An egg on toast is so simple and so perfect that I can understand all those who might cry, “Don’t muck with it!”

Tender lettuce, basil, and a light lemony dressing—beautifully compliment fresh mozzarella, the star in this dish.

This classic dish—similar to Italian arancini—is easy to make, yet attractive enough to serve at a party.

No-boil lasagne noodles are a lifesaver: They can turn what’s often perceived as a party dish into a practical weeknight supper.

If you are a fan of pumpkin-stuffed ravioli with sage butter—an Italian classic—think of the pasta dish below as its less-demanding cousin.

Homemade stock will make any risotto fabulous. Here, the delicate, springlike combination of leeks and peas is given texture and heft with the addition of calamari, turning it into a main course. ...

The pan sauce for these scallopini—chopped tomatoes, white wine, chicken broth, olives, and basil—is bright and interesting, yet very comforting.