Sometimes the best dinner reservation is the one you don’t make. A beautifully set table, something delicious to share and the luxury of lingering over a meal without watching the clock. Whether you’re hosting friends or planning a date night, there’s something especially satisfying about recreating the pleasures of dining out in your own home.
And you don’t need to spend all afternoon in the kitchen to make it happen. With quality ingredients, a little inspiration and a few clever shortcuts, even familiar favourites can become something worth celebrating. With Rao’s® Creamy Marinara in the pantry, a restaurant-inspired dinner is always within reach.
Rao’s® Creamy Marinara Sauce brings together Italian whole peeled tomatoes, cream, butter and mascarpone with Parmigiano Reggiano and Pecorino Romano cheeses to create a velvety sauce with plenty of depth and flavour. Garlic, onions and basil add savoury notes, balancing the richness of the cheeses with the bright flavour of tomatoes.
From the comforting classics of a neighbourhood trattoria to the elegant dishes of a chic Italian bistro, here are two ways to bring the Italian dining experience home.
The Neighbourhood Italian Trattoria
Think red-and-white checked tablecloths, candlelight and the comforting aromas of a traditional Italian restaurant. It’s the kind of place where the portions are generous, the atmosphere is lively and nobody’s in a hurry to leave.
Recreate that feeling at home with a golden, breaded cutlet topped with Rao’s® Creamy Marinara and a generous layer of melted cheese. The crisp coating, tomato sauce and bubbling cheese deliver all the satisfaction of an Italian classic. Serve with plenty of crusty bread for enjoying every last bit of sauce.
The Chic Italian Bistro
Trade checked tablecloths for crisp linens and elegant glassware. The mood is sophisticated but relaxed, and the menu calls for something a little more indulgent.
Lobster has a way of making any dinner feel like an occasion. Toss spaghettini with Rao’s® Creamy Marinara, top with tender lobster meat and finish with a scattering of fresh herbs for an elegant dish that’s surprisingly simple to prepare.
The creamy tomato sauce complements the sweetness of the lobster without overpowering it. Serve with a crisp green salad.
The Secret to Staying In
From a comforting Italian classic to an elegant lobster pasta, Rao’s® Creamy Marinara makes it easy to bring a little restaurant magic to your own table. All that’s left to do is invite your favourite people.
