Antipasto Platter
Start your Italian Christmas dinner with an antipasto platter that really sets the mood. Picture a table loaded with paper-thin slices of prosciutto, spicy salami, and mortadella. Toss in wedges of Parmigiano-Reggiano, creamy mozzarella, and provolone. Then there are the marinated extras—olives, artichokes, sun-dried tomatoes—and a scatter of fresh veggies. Add some crispy breadsticks or slices of focaccia, and honestly, you’ve got a spread that grabs everyone’s attention before the main event even begins.
Cozze Gratinate (Baked Mussels)
Seafood takes center stage at an Italian Christmas, especially on Christmas Eve for families who stick to the “Feast of the Seven Fishes.” Cozze gratinate—baked mussels—fit right in. You stuff fresh mussels with a mix of breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, and good olive oil, then bake them until they’re golden and crisp. The result? Tender seafood, a bit of crunch, and a dish that feels both classic and special. Serve them as an appetizer or as part of your seafood course; either way, they disappear fast.
Lasagna Bolognese
Nothing says Christmas in northern Italy like a hearty lasagna Bolognese. This isn’t your weeknight lasagna—it’s layers of fresh pasta, slow-cooked meat ragu, silky béchamel, and plenty of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano. When you bake it, everything comes together in a bubbling, cheesy, comforting masterpiece. It’s rich, a little over the top, and exactly what you want for a holiday main dish.
Tortellini in Brodo (Tortellini in Broth)
In Emilia-Romagna, Christmas means tortellini in brodo. These tiny, meat-filled pasta are served in a clear, flavorful broth—usually beef or chicken. It’s simple but elegant, letting the quality of the pasta and broth shine. Light enough to leave room for more food, but still so satisfying, it always earns a spot on the holiday table.
Arrosto di Vitello (Roast Veal)
Roast veal, or arrosto di vitello, brings a touch of elegance to Christmas dinner. The veal gets a good rub with garlic, rosemary, and olive oil, then roasts until it’s perfectly tender and juicy. Pair it with roasted potatoes or seasonal veggies, and the whole thing just feels festive and a little bit fancy—without being fussy.
Polenta with Mushroom Ragu
Polenta is Italian comfort food at its best. For Christmas, give it a boost with a mushroom ragu made from wild mushrooms, garlic, onions, and fresh herbs. The mushrooms add a deep, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy polenta. It’s hearty, warming, and works great as a side—or as a vegetarian main for guests who skip the meat.
Pesce al Forno (Baked Fish)
In Italy’s coastal regions, a baked whole fish is a Christmas must-have. Branzino or orata work well—just stuff the fish with fresh herbs, lemon, maybe a few cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of olive oil. Baking it whole keeps the fish moist and full of flavor. Serve it right from the oven, and it becomes a show-stopping centerpiece for Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.
Stuffed Artichokes
Stuffed artichokes bring something special to the table. Italian families fill them with a mix of breadcrumbs, garlic, parsley, and Parmesan, then bake until the leaves turn tender and the stuffing soaks up all the flavor. They work as a side next to meat or stand alone as a vegetable dish. Either way, they offer a unique taste and texture that feels just right for the holidays.
Panettone
You can’t have an Italian Christmas without panettone. This sweet bread from Milan is light, airy, and packed with raisins and candied orange peel. The flavor is just sweet enough, with a hint of citrus. Some people serve it with mascarpone or whipped cream, but it’s pretty great on its own. Panettone’s soft texture and delicate taste make it the perfect way to wrap up a big meal.
Torrone
To finish things off, bring out the torrone. This classic Italian nougat is chewy, crunchy, and sweet, thanks to honey, sugar, egg whites, and lots of nuts—usually almonds or hazelnuts. Sometimes you’ll find it with chocolate or pistachios mixed in. Cut it into small pieces, pass it around, and watch it disappear. It’s a Christmas tradition that everyone looks forward to.
