Italian cooking gift ideas

Italian Cooking Gift Ideas: 28 Best Gifts for Food Lovers

Searching for the perfect Italian cooking gift? You’ve landed in the right place! Italian cuisine, celebrated for its rich flavors, fresh ingredients, and heartwarming traditions, offers delightful gift options. Let’s explore the 28 best gifts for food lovers.

The art of Italian cooking has captivated people’s taste buds worldwide, making it the perfect inspiration for thoughtful and unique gifts for people who like Italian cooking.

This post contains affiliate links. When you buy something through one of the links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you.

Top Kitchen Gadget Gift
Bread Maker Machine

Bread Maker Machine

This Bread Maker Machine is a top pick for its user-friendly design, versatile menu options, and ability to bake large loaves for sharing.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Top Cookbook Gift
Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking: 30th Anniversary Edition: A Cookbook

Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking

This top pick offers a comprehensive guide to Italian cuisine, brimming with nearly 500 recipes that cater to chefs of all levels. A must-have for foodies.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Top INgredient Gift
Due Vittorie Oro Gold, Barrel Aged Balsamic Vinegar of Modena IGP With Cork Pourer

Due Vittorie Oro Gold Balsamic Vinegar

This top pick offers a rich and authentic balsamic experience, featuring a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity with a black cherry aftertaste.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Top Experience Gift
Italian cooking gift ideas: The Taste of Italy Gift Basket by Wine Country Gift Baskets

Gourmet Italian Gift Basket

This top pick offers a delightful culinary journey through Italy. This gift basket is packed with a diverse selection of traditional gourmet delicacies, from cookies to pasta and chocolate.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Let’s explore diverse gift ideas that cater to various interests and needs, helping you choose the perfect item for that special someone who adores Italian cooking.

Table of Content

To make your search for Italian gifts as easy as possible, we’ve organized our list of gift ideas into four subcategories based on their primary use or theme:

  1. Cooking Tools and Appliances
  2. Cookbooks and Recipes
  3. Ingredients and Grow-Your-Own Kits
  4. Experiences and Serveware

This categorization will help you navigate the list more easily and find gifts that align with the recipient’s interests, ensuring your chosen present is meaningful and appreciated.

Looking for more than just cooking gifts? Explore the ultimate guide for the best, diverse gift ideas for Italy lovers.

Cooking Tools and Appliances

Dive into Italian cooking with these essential tools and appliances that make whipping up authentic Italian dishes a breeze.

From pasta makers to gelato machines, these gifts are perfect for those who love the hands-on experience of crafting delicious Italian meals from scratch. Equip your loved ones with the tools they need to bring the magic of Italian cuisine into their kitchen!

1. Bread Maker Machine

Bread Maker Machine

Bring the aroma of freshly baked bread into your home with the Cuisinart Bread Maker Machine. This compact, easy-to-use device offers 12 preprogrammed menu options and 3 crust shades for the ultimate customization.

Bake up to a 2-pound loaf, perfect for sharing with family and friends. The viewing window and interior light make it simple to monitor the baking process. Give the gift of warm, homemade bread with just a few clicks.


2. Marcato Atlas 150 Pasta Machine

Pasta Machine

Transform your Italian kitchen into a pasta paradise with the world-famous Marcato Atlas 150 pasta maker machine. Craft delicious fresh Italian pasta, such as traditional lasagna, fettuccine, and tagliatelle with ease, thanks to this authentic Italian-made device.

Enjoy 10 thickness settings for the perfect consistency and taste, and unleash your creativity with 12 cutting accessory options (sold separately). Dubbed the “Ferrari of pasta machines” by Cook’s Illustrated, this is a must-have for any Italian cuisine lover.


3. Bialetti Moka Espresso Maker

The Moka Express: an Italian icon

Experience the authentic Italian coffee tradition with the original Moka Express stovetop espresso maker. Crafted in Italy since 1933, this iconic coffee pot delivers the authentic taste of Italy right to your kitchen.

Its versatile design is suitable for gas, electric, and induction stovetops (with the Bialetti induction adapter plate). Savor the rich aroma and full-bodied flavor of Italian espresso, and share a piece of history with your loved ones.

