pastas and Sauces: Fresh Egg Pasta Dough; Spaghetti alla Carbonara; True Fettuccine Alfredo
Pizza, Breads, and Focaccia: Dad's Homemade Pizza Dough; Cast Iron Pan Pizza Margherita; Parmigiano Popovers
Vegetables and Legumes: Broccoli Rabe with Garlic and Hot Pepper; Garlicky Lentils with Fried Croutons
Poultry and Meats: Chicken Piccata with Lemon and Capers; Pan-Roasted Chicken with Onion Pilaf; One-Pan Sausage and Peppers
Fish and Seafood: Roasted Cod with Crispy Parmigiano Crumbs; Lightly Fried Calamari
Pastries and Desserts: Chocolate Tiramisu; Amaretto Chocolate Brownies with Walnuts
Overall, The Easy Italian Cookbook: 100 Quick and Authentic Recipes has excellent, easy-to-follow and authentic Italian dishes. The cookbook suffers from a lack of photographs, as we often eat with our eyes. This is a cookbook that will stand the test of time and will easily become one of my go-to's for new dinner dishes. For the reasons listed above, I definitely recommend The Easy Italian Cookbook to other readers.
I was given an opportunity to read The Easy Italian Cookbook: 100 Quick and Authentic Recipes via the publisher. I voluntarily chose to review this cookbook and my opinion is freely given.
As for the recipe sections, there are too many delicious dishes to mention. Here are some of the highlights, along with the section in which they appear.
Aperitivi and Appetizers: Negroni; The Antipasto Platter; White Bean and Sage Crostini
Soups and Salads: Italian Wedding Soup with Mini Meatballs; Panzanella Salad with Cucumbers
Polenta, Risottos, and Frittatas: Soft and Cheesy Polenta with Roasted Mushrooms; Lemony Risotto with Asparagus; Red and Green Pepper Frittata
Pastas and Sauces: Fresh Egg Pasta Dough; Spaghetti alla Carbonara; True Fettuccine Alfredo
Pizza, Breads, and Focaccia: Dad's Homemade Pizza Dough; Cast Iron Pan Pizza Margherita; Parmigiano Popovers
Vegetables and Legumes: Broccoli Rabe with Garlic and Hot Pepper; Garlicky Lentils with Fried Croutons
Poultry and Meats: Chicken Piccata with Lemon and Capers; Pan-Roasted Chicken with Onion Pilaf; One-Pan Sausage and Peppers
Fish and Seafood: Roasted Cod with Crispy Parmigiano Crumbs; Lightly Fried Calamari
Pastries and Desserts: Chocolate Tiramisu; Amaretto Chocolate Brownies with Walnuts
Overall, The Easy Italian Cookbook: 100 Quick and Authentic Recipes has excellent, easy-to-follow and authentic Italian dishes. The cookbook suffers from a lack of photographs, as we often eat with our eyes. This is a cookbook that will stand the test of time and will easily become one of my go-to's for new dinner dishes. For the reasons listed above, I definitely recommend The Easy Italian Cookbook to other readers.
I was given an opportunity to read The Easy Italian Cookbook: 100 Quick and Authentic Recipes via the publisher. I voluntarily chose to review this cookbook and my opinion is freely given.
May 5, 2020
The Easy Italian Cookbook by Paulette Licitra is just that, easy AND wonderful. The recipes are easy to read and easy to follow. In this book, you will learn Italian Essentials such as herbs, cheeses, meats, and spices. Even if you are not new to Italian cooking this book has wonderful and useful information.
The chapters/sections of this cookbook include: Aperitivi and Appetizers, Soups and Salads, polenta, Risottos and Fritattas, Pastas and Sauces, Pizza, Breads and Focaccia, Vegetables and Legumes, Poultry and Meats, Fish and Seafood and Pastries and Desserts.
There is something for everyone found between the covers of this book.
While I might be biased as I love to cook italian, I can relate to this author as I share an almost identical heritage to her and my parents also grew up in Brooklyn. I also had a myriad of relatives to learn from and I am always looking for traditional recipes that are a slight variation on some of my favorites. I bookmarked a lot of recipes that I will definitely be trying. Some of the added benefits of this books is that the author gives you tips for each recipe and what to pair the recipe with. It also includes whether a recipe is dairy and/or gluten free; vegan or vegetarian.
