Air fryer calzones are a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, merging convenience with flavour. These golden parcels, typically stuffed with a scrumptious mix of ricotta, mozzarella, and your choice of fillings—be it pepperoni, spinach, or roasted vegetables—are remarkably simple to prepare. The air fryer circulates hot air, creating a crispy outer crust while keeping the inside beautifully gooey.
To whip up a batch, begin by rolling out your dough into circles, adding generous spoonfuls of filling in the centre, and folding them over to form half-moon shapes. A quick brush of olive oil on the surface enhances the browning process. Cook them in the air fryer for around 10 to 15 minutes, and you’ll be rewarded with a satisfying crunch and a deliciously melty centre. Serve them piping hot with a side of marinara sauce for dipping, and you have a perfect snack or light meal that’s sure to impress.
The Instant Pot Lemon Saffron Risotto is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish, effortlessly merging the creamy comfort of risotto with a zesty citrus punch and the aromatic allure of saffron. As the pressure cooker works its magic, the rice absorbs the luscious flavours of vegetable broth, white wine, and a hint of garlic, transforming into a perfectly al dente base.
The addition of saffron threads lends a warm golden hue, while fresh lemon juice and zest brighten the dish, creating a harmonious balance of rich and refreshing notes. Finished with a generous handful of grated Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil, this risotto is not only a feast for the palate but also an impressive centrepiece for any dinner table. Serve it warm with a scattering of parsley for a touch of colour, and enjoy a taste of Italy from the comfort of your home.
The Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce is a creaminess that tantalises the palate with its indulgent richness. This delectable blend of butter, garlic, and parmesan cheese creates a velvety texture that coats pasta beautifully, elevating even the simplest of dishes. As you whisk together the ingredients, the aroma of garlic wafts through the air, promising a comforting meal that recalls the warmth of an Italian trattoria. Perfectly seasoned with a hint of nutmeg and perhaps a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper, this sauce serves as a delightful homage to Olive Garden’s signature offering. Whether served over fettuccine or drizzled atop grilled chicken, this copycat recipe is sure to become a cherished staple in kitchens across the nation.
The Instant Pot Minestrone Soup is a delightful and hearty dish that beautifully marries convenience with rich, comforting flavours. With just a few ingredients, including fresh vegetables, tender pasta, and aromatic herbs, this one-pot meal can be ready in no time. The electric pressure cooker infuses the broth with flavour, while the tender vegetables meld perfectly to create a warm, nourishing bowl of goodness.
To prepare, simply sauté onions, garlic, and your choice of vegetables directly in the pot, allowing their aromas to mingle. Then, add diced tomatoes, vegetable stock, and a medley of beans for protein, before tossing in small pasta shapes. Once the lid is secured and the Instant Pot is set, it works its magic, delivering a rich and fulfilling minestrone that rivals slow-cooked versions, but in a fraction of the time. Serve it with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch of indulgence. Perfect for a chilly evening, this soup is sure to warm both heart and soul.
Discover the versatility of passata with these seven delightful recipes that highlight its rich, tangy flavour.
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Creamy Tomato Soup: Start your day on a comforting note with a classic creamy tomato soup. Sauté onions and garlic, then add passata, vegetable stock, and a splash of double cream. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying lunch.
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Pasta Arrabbiata: Spice things up with a fiery arrabbiata sauce. Combine passata with garlic, red chilli flakes, and olive oil. Toss with al dente pasta and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and Parmesan.
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Shakshuka: For a hearty brunch, try shakshuka. Simmer passata with bell peppers, onions, and spices, then crack eggs into the mixture. Cover until the eggs are set and serve with warm pita bread.
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Tomato and Basil Risotto: Elevate your risotto by using passata instead of stock. Slowly add to Arborio rice with onions and garlic, stirring until creamy. Stir in fresh basil and a generous helping of Parmesan just before serving.
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Stuffed Peppers: Create a vibrant dish by filling bell peppers with a mixture of cooked rice, minced beef, and passata. Bake until the peppers are tender, and enjoy with a side salad.