Recommended Reading: 14 Best Italian Coffee Brands: Taste Italy’s Finest


4. Pasta Pot with Strainer Lid

Italian cooking gift ideas: pasta pot with strainer lid

Make pasta night a breeze with the innovative Pasta Pot with Strainer Lid. Featuring twist & lock handles, this pot removes the necessity for an additional strainer, conserving your energy and streamlining the process.

Its versatile design is perfect for all types of stovetop cooking, while the nonstick ceramic surface ensures easy cleanup. The pot even includes two straining sizes for added convenience. Upgrade your kitchen essentials and enjoy hassle-free pasta preparation.


5. Stand Mixer

KitchenAid KSM150PSER Artisan Tilt-Head Stand Mixer with Pouring Shield, 5-Quart, Empire Red

Unleash your inner Italian chef with this versatile and stylish Stand Mixer, designed for any culinary challenge. With its durable metal construction, 59 touchpoints, and 10-speed control, you can effortlessly create perfect pasta dough, pizza crust or even whip up a light and airy tiramisu.

Choose from over 20 vibrant colors to match your personality, and explore 15+ attachments to expand your culinary prowess. Elevate your Italian cooking experience.

Suggested Reading: 100 Most Interesting Italian Food Facts You’ll Love


6. Cheese Grater

Alessi "Todo" Giant Cheese And Nutmeg Grater in Steel And Wood, Silver

Grate your favorite Italian cheeses in style with this beautifully designed, show-stopping Cheese Grater by Richard Sapper. This grater is made from steel and wood. It is functional and visually stunning – perfect for special occasions or impressing guests. Its large grating surface ensures efficiency, while its unique design adds elegance to your kitchen. Indulge in the luxury of this one-of-a-kind cheese grater.


7. Gelato Maker

Italian gifts: gelato maker

Bring the authentic taste of Italian gelato to your home with this premium Gelato Maker. With its 1-1/2-quart capacity and fully automatic operation, you can effortlessly create up to 3 quarts of delicious ice cream or sorbet per hour.

Made from stainless steel for easy cleaning, this machine is perfect for enjoying a scoop of homemade gelato with your loved ones. Experience the joy of creating your own flavors and indulge in the ultimate frozen treat.


8. Pizza Stone

Grill Pizza Stone

Create the perfect Italian pizza with this top-quality Pizza Stone, designed for grill and oven use. Made from toughened porous cordierite stone, it’s FDA-safe and heat-resistant up to 1112°F.

Ideal for baking Italian-style pizzas, pies, and artisan bread, this stone distributes heat evenly for the perfect finish, whether you’re dining indoors or al fresco. Elevate your homemade pizza game with this essential kitchen tool.


9. Cannoli Tubes

Cannoli Mold Kit

Create mouthwatering Italian cannoli at home with these stainless steel Cannoli Tubes. Designed for strength and resilience, our kit includes 18 large tubes and a 4.5″ round cookie cutter, making it perfect for beginners.

Experience the classic Sicilian treat quickly and safely, thanks to the tubes’ filled edges that protect your fingers. Experiment with different fillings and elevate your homemade cannoli experience.


10. Homemade Ravioli Stamp

Homemade Ravioli Stamp (Italian cooking gift ideas)

Whip up amazing homemade ravioli with our Italian-made Ravioli Stamp, designed to save you time and effort. Crafted from durable brass with a comfortable natural wood handle, this pasta cutter tool creates perfect ravioli every time.

Choose from various ravioli cutters sizes and shapes to suit your recipes and occasions. Impress your friends and family with restaurant-quality ravioli made in the comfort of your own kitchen.


11. Food Mill

Ergonomic Food Mill Stainless Steel

Elevate your Italian cuisine with this versatile Food Mill, designed for long-lasting performance with its durable stainless steel construction. Effortlessly turn the ergonomic rotary handle to process ingredients for tomato sauce, soups, and more.

The side hooks secure the mill to bowls and pots, and the three interchangeable grinding discs cater to various textures. Compact and easy to store, this food mill is a must-have tool for Italian food enthusiasts.