Italian food is huge in my family and this author promises great tasting Italian made recipes in an easy way. I myself was really impressed with the amount of information and the abundance of how versatile and helpful the contents are.
The only downside I honestly found (I really had to look) is that I would have preferred to have seen more pictures of the cooked recipes. There is only one or two photographs per section and I would have loved to have seen more.
This is an awesome cookbook. Kudos to the author for a job well done.
I would like to thank the Publisher, author and NetGaley for an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion. I can’t wait to see what you do next!
The chapters/sections of this cookbook include: Aperitivi and Appetizers, Soups and Salads, polenta, Risottos and Fritattas, Pastas and Sauces, Pizza, Breads and Focaccia, Vegetables and Legumes, Poultry and Meats, Fish and Seafood and Pastries and Desserts.
There is something for everyone found between the covers of this book.
While I might be biased as I love to cook italian, I can relate to this author as I share an almost identical heritage to her and my parents also grew up in Brooklyn. I also had a myriad of relatives to learn from and I am always looking for traditional recipes that are a slight variation on some of my favorites. I bookmarked a lot of recipes that I will definitely be trying. Some of the added benefits of this books is that the author gives you tips for each recipe and what to pair the recipe with. It also includes whether a recipe is dairy and/or gluten free; vegan or vegetarian.
Italian food is huge in my family and this author promises great tasting Italian made recipes in an easy way. I myself was really impressed with the amount of information and the abundance of how versatile and helpful the contents are.
The only downside I honestly found (I really had to look) is that I would have preferred to have seen more pictures of the cooked recipes. There is only one or two photographs per section and I would have loved to have seen more.
This is an awesome cookbook. Kudos to the author for a job well done.
I would like to thank the Publisher, author and NetGaley for an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion. I can’t wait to see what you do next!
April 29, 2020
I enjoy Italian food and not just spaghetti and the common American Italian variety that you see. This cookbook is full of variety from adult beverages, appetizers, soups and salads, polenta, risottos, and frittatas, pastas and sauces, pizza, breads, and focaccia, vegetables and legumes, poultry and meats, fish and seafood, pastries and desserts.
There is a good section of ingredients common in Italian foods and tells you about the flavor and what it can be used in with recipes. Most of the ingredients in the recipes you should be able to find locally. Some of the specialty cheeses might be a bit costlier for a meal but they would make a nice treat occasionally. A few spices like saffron aren’t practical for most budgets. I love saffron in dishes but it can be a bit pricey. As far the drinks I wasn’t familiar with Campar, Vermouth, or Aperol. I have never heard of any of these before.
One thing I liked about all the recipes is that everyone has a “pair with” and lots of variation tips.
I made one of the desserts Mixed Berry Polenta Cobbler with Whipped Cream. It was beyond fabulous. I also made Pasta with 30-minute Meat Sauce. It was so much better than store bought pasta in a jar and so simple to make.
A nice variety of Italian food recipes that looks fairly easy to make.
I received a copy of this product in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review.
There is a good section of ingredients common in Italian foods and tells you about the flavor and what it can be used in with recipes. Most of the ingredients in the recipes you should be able to find locally. Some of the specialty cheeses might be a bit costlier for a meal but they would make a nice treat occasionally. A few spices like saffron aren’t practical for most budgets. I love saffron in dishes but it can be a bit pricey. As far the drinks I wasn’t familiar with Campar, Vermouth, or Aperol. I have never heard of any of these before.
One thing I liked about all the recipes is that everyone has a “pair with” and lots of variation tips.
I made one of the desserts Mixed Berry Polenta Cobbler with Whipped Cream. It was beyond fabulous. I also made Pasta with 30-minute Meat Sauce. It was so much better than store bought pasta in a jar and so simple to make.
A nice variety of Italian food recipes that looks fairly easy to make.
I received a copy of this product in exchange for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review.
July 8, 2020
I enjoyed this cookbook the recipes are so easy and the photographs are fantastic and really showcase the food.. Except for one that maybe should get swapped out it's not flattering and could possibly be upside down.
