If you’re craving a taste of Italy in your own kitchen, look no further than this flavorful Nduja Pasta recipe. Originating from Calabria, the southern region of Italy, Nduja is a spicy spreadable salami that adds a unique kick to any dish. The combination of bold flavors and simple ingredients makes this dish a go-to for cozy weeknight dinners or special occasions. Let’s dive into the delicious world of Nduja Pasta – an authentic Calabrese delight!
**Nduja Pasta Recipe – Authentic Calabrese Pasta**
**Ingredients:**
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (such as spaghetti or penne)
– 1/4 cup Nduja (spicy spreadable salami)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
2. **Prepare the Nduja Sauce:** In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. **Add the Nduja and Tomatoes:** Add in the Nduja to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon to help it melt into the oil. Cook for a few minutes until the Nduja starts to render its fat and becomes aromatic. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and red pepper flakes, stirring to combine.
4. **Simmer the Sauce:** Lower the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. **Combine the Pasta and Sauce:** Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the Nduja sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce looks too dry, add some of the reserved pasta water gradually to loosen it up.
6. **Serve and Garnish:** Once the pasta is well coated in the sauce, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Nduja Pasta hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for a burst of freshness.
7. **Enjoy Your Authentic Calabrese Pasta:** Your Nduja Pasta is ready to be served and enjoyed! The rich and spicy flavors of the Nduja combined with the simplicity of the pasta create a dish that is sure to impress your taste buds and transport you to the sun-kissed hills of Southern Italy.
Immerse yourself in the culinary traditions of Calabria with this Nduja Pasta recipe. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner idea or want to impress your guests with a taste of authentic Italian cuisine, this dish is a winner. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to savor a bowl of comfort and spice with every bite. Buon Appetito!