Suggested Reading: 43 Best Italian Kitchen Brands: Top Design & Elite Style


Cookbooks and Recipes

Inspire your favorite Italian food enthusiasts with our cookbook selection. These gifts provide guidance, inspiration, and a touch of organization for those looking to explore the vast world of Italian cuisine. Help them perfect their cooking techniques and discover new dishes to delight their taste buds!

1. The Silver Spoon

The Silver Spoon

“The Silver Spoon” is a celebrated and authoritative Italian cookbook that has captured the hearts of food enthusiasts for over 50 years. This updated and revised edition contains over 2,000 curated recipes and 400 stunning full-color photographs. Presented in a stylish and user-friendly format, this cookbook is accessible and enjoyable.

This edition is the ultimate guide for Italian home cooking with additional content on traditional Italian meal composition, regional food traditions, and table-setting tips.

Originally published in Italy in 1950 by the renowned design and architectural magazine Domus, “The Silver Spoon” remains an indispensable resource for authentic Italian recipes. Explore the world of Italian home cooking with “The Silver Spoon.”


2. Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking

Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking: 30th Anniversary Edition: A Cookbook

Considered the go-to Italian cookbook for cooks of all skill levels, Marcella Hazan’s “Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking” is a must-have for any kitchen. This comprehensive guide to Italian cooking includes nearly 500 delicious recipes, from simple pasta dishes to more complex creations.

With beautiful illustrations throughout, this cookbook is a perfect gift for students, newlyweds, or experienced chefs looking to expand their culinary repertoire. Dive into the essentials of Italian cooking with this classic cookbook.


3. Old World Italian: Recipes and Secrets from Our Travels in Italy

Old World Italian: Recipes and Secrets from Our Travels in Italy: A Cookbook

In “Old World Italian,” Mimi Thorisson takes readers on a culinary journey through the coasts and countryside of Italy. This beautifully photographed cookbook features 100 authentic recipes inspired by Italy’s rich food heritage and conversations with local food experts.

From regional dishes to time-honored cooking techniques, “Old World Italian” is a treasure trove of Italian cuisine that will transport you to a seat at the family table in Italy. Experience the flavors of Italy with “Old World Italian.”


4. Pasta Veloce: Irresistibly Fast Recipes from Under the Tuscan Sun

Frances Mayes, author of “Under the Tuscan Sun,” teams up with food editor Susan Wyler to bring you “Pasta Veloce,” a collection of 100 quick and delicious pasta recipes inspired by their time in Italy. These delectable dishes can be prepared in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner parties.

From rich, savory sauces to simple, fresh ingredients, “Pasta Veloce” is an indispensable guide for anyone who loves Italian cuisine and wants to enjoy it in a hurry. Whip up irresistible pasta dishes in no time with “Pasta Veloce.”


5. The Italian Wine Bible

The Italian Wine Bible (a great idea for an Italian cooking inspired gift)

For those passionate about Italian wine, “The Italian Wine Bible” is the ultimate guide to discovering the finest wines from across Italy’s diverse regions. Learn about the history, culture, and traditions of Italian wine and expert tips for finding authentic Italian wines outside of Italy, properly tasting them, and pairing them with delicious dishes.

With detailed overviews of Italy’s wine regions, grape varieties, and 100 easy-to-follow recipes, this book is a must-have for anyone exploring the world of Italian wine.


Grow-Your-Own Kits and Ingredients

For a truly authentic Italian cooking experience, consider these grow-your-own kits and premium ingredients. From herb garden kits to cheese-making sets, these gifts will bring a sense of pride and satisfaction to your loved ones as they use their homegrown or homemade ingredients in their culinary creations. Elevate their Italian dishes with the freshest flavors and highest quality ingredients!

1. Indoor Herb Garden Kit

Hydroponics Growing System, 12 Pods Indoor Garden System

Enhance your Italian cuisine with this Indoor Herb Garden Kit, designed for growing fresh herbs to elevate your dishes. Featuring 159 LED lights for optimal plant growth, adjustable colors, and a 4L ultra-large water tank, enjoy up to 18 days of self-sufficient growth with just one watering.