This really does need better editing some of the phrasing is awkward and the formatting is not uniform throughout the recipes. I find the reference to food lovers as "eaters" (as an example of awkward wording) a bit odd maybe just say Italian food lovers or something... Eaters just sounds weird but I guess that is mostly a personal opinion since I just haven't really seen that before.
Many areas have similar odd word choices which unfortunately takes away from the overall flow of the book.
Otherwise the recipes are not bad with plenty of choices. Not a stellar cookbook but it does have a nice selection of recipe choices.
I received this book from Callisto Publishing and Rockridge Press for an honest review.
This really does need better editing some of the phrasing is awkward and the formatting is not uniform throughout the recipes. I find the reference to food lovers as "eaters" (as an example of awkward wording) a bit odd maybe just say Italian food lovers or something... Eaters just sounds weird but I guess that is mostly a personal opinion since I just haven't really seen that before.
Many areas have similar odd word choices which unfortunately takes away from the overall flow of the book.
Otherwise the recipes are not bad with plenty of choices. Not a stellar cookbook but it does have a nice selection of recipe choices.
I received this book from Callisto Publishing and Rockridge Press for an honest review.
April 28, 2020
Right now I am very much enjoying exploring cookbooks. Since it is not possible to travel or go out to eat, I love having other ways to think about (and make) good food. This cookbook which features 100 Italian recipes is a delight. If the photos don't make you salivate, I will be surprised.
Start with an Aperol Spritz, move on to crispy artichoke hearts with aioli dip and then have some tortellini in brodo with spinach or maybe a panzanella salad with cucumbers. A few of the other recipes include spaghetti cupcake frittatas, lemony risotto with asparagus or pasta with 30 minute meat sauce, and of course, pizza. Then after fish or poultry or other proteins, don't forget desserts including raspberry mascarpone mini hand pies and Sicilian almost orange cookies among others.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this culinary treat. All opinions are my own.
Start with an Aperol Spritz, move on to crispy artichoke hearts with aioli dip and then have some tortellini in brodo with spinach or maybe a panzanella salad with cucumbers. A few of the other recipes include spaghetti cupcake frittatas, lemony risotto with asparagus or pasta with 30 minute meat sauce, and of course, pizza. Then after fish or poultry or other proteins, don't forget desserts including raspberry mascarpone mini hand pies and Sicilian almost orange cookies among others.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this culinary treat. All opinions are my own.
May 4, 2020
I love to cook, but don't like following complicated recipes. I often make up my own based on the ingredients I have at home! This cookbook really fits the bill for me. The recipes are easy to follow without excessive instructions. The language is simple and easy to understand--the author does not throw around a bunch of terminology that people cooking at home might not know.
Most of the recipes do not require an excessive amount of ingredients and they are easily found at the grocery store. I love how the author provides different tips throughout the book--time saving tips, ingredient tips, and so on. The book opens with a note from the author and some tips on particular ingredients that are important in Italian cooking.
My mouth is watering from reading through these recipes. I can't wait to try a few of them that I might have been hesitant to try before!
Most of the recipes do not require an excessive amount of ingredients and they are easily found at the grocery store. I love how the author provides different tips throughout the book--time saving tips, ingredient tips, and so on. The book opens with a note from the author and some tips on particular ingredients that are important in Italian cooking.
My mouth is watering from reading through these recipes. I can't wait to try a few of them that I might have been hesitant to try before!
May 29, 2020
We love The Easy Italian Cookbook. It has been our go to recipe book. We have tried a bunch of recipes but still have a bunch more marked to try. They really are simple easy recipes. My teens made Dad's Homemade Pizza Dough with no help from me. They have actually made pizza twice using that recipe sine we got the book. We also loved the Pastry Cannoli with Sweet Ricotta Cream. My kids love cannolis, they even made their bearded dragon cannoli. They are very picky with their cannolis and don't just like any cannolis but they loved the cannolis we made with this recipe. I love polenta and had to make all the yummy in this book that involved polenta. All of the recipes are easy to read and follow. There are time-saving tips, technique tips, and pair with recommendations for the recipe. This is a great cookbook and we definitely recommend it.
