Pasta with Friggitelli and Sausage: A Flavorful Italian Delight
Category: Main Course
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
If you’re looking to create a simple, yet delicious Italian meal that bursts with flavor, this Pasta with Friggitelli and Sausage is the perfect choice. This dish combines tender spaghetti with the sweet, mild heat of friggitelli peppers, the richness of sausage, and the brightness of fresh cherry tomatoes. Topped with aromatic basil and a generous sprinkle of Parmigiano Reggiano, it’s an unforgettable Italian experience.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti | 400g |
| Friggitelli peppers | 350g |
| Sausage (preferably Italian) | 200g |
| Cherry tomatoes | 200g |
| Parmigiano Reggiano DOP | 100g |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Fresh basil | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Extra virgin olive oil | As needed |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Friggitelli Peppers:
Start by rinsing the friggitelli peppers under cold running water. Remove the stems and slice off the tops. Gently remove the seeds from inside each pepper. This will ensure the peppers retain their delightful texture and flavor while cooking. -
Cook the Sausage:
For the sausage, remove the casings and crumble or chop it into small pieces. Heat a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook it, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. This step will infuse the sausage with a delicious savory flavor. -
Add the Friggitelli Peppers:
Once the sausage is cooked, add the prepared friggitelli peppers to the pan. Stir them well to combine with the sausage and let them cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. -
Prepare the Cherry Tomatoes:
While the sausage and peppers are cooking, wash the cherry tomatoes and slice them into quarters. Add these tomatoes to the pan along with the sausage and peppers. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, and let everything cook on low heat for about 10-15 minutes. The tomatoes will release their juices, creating a delicious sauce to coat the pasta. -
Boil the Pasta:
In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the spaghetti. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically around 9-10 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. -
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and add it directly to the pan with the sausage, peppers, and tomatoes. Toss everything together gently, making sure the pasta is evenly coated with the flavorful sauce. -
Grate the Parmigiano:
While the pasta is absorbing all the delicious flavors, grate the Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. This will add a wonderful creamy richness to the dish. -
Serve and Garnish:
Plate the pasta and top with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano. Garnish with fresh basil leaves to add an aromatic touch and extra flavor. Optionally, drizzle a little more extra virgin olive oil over the top for added richness.
Tips for the Perfect Pasta with Friggitelli and Sausage
- Sausage Variety: You can experiment with different types of sausages, such as spicy Italian sausage or chicken sausage, depending on your preference.
- Friggitelli Peppers: If you can’t find friggitelli peppers, feel free to substitute with mild green bell peppers, though the flavor will differ slightly.
- Pasta Alternatives: While spaghetti is a classic choice for this recipe, you can use other pasta types such as penne or rigatoni for a different experience.
- Cheese Options: If Parmigiano Reggiano is unavailable, you can substitute it with Pecorino Romano for a sharper, more tangy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~450 kcal |
| Protein | ~25g |
| Carbohydrates | ~60g |
| Fiber | ~5g |
| Fat | ~20g |
| Saturated Fat | ~6g |
| Cholesterol | ~30mg |
| Sodium | ~500mg |
Conclusion
Pasta with Friggitelli and Sausage is a perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal for family and friends. The combination of fresh, simple ingredients creates a comforting, savory dish that will undoubtedly become a family favorite. With its vibrant colors and balanced flavors, this pasta dish is a great way to bring a little taste of Italy to your kitchen. Enjoy!