Suitable for various types of cultivation, this hydroponic system adjusts the height to accommodate different plant sizes. Grow fresh herbs for authentic Italian flavors with this Indoor Herb Garden Kit.


2. Italian Olive Oil of the Month Club Membership

Olive Oil of the Month Club

Discover Italy’s diverse olive oil flavors with the Italian Olive Oil of the Month Club Membership. Each month, members receive a unique olive oil from a different region of Italy, carefully selected for its exceptional quality and taste. The package includes a newsletter featuring details about the olive oil, the producer, and delectable recipes to share with loved ones.

This club is committed to choosing only the finest Italian olive oils, boasting the highest polyphenol content and certifications (USDA Organic, DOP, IGP, etc.). The olive oils are 100% Italian, cold-pressed, and sourced from the freshest harvest to ensure an authentic experience. The club supports boutique Italian farmers and their centenarian family businesses, preserving traditional olive oil production. Each 500 ml (17 oz) bottle makes a perfect gift for the food enthusiasts in your life.


3. Authentic Italian Parmigiano Reggiano DOP Aged 36 Months

Authentic Parmigiano Reggiano DOP 36 months (Italian cooking gifts ideas)

Discover the exquisite taste of this exclusive selection of Parmigiano Reggiano DOP, shipped directly from Italy. The aging process plays a vital role in transforming Parmigiano into the distinctive and highly sought-after cheese it is. At 36 months and beyond, the cheese becomes increasingly crumbly and develops spicier flavors as fresh fruit notes give way to more intense dried fruit nuances.

Pair it perfectly with aged balsamic vinegar for a delightful combination. This Parmigiano Reggiano cheese is additive and preservative-free, thanks to the traditional cheese-making process.


4. Due Vittorie Oro Gold Balsamic Vinegar

 Due Vittorie Oro Gold, Barrel Aged Balsamic Vinegar of Modena IGP With Cork Pourer

Experience the smooth flavor of Due Vittorie Oro Gold Balsamic Vinegar. PGI (IGP) Certified, this aged Italian balsamic vinegar is created from a reduction of Trebbiano and Lambrusco grapes from Modena, Italy, and matures in durmast oak barrels. Its full-bodied sweetness harmonizes with its acidity level, leaving an aftertaste of black cherries.


5. DYI Focaccia Art Kit Personalized Focaccia Bread

DIY Italian Focaccia Art Kit

Unleash your creativity with this DIY Focaccia Art Kit, turning homemade Italian flatbread into edible masterpieces. Decorate your focaccia with fresh toppings using the included food tweezers and create a fun experience for the whole family.

The kit includes bread flour, yeast, Italian seasoning, flaky sea salt, step-by-step instructions, and an art gallery for inspiration. Make artistic focaccia bread the entire family will love with our DIY Focaccia Art Kit.


6. Cheese Making Kit

Sandy Leaf Farm Cheese Making Kit and Supplies

Discover the joys of homemade cheese with this DIY Cheese Making Kit, complete with cheese salt, citric acid, cheesecloth, and vegetable rennet. Create five soft, fresh cheeses in a few hours – mozzarella, ricotta, burrata, mascarpone, and goat cheese.

The included user-friendly cheese-making book makes it perfect for beginners and experienced cheese makers. Create delicious, homemade Italian cheeses with this Cheese Making Kit.


Experiences and Serveware

Make lasting memories and enhance the presentation of Italian meals with these experiences and serveware gift ideas. Whether it’s an unforgettable Italian cooking class or a beautifully crafted ceramic serving platter, these gifts are perfect for those who love to share their passion for Italian cuisine with others. Delight your loved ones with gifts that make every meal an event to remember!

1. Italian Ceramic Cookies Jar Biscotti Hand Painted

Elevate your kitchen aesthetics with this exquisite Italian Biscotti Jar, intricately hand-painted with a vibrant design of three lemons, leaves, and flowers. Set against a vivid blue background with a contrasting yellow-orange border, this ceramic jar brings an energetic splash of Italian countryside charm.