April 13, 2020
I am very excited to start cooking from this book. It's structured very much like an Italian restaurant menu, with a section for appetizers, soups and salads, pastas, meats, and desserts. A few of the chapters I am particularly interested in are the one about polenta, risottos, and frittatas, along with the vegetables and legumes one. Most of the Italian cookbooks I've seen or have used in the past were pretty much pasta dishes. There are a lot of recipes in this book that aren't centered around pasta, so I'm looking forward to trying something new. There are also several recipes for doughs - pasta, pizza, and focaccia - that I am excited about. *Advance copy provided by the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
March 21, 2021
I received an advance publishers copy.
Desserts and bellinis, I don’t think I need anything else in a cookbook. I tend to find Italian cookbooks difficult to enjoy or get use of because, while I love Italian food, I will never have the mind or energy to make my own pasta (no matter how easy people insist it is). This cookbook based the recipes on several premade items (puff pastry, pasta shells), which is likely where the Easy comes from in the title. The recipes themselves are easy to follow and get right, and the cookbook is divided by course, as opposed to all vegetables together, salads and side vegetables were separate. And lastly, the finished product is some of the best store bought noodles Italian food I’ve ever made.
Desserts and bellinis, I don’t think I need anything else in a cookbook. I tend to find Italian cookbooks difficult to enjoy or get use of because, while I love Italian food, I will never have the mind or energy to make my own pasta (no matter how easy people insist it is). This cookbook based the recipes on several premade items (puff pastry, pasta shells), which is likely where the Easy comes from in the title. The recipes themselves are easy to follow and get right, and the cookbook is divided by course, as opposed to all vegetables together, salads and side vegetables were separate. And lastly, the finished product is some of the best store bought noodles Italian food I’ve ever made.
April 24, 2020
The cover is gorgeous! This book has lots of easy and yummy everyday recipes. I wish there were pictures so I could see how the dishes would look like. There are lots of recipes that I would personally make at home. I enjoyed reading about Italians lifestyle and I was impressed when I read that they eat pizza as a mid-morning snack, very interesting and I can't wait to visit Italy any time soon!
I got an advance reader's copy of this book complimentary from NetGallery in exchange of my honest review.
I got an advance reader's copy of this book complimentary from NetGallery in exchange of my honest review.
May 11, 2020
I started bookmarking recipes when I started reading this cookbook then quickly realized I was marking every page. This cookbook is lovely! It’s put together beautifully, the photos are simple and stunning, and the recipes are drool worthy! These recipes feature healthy, simple, common ingredients. The anecdotes the author included were a beautiful touch. My thanks to the publisher for the advance reader in exchange for my honest review.
June 7, 2020
The recipes in this book are easy to follow and are very appealing to me. I appreciated the assortment of vegetarian options as well the suggested pairings for each meal. I skipped over all of the veal, lamb, and pork recipes since I just don’t consume those things - same with the drink recipes. Overall, looking forward to trying these recipes out!
I received a copy of this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
April 29, 2020
A big thank you to NetGalley and Callisto Media/Rockridge Press for the ARC. I am voluntarily reviewing this book. This is a cook book. I loved the recipes but they remind me that I love on an island in a developing nation! Many of the ingredients are not found here and I can not even grow them. Oh but I can dream. Seemed well done. There are a few I can do so am excited! 4 stars
March 28, 2020
I received a complimentary copy.
Get ready for yum, if you don't have diet restrictions because this book is filled with great recipes. You can modify ingredient for gluten free or other diets I guess but these do not have any modifications.
Get ready for yum, if you don't have diet restrictions because this book is filled with great recipes. You can modify ingredient for gluten free or other diets I guess but these do not have any modifications.
April 24, 2020
This cookbook includes lots of Italian recipes. I'm not sure I'd classify many of the recipes as easy to find ingredients or easy. There were very few recipes that my family would eat unfortunately.
Thank you Callisto Publishing for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review.
Thank you Callisto Publishing for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review.
April 29, 2020
The rest of the book is filled with mouthwatering photos with delicious recipes that are easy to follow. I love how the recipes even suggest with what to pair with (appetizer and entree or etc). I loved this cookbook and recommend for any beginner or anyone who loves cooking.
May 25, 2020
I received this book gratis from the publisher & was excited to see plenty of tasty, varied recipes that are simple enough for even the most novice cook. I'm especially looking forward to trying the crab cakes, the 15 minute sauce, & many of the desserts. The time-saving tips & pairing suggestions are a nice addition.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews