Italian cuisine is all about warmth, love, and delicious flavors, making it the perfect choice for your holiday gathering. Imagine filling your table with vibrant colors and mouth-watering aromas that invite everyone to indulge. Let’s discover some irresistible Italian side dishes that will surely impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds!
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Amazing CRISPY Parmesan Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts from RecipeTin Eats
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: 4, 9(31)
These little green gems are transformed into a crispy, golden delight with just the right amount of garlic and a sprinkle of Parmesan. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, while the herbs and cheese add a savory depth that’s hard to resist. What makes this dish special is the way it balances health and indulgence—perfect for holiday feasting!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until they are well-coated.
- Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for about 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are crispy and browned.
- During the last 5 minutes of roasting, sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the sprouts and return to the oven until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy the crunchy, cheesy goodness!
Caprese Salad Skewers
Bright, fresh, and oh-so-simple, Caprese Salad Skewers are a vibrant addition to your holiday table. The combination of juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil creates a symphony of flavors with every bite. These skewers not only look beautiful but also capture the essence of Italy in a fun and easy-to-eat way!
Ingredients:
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers or toothpicks
Instructions:
- On each skewer or toothpick, thread a cherry tomato, followed by a basil leaf, and then a mozzarella ball. Repeat until the skewer is filled or you run out of ingredients!
- Once assembled, place the skewers on a serving platter.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve. These colorful bites are sure to be a hit!
Classic Italian Garlic Bread

The Best Garlic Bread You'll Ever Eat from Ambitious Kitchen
Rating: 5. Ingredients: French loaf, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, garlic, sea salt Total Time: 20 min.

Garlic Bread from Vincenzo's Plate
Ingredients: Ciabatta bread, olive oil, pecorino romano Total Time: 15 min.

Great Garlic Bread from Allrecipes
Rating: 4.6. Ingredients: Mozzarella cheese, italian bread, garlic powder Total Time: 25 min.
No Italian meal feels complete without a side of garlic bread! This classic dish features a crispy exterior and a soft, buttery interior, all infused with the rich flavors of garlic and herbs. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and pairs perfectly with almost any holiday dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of Italian bread or French baguette
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
- Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise and spread the garlic butter mixture generously over each half.
- Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.
- For an extra touch, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes for that perfect golden finish. Slice and serve warm to enjoy the rich, buttery flavors!