Creamy Ziti Lardiati with Lardo, Pecorino, and Fresh Basil

Ziti Lardiati – A Rich and Flavorful Italian Pasta Dish
Category: First Course
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pasta Water: Begin by placing a large pot of water on the stove to boil for your pasta. Add a pinch of salt once the water reaches a rolling boil. This will help enhance the flavor of the pasta as it cooks.

2. Chop the Onion: Peel and trim the yellow onions. Cut vertical slits, followed by horizontal cuts, and then finely chop them into small pieces. Set the chopped onion aside for later use.

3. Prepare the Lardo: Slice the Lardo di Colonnata into thin strips. Then, chop the slices into a fine dice to create a small, flavorful lard mixture that will infuse your sauce with a rich depth.

4. Cook the Onion: Heat a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion to the pan, and sauté gently for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the onions from burning. The goal is to soften the onions without browning them.

5. Add Tomatoes and Basil: After the onions have softened, increase the heat slightly and add the canned peeled tomatoes, crushing them gently with a spoon as you stir. Tear the fresh basil leaves and add them to the sauce for a fragrant, herbal note. Cover the pan with a lid and let the mixture simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together, creating a delicious base for your dish.

6. Prepare the Ziti Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, break the ziti pasta into pieces of your preferred size. Traditionally, ziti are left whole, but breaking them into smaller pieces can add a rustic touch to the dish.

7. Cook the Ziti: Once the pasta water is boiling, add the broken ziti and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 10 minutes or until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta, reserving a small amount of pasta water to help incorporate the sauce if necessary.

8. Combine Pasta and Sauce: When both the sauce and the pasta are ready, add the drained ziti directly into the sauce. Stir gently to ensure the pasta is well-coated with the tomato and onion mixture. If the sauce appears too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.

9. Finish and Serve: Turn off the heat and give everything one last stir to blend the flavors. Plate your ziti lardiati on serving dishes, generously grating Pecorino Romano cheese on top to enhance the richness of the sauce. Garnish with a few fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor.

10. Enjoy: Serve immediately while the dish is warm, allowing the flavors to shine through. This hearty and satisfying dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, showcasing the simplicity and depth of traditional Italian cooking.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

This Ziti Lardiati recipe brings a comforting and luxurious touch to your meal table. The combination of sweet tomatoes, savory lardo, and the richness of Pecorino Romano cheese creates a wonderfully balanced dish that is both filling and flavorful. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a family meal, this Italian classic will always impress. Enjoy!