When it comes to Thanksgiving dinner, nothing beats the classics. However, if you’re looking to give your dinner some holiday flair this season, you’ve come to the right place. Join us this month as we share some of our favorite Italian-inspired recipes to try out this Thanksgiving. And in the meantime, when you’re craving some of the best Italian food around, you’re always welcome to join us at Lo Conte’s!
Pumpkin Risotto
Celebrate the season with a creamy and comforting pumpkin risotto. Incorporate roasted or pureed pumpkin into the risotto along with a hint of nutmeg and Parmesan cheese. You’ll also need chicken or vegetable broth, onion, garlic, white wine, parmesan cheese, nutmeg, butter, and fresh sage for garnishing!
Butternut Squash Lasagna
Swap traditional meat lasagna for a fall-inspired version featuring layers of butternut squash, ricotta cheese, and a savory marinara sauce. Thinly slice butternut squash, roast until tender, and layer between lasagna noodles with a mixture of ricotta, Parmesan, and a touch of nutmeg. Top with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden, finishing with fresh basil.
Autumn Panzanella Salad
Give the classic Italian bread salad a twist by adding roasted acorn squash, apples, and toasted pecans. Toss these ingredients with crusty bread, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing and colorful salad. Don’t forget the olive oil drizzle!
Chestnut and Sausage Stuffing
Incorporate the earthy flavor of chestnuts into your stuffing for a uniquely Italian touch. Sauté Italian sausage until browned, then add chopped onions, celery, chestnuts, and fresh sage. Combine the sausage mixture with cubed rustic bread in a baking dish. Pour over chicken broth until the bread is moist but not soggy. Bake until golden brown and crispy on top.
Apple and Gorgonzola Crostini
Create a simple appetizer by topping crostini with slices of crisp apple, creamy Gorgonzola cheese, and a drizzle of honey. The combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors makes these bite-sized delights a perfect prelude to the Thanksgiving feast!
Mushroom and Fontina Pizza
Enjoy the bounty of fall mushrooms with a pizza featuring a rich and melty blend of Fontina and mozzarella cheeses. Roll out pizza dough and spread with a mixture of Fontina and mozzarella cheeses. Sauté mixed mushrooms with garlic and fresh thyme until tender. Top the pizza with the sautéed mushrooms and bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted.
Roasted Fennel and Pear Salad
Roast slices of fennel and pear until caramelized, then toss them with arugula, goat cheese, and a light lemon vinaigrette. This refreshing salad provides a crisp and flavorful contrast to the heartier dishes on your Thanksgiving table.
Get the Best Authentic Italian Food at Lo Conte’s!
If we’ve sparked your cravings for delicious Italian food after this blog, we encourage you to stop in and dine with us! To discover all of our food options, check out our online menu or order online. We look forward to seeing you!