After nearly a decade of being a food editor and testing recipes, tweaking ingredients, and tasting my way through countless cookbooks, I’ve developed some strong opinions about what actually works in the kitchen. And here’s one I’ll shout from the rooftops: Giada DeLaurentiis knows what she’s doing. Sure, her sunny California vibe and perfectly tousled hair might make you think it’s all for show, but the woman delivers recipes that actually make it into my regular dinner meal rotation. And that’s no small feat for a household where I’m constantly cycling through new dishes and recipes for work and fun.
While I’ve tried more than my fair share of Giada DeLaurentiis recipes over the years, there are four that have earned permanent spots in my recipe box: her bright, impossibly simple lemon spaghetti that saves summer weeknight dinners, those genius lasagna rolls that make entertaining feel effortless, a summer pasta salad that disappears at every potluck, and an easy dessert that guests always beg me to share the secret recipe. Well, I’m not keeping secrets anymore. These are the Giada DeLaurentiis I routinely make and recommend to anyone who will listen.
Italian Pasta Salad
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I’ve made several of Giada’s pasta salads, but this is the one I always come back to. It has become my go-to summer potluck dish, and everyone raves about it. The dressing is the star of the recipe, and it couldn’t be easier to make.
Get the full recipe from Giadzy.
Lasagna Rollups
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I prefer Giada’s lasagna rollups over traditional lasagna because (well, aside from the delicious flavors), it is so easy to store leftovers! These individual rollups are so quick and easy to store in the freezer, and you can just heat up a couple of rolls whenever you feel like a homemade meal without any of the work.
Get the full recipe from Food Network.
Lemon Spaghetti
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You know when you’re in the mood for a light and summery pasta but don’t want anything too heavy, like lasagna? Well, this lemon spaghetti is perfect for nights like that. It’s bursting with flavor and so, so easy to make.
Get the full recipe from Giadzy
Cannoli Pie
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OK, this one is a bit more labor-intensive than the other recipes, but I need you to trust me when I tell you it is worth it. If you want a showstopping dessert that will impress everyone at the table, this is the recipe for you. My favorite part is the orange zest that gives this heavier dessert such a nice light and bright flavor.
Get the full recipe from Giadzy.