10+ Gluten Free Recipes Italian: Delicious Dishes for Everyone to Enjoy!

Italian cuisine has rich flavors and comforting dishes. If you are avoiding gluten, you might think enjoying these meals is challenging. However, there are plenty of delicious gluten-free Italian recipes that can bring the taste of Italy to your kitchen without the gluten.

With a variety of options, you can savor classic dishes like pasta and pizza while sticking to your dietary needs. Experimenting with gluten-free ingredients allows you to enjoy traditional favorites and explore new flavors. Whether you are cooking for yourself or hosting friends, these recipes will please your palate and keep everyone satisfied.

Gluten-Free Pesto Pasta

Making gluten-free pesto pasta is easy and delicious. You can have a tasty meal ready in no time. The key is to use gluten-free pasta, which is widely available.

For the pesto, fresh basil leaves are a must for a great flavor. You will also need garlic, olive oil, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese. If you want a dairy-free version, simply skip the cheese or use a substitute.

Start by cooking the gluten-free pasta according to the package instructions. While it’s cooking, prepare the pesto. Blend the basil, garlic, pine nuts, and olive oil until smooth. Then, mix in the cheese if using.

Once the pasta is ready, drain it and toss it with the pesto. This dish works well as a main meal or a side. Enjoy your flavorful, homemade gluten-free pesto pasta!

Ingredients

• 8 oz gluten-free pasta
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions.
2. In a blender, combine basil, garlic, and pine nuts.
3. Slowly add olive oil while blending until smooth.
4. Mix in Parmesan cheese if desired.
5. Toss cooked pasta with pesto sauce until well coated.

2) Risotto with Saffron

Risotto with saffron is a classic Italian dish that is both creamy and flavorful. This dish is naturally gluten-free, making it a wonderful option for those with dietary restrictions.

To start, you will need Arborio rice. This rice is specially chosen for its ability to absorb liquid and create that perfect creamy texture.

Saffron gives the risotto its beautiful golden color and a unique taste. You can sauté onions in olive oil to enhance the flavors, then add the rice. Slowly mix in warm chicken or vegetable broth, letting the rice absorb it gradually.

This dish pairs well with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of vegan cheese for added richness.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 3/4 cup Arborio rice
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
• 2 3/4 cups hot gluten-free chicken or vegetable broth

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and sauté until soft.
3. Stir in Arborio rice, coating it with oil.
4. Add saffron threads and slowly pour in the broth.
5. Stir frequently until the rice is creamy and tender.

3) Polenta with Mushroom Sauce

Polenta with mushroom sauce is a hearty gluten-free dish that is easy to make. The creamy texture of the polenta pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the mushrooms.

To start, you will cook the polenta until it becomes smooth and creamy. You can use yellow cornmeal for this, as it is naturally gluten-free.

Next, prepare your mushroom sauce. Sauté fresh mushrooms in olive oil until they are tender. Add some garlic and herbs to boost the flavor.

Once both components are ready, serve the polenta in a bowl and spoon the delicious mushroom sauce on top. This dish is comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 cup yellow cornmeal
• 4 cups water or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh herbs (like thyme or parsley)

Cooking Instructions

1. Boil water or broth in a pot.
2. Gradually add cornmeal, stirring constantly.
3. Cook on low heat until creamy (about 15 minutes).
4. In a pan, heat olive oil and sauté mushrooms.
5. Add garlic and cook for another 2 minutes.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs.
7. Serve polenta topped with mushroom sauce.

4) Gluten-Free Gnocchi

Making gluten-free gnocchi is simple and fun. You can enjoy a delicious Italian dish that fits your dietary needs.

For this recipe, you’ll use starchy potatoes and gluten-free flour. The combination helps create a soft, bouncy texture. A great option is to use a mix of rice flour and tapioca flour for the best results.

Start by boiling your peeled and chopped potatoes until they are fork-tender. Then, drain well and mash them. Mix in your gluten-free flour until a dough forms.

Once you have your dough, shape it into a tube and cut it into small pieces. Roll each piece to create the classic gnocchi shape.

You can then cook the gnocchi by boiling them in salted water until they float to the surface. Serve with your favorite sauce!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds (about 900 grams) Russet potatoes
• 1½ cups (180 grams) gluten-free flour

Cooking Instructions

1. Peel and chop the potatoes.
2. Boil the potatoes for about 15 minutes, until fork-tender.
3. Drain the potatoes and mash them.
4. Mix in gluten-free flour to form a dough.
5. Shape the dough into a tube and cut into pieces.
6. Roll each piece on a fork for ridges.
7. Boil gnocchi until they float, then serve.

5) Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan is a delicious Italian dish that you can enjoy without gluten. This recipe substitutes traditional breading with other flavors that let the eggplant shine. You’ll love the mix of rich tomato sauce and gooey cheese.

To start, slice the eggplant and salt it to draw out moisture. This helps to enhance its flavor and texture. After a short wait, rinse and pat it dry.

Then, layer the eggplant with marinara sauce and cheeses in your baking dish. You can use mozzarella and Parmesan for a classic taste. Bake at 375°F (190°C) until it’s golden and bubbly.

This dish is naturally vegetarian. If you want it to be vegan, substitute dairy-free cheese.

