What are the foundations of Italian cooking?

Italian cooking is built on fresh, quality ingredients, simple techniques, and respecting each ingredient's natural flavours. Regional variations exist, but the philosophy stays consistent: enhance, don't mask, and cook with intention.

Why is Italian pasta-making an art?

The sauce-to-pasta ratio, texture, and cooking technique all matter immensely in Italian cuisine. Different pasta shapes pair with specific sauces, and proper 'al dente' cooking (slightly firm) is essential. Timing and technique make or break the dish.

Can I use fresh pasta instead of dried pasta?

Yes, but they're different. Fresh pasta cooks in 2-3 minutes and suits cream or butter sauces, while dried pasta is heartier and works with robust sauces. Both are traditional depending on the region and dish.

Best Italian Recipes

Feb 24
1 min read

Italian cuisine is built on simple, seasonal ingredients, regional traditions, and an instinctive love of good food. These are the best Italian recipes on jonashton.com — a collection that covers the full breadth of one of the world's great culinary traditions.

Spaghetti Carbonara

Rome's silky, egg-rich pasta — made correctly with guanciale and without a drop of cream. One of the great Italian pasta dishes. Get the full Spaghetti Carbonara recipe →

Spaghetti alle Vongole

Coastal Italian cooking at its best — clams, garlic, wine, and parsley over perfectly al dente spaghetti. Get the full Spaghetti alle Vongole recipe →

Ragu alla Bolognese

Bologna's iconic slow-cooked meat sauce — the definitive ragu, made with patience and love. Get the full Ragu alla Bolognese recipe →

Risotto Milanese

Milan's golden, saffron-scented risotto — creamy, elegant, and a masterclass in Italian rice cookery. Get the full Risotto Milanese recipe →

Eggplant Parmigiana

Layers of fried aubergine, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese — one of Italy's greatest vegetarian dishes. Get the full Eggplant Parmigiana recipe →

Seafood Risotto

Venetian-style seafood risotto — creamy Arborio rice loaded with fresh prawns, mussels, and clams. Get the full Seafood Risotto recipe →

Crispy Chicken Parmesan

The Italian-American classic — breaded chicken cutlets with marinara and melted mozzarella. A genuine crowd-pleaser. Get the full Crispy Chicken Parmesan recipe →