Each piece is unique and comes with a certificate of authenticity, ensuring you receive an actual work of Italian art. The jar is lead-free, food-safe, and dishwasher-friendly. Store your cookies in style with this stunning, one-of-a-kind Biscotti Jar.


2. Spode Blue Italian Pasta Bowl

Italian pasta bowl

Elevate your dining experience with the stunning Spode Blue Italian Pasta Bowl, an iconic piece that combines elegance and functionality. The versatile bowl showcases Spode’s renowned Blue Italian design, which dates back to 1816, featuring a detailed 18th-century Imari Oriental border and a picturesque Italian countryside scene.

This timeless design adds charm to any occasion, whether serving pasta, displaying fruit, or using it as a decorative piece. Made from fine porcelain, the pasta bowl is dishwasher, microwave, and freezer safe, ensuring lasting durability and convenience.


3. Gourmet Italian Gift Basket

Italian cooking gift ideas: The Taste of Italy Gift Basket by Wine Country Gift Baskets

Experience the flavors of Italy with this exquisite Gourmet Italian Gift Basket, filled with an assortment of traditional Italian gourmet treats. This Italian food gift basket includes Amaretti Del Chiostro cookies, Colavita penne rigate pasta, Italian seasoning mix, Ciao Italia cranberry and sesame cookies, savory fennel seed rings, a Socado Italian milk chocolate bar, and Bella Campagna mixed olives.

This delightful collection, which I consider one of the best gourmet gift baskets, makes a unique and memorable gift for any occasion, from birthdays and anniversaries to housewarming events. Italian cooking basket gifts make a great option for corporate gifts. Treat your loved ones to the rich tastes of Italy with this Gourmet Italian Gift Basket.


4. Italian Cooking Class

Give the gift of culinary mastery with an Italian cooking class. This unique and thoughtful present will inspire and educate your loved ones, introducing them to the art of preparing authentic Italian cuisine. Cooking classes are an enjoyable, hands-on experience that teaches valuable skills and creates lasting memories.

To find a local class, search for cooking schools or culinary studios in your area that offer Italian cooking lessons. Alternatively, explore online resources such as masterclass.com for virtual classes led by renowned chefs. Give the gift of an unforgettable Italian cooking class and ignite a passion for delicious, homemade Italian food!


5. Fun Italian-Themed Apron

funny Italian apron (Italian cooking gifts)

This high-quality, Italian-themed apron is made from a 65/35 poly-cotton yarn-dyed fabric that is machine-washable, fade-proof, and durable. With two large front pockets, this apron is perfect for holding essentials like a meat thermometer or recipe cards. The adjustable neck strap ensures a comfortable fit for both men and women.

This unique apron makes an excellent gift for birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas, or New Year’s celebrations. Show your loved ones how much you care with this humorous and practical gift, perfect for anyone who loves cooking.


6. Ravioli-Shaped Spoon Rest

Italian cooking gifts: Ravioli-Shaped Spoon Rest

Upgrade your kitchen with this fun and functional ravioli-shaped spoon rest. Made from durable and safe silicone, this spoon rest is designed to keep your kitchen clean and organized. The unique ravioli shape adds a touch of whimsy to your countertop while providing a practical solution for resting spoons and spatulas.

Developed by local designers, this spoon rest makes a perfect gift for foodies or anyone who enjoys experimenting in the kitchen. This spoon rest is stylish and practical, with its dimple at the center for collecting cooking juices.


In conclusion, finding the perfect gift for someone who loves Italian cooking can be a delightful and fulfilling experience. With this comprehensive list of gift ideas, you’re now well-equipped to choose a present that captures the essence of Italian cuisine and the joy it brings to the table.

Whether it’s a practical kitchen tool, a beautiful piece of serveware, or an unforgettable culinary experience, the lucky recipient, being a family member or a friend, will surely cherish your chosen gift.

We hope this article has informed and inspired you and empowered you to make the best decision when selecting a gift for Italy lovers that celebrates the art of Italian cooking. Buona fortuna, and happy gifting!

Further Reading:

Similar Posts