Ingredients

• 2 medium eggplants
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil
• Salt

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the eggplant and sprinkle with salt. Let sit for 30 minutes, then rinse and dry.
3. In a baking dish, layer eggplant slices, marinara sauce, and cheeses.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 30 to 40 minutes. Enjoy!

6) Gluten-Free Tiramisu

You can enjoy a classic Italian dessert with this gluten-free tiramisu. This recipe uses gluten-free ladyfingers and rich mascarpone cream. The combination is both delicious and satisfying.

Start by soaking the ladyfingers in espresso. This gives them a lovely coffee flavor. Layer the soaked ladyfingers with mascarpone mixture.

Dust the top with cocoa powder for that perfect finish. It’s simple, yet elegant enough for any occasion.

You’ll find that this dessert is a crowd-pleaser. Everyone will enjoy it, even those who are not gluten-free.

Ingredients

• 1 cup (240 ml) espresso, cooled
• 24 gluten-free ladyfingers
• 1 cup (240 ml) mascarpone cheese
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 1/3 cup (40 g) cocoa powder
• 1/2 cup (100 g) sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cooking Instructions

1. Dip ladyfingers in cooled espresso for a few seconds.
2. In a bowl, mix mascarpone, cream, sugar, and vanilla to a smooth blend.
3. Layer soaked ladyfingers and mascarpone mixture in a dish.
4. Repeat layers and finish with mascarpone.
5. Chill for at least 4 hours.
6. Before serving, dust with cocoa powder. Enjoy!

7) Lentil Bolognese

Lentil Bolognese is a delicious and hearty sauce perfect for any pasta. It’s a great choice if you want a vegan and gluten-free meal that everyone can enjoy.

To start, sauté onions, carrots, and celery in a pot with olive oil. This adds a sweet and savory base to the sauce. After about 6 minutes, you can add garlic for extra flavor. Then mix in the lentils, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce.

Let everything simmer until the lentils are cooked through and tender. This usually takes about 20-25 minutes. Stir in some herbs like oregano and basil for a fresh taste.

Serve your Lentil Bolognese over gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a lighter option.

Ingredients

• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup lentils, rinsed
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Sauté onion, carrot, and celery for about 6 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Stir in lentils, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce.
5. Simmer for 20-25 minutes until lentils are tender.
6. Add oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve over gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles.

8) Minestrone Soup

Minestrone soup is a hearty and warming dish perfect for any meal. You can load it with fresh vegetables and delicious flavors. Best of all, you can easily make it gluten-free.

Start by sautéing a base of onions, carrots, and celery. Then, add in your choice of seasonal vegetables. You can include zucchini, kale, or even spinach for added nutrition. Don’t forget to choose quality gluten-free pasta for the right texture.

The soup gets its rich flavor from spices like oregano and thyme. Let it simmer so all the tastes blend together. Then, adjust the seasonings to your liking before serving.

Ingredients

• 1 can gluten-free diced tomatoes (28 ounces)
• 4 cups gluten-free vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon marjoram
• 1/4 teaspoon thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon rosemary
• 1/4 teaspoon sage
• 1 large handful of Italian parsley
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup gluten-free pasta of choice

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened.
3. Add diced tomatoes, broth, and spices.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Stir in the gluten-free pasta and cook until tender.
6. Add parsley and taste. Adjust seasonings as needed.

9) Caprese Salad

Caprese salad is a classic Italian dish that’s simple and delicious. It features fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. This salad is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for everyone.

To start, choose ripe tomatoes for the best flavor. Slice them and layer them with fresh mozzarella. Add whole basil leaves for a pop of color and taste. Drizzle extra virgin olive oil on top to enhance the flavors.

For a tangy kick, you can add balsamic vinegar. This adds a lovely contrast to the salad. Serve it cold or at room temperature.

Ingredients

• 4 large ripe tomatoes
• 1 lb. fresh mozzarella cheese
• 1 bunch fresh basil leaves
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Optional: balsamic vinegar

Cooking Instructions

1. Wash the tomatoes and basil leaves.
2. Slice the tomatoes and mozzarella cheese.
3. Layer the tomato slices, mozzarella, and basil on a plate.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh Caprese salad!

10) Zucchini Noodles with Marinara

Zucchini noodles are a fantastic gluten-free alternative to traditional pasta. They are easy to make and pair perfectly with marinara sauce. This dish is fresh, light, and full of flavor.

To create zucchini noodles, use a vegetable peeler and slice long strips from the zucchini. You can also use a spiralizer for a fun shape. Just make sure to stop before reaching the seedy core.

For the marinara, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat (350°F or 175°C). Then, sauté diced onions, salt, and pepper for about one minute. After that, add chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, garlic, and your favorite herbs. Bring this mixture to a light boil.

Toss your noodles in the marinara sauce and enjoy immediately. If you have leftovers, store the sauce and noodles separately for better freshness.

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchinis
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups chopped tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh herbs (like basil or oregano)

Cooking Instructions

1. Make zucchini noodles using a vegetable peeler or spiralizer.

2. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat (350°F or 175°C).

3. Sauté onions with salt and pepper for 1 minute.

4. Add tomatoes, tomato paste, garlic, and herbs. Bring to a light boil.

5. Toss zucchini noodles in the marinara sauce and serve.