Get ready to taste the flavors of Italy with our collection of 20 authentic Tuscan recipes! From hearty soups and stews to classic salads, flavorful pasta dishes, and sweet treats, we’ve got you covered. Tuscany is known for its rich culinary heritage, and we’re excited to share some of the region’s most beloved dishes with you.
In this article, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey through Tuscany, exploring recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for comfort food, quick weeknight meals, or show-stopping special occasion dishes, our Tuscan recipe collection has something for everyone.
So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
Tuscan Ribollita Soup
This hearty Italian soup is a staple of Tuscan cuisine, made with vegetables, bread, and cannellini beans. Perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup diced bread (day-old)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in olive oil until tender.
2. Add the cannellini beans, vegetable broth, and bread. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Classic Tuscan Panzanella Salad
This iconic Italian salad, also known as bread soup, is a summer staple that combines the freshest ingredients with the humblest of breads. With its creamy tomatoes and crispy croutons, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Toss bread cubes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and toast for 10-12 minutes or until crispy.
3. In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, garlic, basil, and toasted bread.
4. Drizzle remaining 1/4 cup olive oil over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuscan Bean and Kale Stew
This hearty stew is a classic Italian dish that combines tender beans, kale, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch, it’s also an excellent way to use up leftover vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried cannellini beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 bunch kale, stems removed and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until tender, about 8 minutes.
2. Add the soaked cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the beans are tender.
3. Stir in the chopped kale and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes or until wilted.
4. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Simple Tuscan Grilled Fish
Experience the classic flavors of Tuscany with this effortless grilled fish recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (cod, tilapia or mahi-mahi work well)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 lemon, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the fish fillets.
4. Place the fish on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon juice.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Garlic Chicken
A rich and flavorful dish that combines the savory taste of garlic with the creaminess of a velvety sauce, all wrapped up in tender chicken breasts. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 6 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium-low.
4. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in Parmesan cheese and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve chicken breasts with the creamy garlic sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuscan White Bean Dip with Rosemary
This classic Italian dip is a staple of Tuscan cuisine, and adding the fragrance of rosemary elevates it to new heights. Perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine beans, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Blend until smooth.
3. Stir in chopped rosemary leaves.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including preparation time)
Rustic Tuscan Bread Soup
Savor the flavors of Italy with this hearty and comforting bread soup. This rustic Tuscan dish is perfect for a chilly evening or as a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, torn into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 celery stalk, sliced
– 6 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add the bread, broth, and tomatoes; bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and cook for 10-12 minutes or until the bread is fully absorbed and the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese; season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuscan Roasted Pork with Herbs
This classic Italian recipe yields a tender and flavorful roasted pork dish, infused with the aromas of Tuscan herbs. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy Sunday dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 kg boneless pork shoulder
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 lemon, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the pork in a large roasting pan and roast for 2-1/2 hours or until tender and caramelized.
5. If using lemon slices, place them on top of the pork during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Homemade Tuscan Pici Pasta
Experience the authentic flavors of Tuscany with this classic homemade pici pasta recipe. Made from simple ingredients and minimal effort, this dish is perfect for a cozy evening or as a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– Water, as needed
– Extra virgin olive oil, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the egg.
3. Gradually incorporate the flour into the egg using a fork until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let rest for at least 30 minutes.
6. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces and roll out each piece into long, thin strands (about 1/8 inch thick).
7. Cook the pici pasta in boiling salted water for 2-3 minutes, or until al dente.
8. Serve with your favorite sauce, drizzled with olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Tuscan Tomato and Bread Soup
This hearty soup is a classic Italian recipe that combines fresh tomatoes, crusty bread, and savory herbs to create a comforting and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup crusty bread, cubed
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and bread cubes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the bread is fully absorbed.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Traditional Tuscan Cacciucco Seafood Stew
This hearty stew originated in the coastal towns of Tuscany, where fresh seafood was plentiful. This recipe honors that tradition with a flavorful and aromatic dish perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb mixed seafood (shrimp, mussels, clams, scallops)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup white wine
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the mixed seafood, white wine, crushed tomatoes, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the seafood is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tuscan Farro Salad with Vegetables
This hearty salad combines the nutty flavor of farro with roasted vegetables and a tangy dressing, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked farro
– 2 cups mixed roasted vegetables (such as zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and onions)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the mixed vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked farro, roasted vegetables, parsley, and goat cheese (if using).
