Nduja and Pecorino Pasta: A Spicy and Creamy Delight
Category: Pasta Dishes
Servings: 4
Nduja and Pecorino pasta is a delicious and rich Italian dish that combines the creamy, salty taste of Pecorino Romano with the spicy, flavorful kick of Nduja. This dish is perfect for anyone who enjoys bold flavors and a little heat in their pasta. It’s quick to prepare and makes for a hearty, comforting meal that is bound to impress.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mezze Maniche Rigate | 320g |
| Nduja | 80g |
| Pecorino Romano (grated) | 100g |
| Red Onions (sliced) | 1 |
| Fresh Basil | To taste |
| Fine Salt | To taste |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | To taste |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Onions:
- Start by peeling and thinly slicing the red onion. The thin slices will caramelize beautifully, adding a sweet contrast to the spicy Nduja.
-
Boil the Pasta:
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the mezze maniche rigate and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 9-11 minutes, until al dente.
-
Cook the Onions and Nduja:
- While the pasta cooks, heat a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions to the skillet and sauté until they become soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the onions are tender, add the Nduja to the pan. Stir to combine, allowing the Nduja to melt and infuse its spicy flavor into the onions. Let the mixture cook for another 3-4 minutes, until it becomes a creamy consistency.
-
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- When the pasta is ready, reserve a small cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Add the pasta directly into the skillet with the Nduja and onion sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce, adding a little reserved pasta water if necessary to help coat the noodles and create a silky texture.
-
Finish the Dish:
- Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Pecorino Romano. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and creates a creamy sauce that coats the pasta.
-
Serve and Garnish:
- Plate the pasta, garnishing with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a touch of richness.
-
Enjoy:
- Serve your Nduja and Pecorino pasta immediately, and enjoy the harmonious blend of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors.
Tips and Variations:
- Adjust the Spice: If you prefer a milder dish, use less Nduja or substitute with a different type of sausage for a less spicy option.
- Cheese Variations: If Pecorino Romano is too strong for your taste, you can substitute with Parmesan or Grana Padano for a more delicate flavor.
- Add Greens: Fresh spinach or arugula can be added to the pan along with the onions for a burst of color and additional nutrition.
This Nduja and Pecorino pasta recipe is a flavorful, indulgent dish that brings a touch of Southern Italy into your kitchen. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this pasta is sure to satisfy all your cravings for a spicy, cheesy, and comforting meal. Buon appetito!
