Festive Italian Feasts: Christmas Dinner Recipes

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Christmas in Italy is a time of warmth, family, and, of course, incredible food. The aroma of simmering sauces, the crispness of roasted meats, and the sweetness of holiday desserts fill the air. Inspired by this rich culinary heritage, I’ve crafted a dish that pays homage to Italian traditions while adding a modern twist.

Dish Title: Festive Forchetta

Ingredients:

Traditional Italian Christmas Dinner Ideas
Traditional Italian Christmas Dinner Ideas

Image Source: hearstapps.com

For the Sauce:

  • 1 cup dried porcini mushrooms, soaked in warm water
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Meat:
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, pounded thin
  • 1 pound prosciutto di Parma, thinly sliced
  • 1 pound fresh mozzarella, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • All-purpose flour for dredging
  • Extra virgin olive oil for frying
  • For Serving:
  • Pasta of your choice (like tagliatelle or pappardelle)
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese

    • Preparation Process:

    1. Prepare the Sauce:

  • Drain the porcini mushrooms, reserving the soaking liquid.
  • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  • Add the porcini mushrooms and cook for 2 more minutes.
  • Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
  • Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the sauce is thickened and flavorful.

    • 2. Assemble the Chicken:

  • Lay out a sheet of plastic wrap. Place a chicken breast on the plastic wrap. Top with prosciutto, mozzarella, and basil. Roll up tightly and secure with toothpicks.
  • Dredge the rolled chicken in flour, shaking off any excess.

    • 3. Cook the Chicken:

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the chicken rolls until golden brown on all sides.
  • Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.

    • 4. Cook the Pasta:

  • Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and reserve 1 cup of pasta water.

    • 5. Combine and Serve:

  • Add the cooked chicken rolls to the sauce and simmer for a few minutes to heat through.
  • Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce and chicken. Add a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
  • Serve immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

    • Total Time: Approximately 3 hours

    Serving Ideas:

    Classic: Serve the pasta with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

  • Modern: Plate the pasta in individual bowls and garnish with fresh basil and microgreens.
  • Festive: Serve the dish in a large, shared platter, family-style.

    • This dish is a celebration of Italian culinary traditions, blending the rich flavors of Tuscany with the simplicity of Southern Italian cuisine. The hearty sauce, the tender chicken, and the flavorful pasta come together to create a truly memorable meal. As you savor each bite, you’ll be transported to the heart of Italy, experiencing the warmth and joy of the holiday season.