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Tuscan Lemon Ricotta Cake
Experience the bright flavors of Tuscany with this moist and airy lemon ricotta cake, perfect for a springtime dessert or afternoon snack. This recipe combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the tangy zest of fresh lemons.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Zest of 1 lemon, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and melted butter until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, whisking until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Allow cake to cool completely before serving. Garnish with lemon zest.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Tuscan Wild Boar Ragu
A hearty and rich pasta sauce made with tender wild boar, onions, garlic, and tomatoes, perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 500g wild boar ragù (or beef or pork as a substitute)
– 2 medium onions, finely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup of red wine
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the wild boar ragù (or substitute) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Add the chopped tomatoes, red wine, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
6. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve over cooked pasta, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuscan Roasted Pepper Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful and visually stunning Tuscan Roasted Pepper Crostini. Sweet roasted peppers, creamy goat cheese, and fresh herbs come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bell peppers (any color)
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place bell peppers on a baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until charred.
3. Remove peppers from the oven and let cool. Peel off skin, discarding it, and slice into strips.
4. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet. Brush with olive oil and top each with a roasted pepper strip, crumbled goat cheese, and chopped herbs.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Tuscan Zucchini and Pecorino Tart
Tuscan Zucchini and Pecorino Tart Recipe
This rustic tart combines the flavors of Italy’s Tuscany region with a sweet and savory twist. Fresh zucchini, pecorino cheese, and a hint of garlic create a deliciously simple yet satisfying dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/8-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup pecorino cheese, crumbled
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a bowl, mix together zucchini slices, pecorino cheese, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Arrange the zucchini mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or square shape.
6. Brush the pastry with olive oil and sprinkle with chopped basil leaves (if using).
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tuscan Sausage and Beans
A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish that combines the richness of Tuscan sausage with the comfort of creamy beans. This recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Tuscany-style sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup small white beans (such as cannellini or navy), drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, beans, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuscan Chestnut Flour Pancakes
Tuscan Chestnut Flour Pancakes Recipe
Start your day with a delicious Italian twist on classic pancakes using chestnut flour, an ancient grain rich in fiber and nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup chestnut flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together chestnut flour, eggs, milk, salt, and sugar.
2. Add olive oil and mix until smooth batter forms.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
4. Drop 1/4 cupfuls of batter onto the skillet.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 8-10 minutes per batch, serving 4-6 pancakes.
Tuscan Stuffed Artichokes
This recipe brings together the rich flavors of Tuscany with the simplicity of artichoke stuffing. With just a few ingredients and some easy steps, you’ll be enjoying these delicious stuffed artichokes in no time!
Ingredients:
– 4 large artichokes
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut off the stems of the artichokes and remove any tough leaves.
3. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each artichoke with the breadcrumb mixture, filling the center of each one.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the artichokes and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
6. Place the stuffed artichokes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the leaves can be easily pulled off.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Tuscan Stuffed Artichokes!
Tuscan Olive Oil Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is a staple of Tuscan cuisine, made with high-quality olive oil and topped with a crunchy almond streusel. Perfect for serving with a cup of coffee or as a sweet treat any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary leaves (optional)
– Streusel topping: 1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, milk, eggs, and rosemary leaves (if using).
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and whisk until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cake to cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to taste the authentic flavors of Tuscany with these 20 mouth-watering recipes! From hearty soups like Ribollita and Bread Soup, to fresh salads like Panzanella and Farro, there’s something for every occasion. Savor the rich flavors of grilled fish, chicken, and pork, or indulge in creamy dips and decadent cakes. Try your hand at homemade pasta, seafood stews, and rustic breads, or explore the region’s love for wild boar ragu, zucchini tarts, and chestnut flour pancakes. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to spice up your meal routine, these Tuscan recipes are sure to delight!
Leave a Reply