Gnocchetti Sardi with Sausage and Asparagus
Category: Main Courses
Servings: 4
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
A delicious and hearty Italian dish, Gnocchetti Sardi with Sausage and Asparagus combines the rustic flavor of tender gnocchetti pasta, savory sausage, and the freshness of asparagus, all enveloped in a creamy sauce. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is both comforting and sophisticated, making it a crowd-pleaser for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Gnocchetti Sardi | 320g |
| Sausage (preferably mild) | 250g |
| Asparagus | 150g |
| Heavy cream (fresh liquid) | 120g |
| Shallot | 1 |
| Fresh mint | To taste |
| Extra virgin olive oil | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Instructions
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Prep the Ingredients: Start by preparing the shallotβpeel and slice it thinly. Then, cut the sausage into small chunks. Wash the asparagus thoroughly, trimming off the tough, woody ends. Slice the asparagus stems into small rounds.
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Cook the Sausage and Asparagus: In a large pan, heat a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced shallot and cook until it softens and becomes translucent. Next, add the sausage pieces and cook until they begin to brown and release their flavorful oils. Once the sausage is browned, add the asparagus slices. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the asparagus becomes tender.
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Boil the Pasta: While the sausage and asparagus are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the gnocchetti and cook according to the package instructions, typically around 8β10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
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Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Once the gnocchetti is cooked, reserve a small cup of pasta cooking water and drain the rest. Add the pasta directly to the pan with the sausage and asparagus. Pour in a bit of the reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce, continuing to cook until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
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Add the Cream and Seasonings: Lower the heat and pour in the fresh cream. Stir to combine and let the sauce cook for a few more minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
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Final Touches: Remove from the heat and sprinkle some fresh mint on top for a refreshing, aromatic finish. Serve the Gnocchetti Sardi immediately, ensuring that each serving is generously coated in the creamy sausage and asparagus sauce.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 510 kcal |
| Protein | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 53g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
Tips for Success
- Saute the Sausage Well: For the best flavor, ensure the sausage is browned well in the pan before adding the asparagus.
- Use Fresh Asparagus: Fresh asparagus gives the dish a vibrant texture and flavor, but you can also use frozen if necessary.
- Adjust Cream: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can reduce the amount of cream or substitute it with a bit of milk.
This Gnocchetti Sardi with Sausage and Asparagus is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish will surely impress with its comforting flavors and elegant presentation. Enjoy!