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Pizza Margherita: Whip up a classic pizza topped with passata, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves. Bake until the cheese bubbles and the crust is golden for an authentic Italian experience.
- Baked Eggplant Parmesan: Layer sliced, roasted eggplants with passata, mozzarella, and Parmesan before baking until bubbly and golden. This dish is perfect for a cosy dinner with friends.
These recipes showcase the wonderful adaptability of passata, transforming simple ingredients into delicious meals that are sure to please every palate.
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Tortellini Caprese Salad is a delightful fusion of Italian flavours, bringing together tender cheese-filled tortellini, fresh tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella. The addition of fragrant basil and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil elevates the dish, making it perfect for a light lunch or a vibrant side. This salad not only showcases the beloved Caprese combination but also offers a satisfying pasta element, ensuring a wonderful balance of textures and tastes. Ideal for warm days or as a colourful party dish, Tortellini Caprese Salad is sure to impress with its simple yet delicious appeal.
Indulging in a hearty Bolognese sauce has never been easier, thanks to the Instant Pot. This Easy Instant Pot Bolognese sauce recipe combines the classic flavours of rich minced beef, aromatic onions, and fragrant herbs, all simmered to perfection in a fraction of the time. Start by sautéing onions and garlic until they become beautifully soft and fragrant. Then, add the minced beef, allowing it to brown to develop a robust depth of flavour.
Once your meat is nicely browned, stir in ripe tomatoes, a generous splash of red wine, and a hint of Italian seasoning. Seal the lid and set your Instant Pot to pressure cook for 30 minutes. The result is a velvety sauce that's bursting with flavour, perfect for tossing with freshly cooked pasta or serving over creamy polenta.
Finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a scattering of basil leaves for that authentic touch. This comforting dish is not just quick to prepare; it’s also an ideal way to impress family and friends during dinner. With minimal effort and maximum flavour, this Bolognese sauce will soon become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Nestled in a delicate glass, the Salted Caramel Panna Cotta entices with its luxurious, creamy texture, shimmering under a glossy layer of rich caramel. Each spoonful melts effortlessly, revealing the perfect balance between sweetness and a subtle hint of salt that lingers on the palate. Crowned with a delightful scattering of praline—crispy shards of caramelised nuts that add a satisfying crunch—the dessert is a symphony of flavours and textures. With every bite, the buttery aroma of toasted sugar mingles with the velvety panna cotta, creating an indulgent treat that is both sophisticated and utterly comforting. It's the perfect finale to any meal, inviting you to relish the moment and savour the sweet indulgence.
Baked Eggplant Parmesan is a delightful vegetarian dish that showcases the rich flavours of layers of tender, baked eggplant, marinara sauce, and cheesy goodness. This Italian-inspired classic features slices of aubergine, coated in breadcrumbs and lightly baked until golden, then complemented by a generous helping of tangy tomato sauce and a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. The result is a comforting, wholesome meal that is both hearty and satisfying, perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. Serve it with a side salad and crusty bread for an unforgettable feast that everyone will enjoy.
Lasagna Soup – an organised chaos of flavours and textures that evokes the rich, comforting essence of the classic Italian dish while introducing a delightful twist. As a simmering pot bubbles away on the stove, the aroma of garlic and onions sautéing mingles with the scent of ripe tomatoes and herbs, creating a warm embrace that beckons you closer.
Noodles, broken into rugged pieces, dance among crumbled ricotta and a scattering of mozzarella, their shapes hinting at the traditional layers of lasagna but free from the confines of a baking dish. Each spoonful is a revelation, marrying the hearty richness of pasta with the luscious, brothy goodness that seeps into every crevice. Top it off with a sprinkle of fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil, and the chaotic assembly transforms into a bowl of comforting delight. In this dish, the beauty lies in its delightful disorder – a culinary experience that warms the heart and fills the belly with all the cherished flavours of home.

