Oh my goodness, folks! Let me tell you about one of my recent culinary adventures that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also warm your heart — Nduja Pasta! If you’re unfamiliar with nduja, imagine a spicy Italian spreadable salami that packs a delicious punch of flavor. Now, mix that with pasta, and you’ve got yourself a dish that feels like a big, cozy hug from your dinner plate.
What I love most about this recipe is the balance of creaminess and heat that the nduja brings to the table. It reminds me of a cozy evening at home when I’m curled up on the couch with a glass of wine and a bowl of this fantastic pasta. Plus, it’s one of those comforting meals that comes together pretty quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or a special treat on the weekend.
What’s in Sausage Nduja Pasta?
Let’s break down the ingredients that make this dish so irresistible. Each of them plays a unique role, so you’ll definitely want to pay attention to the details!
Nduja: The star of the show! This spicy, spreadable salami adds an incredible depth of flavor. Look for a good-quality nduja; I love the kind from Calabria for its boldness.
Pasta: I usually go for rigatoni or penne in this dish. Their shapes are perfect for capturing the sauce, and it makes every bite satisfying.
Olive Oil: A splash of good olive oil is essential for sautéing the garlic and coating the pasta. I recommend extra virgin for the best flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must! It gives a fragrant aroma and depth to the dish. Plus, who can resist the smell of garlic cooking? It just screams comfort food!
Heavy Cream: This provides a creamy texture that balances the heat from the nduja. Feel free to swap it out for a lighter option if you want, but come on, treat yourself a little!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that really takes the dish over the top. Don’t skimp on this— it’s worth it!
Fresh Basil: Adding fresh basil at the end gives a nice pop of color and freshness to the dish. If you can, use it fresh from the garden for the best taste!
Is Sausage Nduja Pasta Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about the health aspects of this dish. Obviously, we have some ingredients that aren’t exactly “health food”, but everything in moderation, right?
Nduja: While it’s rich in flavor, remember it’s also high in fat and sodium. Enjoy it as a treat, but don’t go overboard!
Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess but also calories. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can use half-and-half or even a plant-based cream for a lighter version.
On the bright side, with the addition of fiber-rich pasta and a good dose of basil, you’re still getting some nutrients! Just balance it out with a side salad or some steamed veggies, and you’re golden!
Ingredients
– 12 ounces pasta (rigatoni or penne)
– 100 grams nduja
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, to garnish (about a handful)
This recipe will serve about 4 people, perfect for a cozy dinner or to impress your guests!
How to Make Sausage Nduja Pasta?
1. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta and cook it according to the package directions until al dente. Remember to reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining!
2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Don’t let it burn!
3. Now for the fun part! Add the nduja to the skillet and let it melt down, stirring occasionally to combine with the garlic. The smell will make you swoon!
4. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. At this point, you can adjust the consistency with some reserved pasta water if you like it a bit saucier.
5. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss it in the sauce until well coated. Stir in the parmesan cheese until melted and mixed in.
6. Plate generously and finish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle more of parmesan cheese if you’re feeling indulgent!
Serving Suggestions for Nduja Pasta Perfection
This pasta is so delightful on its own, but why not jazz it up a bit? You could toss in some sautéed spinach or roasted cherry tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor. Crusty garlic bread on the side is a no-brainer, and a simple green salad can add a refreshing note. And don’t forget the wine! A nice Chianti pairs beautifully with this dish.
I can’t wait for you to try this Sausage Nduja Pasta! It’s one of those recipes that never fails to impress, and I promise, once you’ve made it, you’ll find yourself craving it over and over again. So, roll up those sleeves, grab your ingredients, and let me know how it turns out. Happy cooking!
