Ah, Sausage Nduja Pasta! Just saying it makes me a little giddy. This dish holds a special place in my heart because it combines the comforting goodness of pasta with the spicy, smoky flavors of nduja, a spreadable salami from Calabria. You see, a couple of years ago, I took a trip to Italy, and I stumbled upon this incredible little trattoria that served a version of this dish that knocked my socks off. Ever since that first bite, I’ve been on a mission to replicate it in my own kitchen, and I must say, I’ve come pretty darn close!
What I love about Sausage Nduja Pasta is how effortlessly it marries bold flavors with simple ingredients. It feels fancy enough for a romantic dinner but is easy enough to whip up on a weeknight. Plus, it’s a great way to impress guests when they pop over unexpectedly. Just a few ingredients and you’ve got yourself a bowl of happiness. So, let’s dive into making this delightful dish together!
What’s in Sausage Nduja Pasta?
Pasta: I usually go for rigatoni or penne since their shapes hold onto the sauce beautifully. You could also use spaghetti for a classic Italian touch, but I just can’t resist those ridged shapes!
Nduja: This is the star of our show! Nduja is a spicy, spreadable pork salami that brings heat and depth to the dish. You can find it in specialty stores or online; just make sure to grab a good-quality one for that authentic flavor!
Italian Sausage: I love mixing in Italian sausage to complement the nduja. Both spicy and sweet versions work well, so choose based on how much heat you can handle.
Garlic: Is there anything garlic can’t make better? It adds that lovely aromatic goodness that fills your kitchen.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of good extra virgin olive oil takes everything up a notch. It adds richness and ensures that the pasta is coated perfectly.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan on top is mandatory! It adds a creamy, salty finish that perfectly balances the dish.
Fresh Basil: To garnish, because who doesn’t love a pop of color and freshness? Plus, it pairs beautifully with the flavors in the pasta.
Is Sausage Nduja Pasta Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about health considerations. While this dish is indulgent and packed with flavor, it also includes some nutritional powerhouses.
Pasta: If you opt for whole wheat or legume-based pasta, you’ll get more fiber and protein. Just remember, portion control is key because pasta can be calorie-dense.
Nduja: This spicy delight is rich in protein, but it’s also higher in fat and sodium, so moderation is essential. A flavorful little goes a long way!
Italian Sausage: Like nduja, it’s got protein, but also some fat (especially if you’re using pork). Look for leaner options if you want to lighten the load a bit.
Fresh Basil: Adds a plethora of vitamins—including A, C, and K—as well as antioxidants. So feel free to pile it on!
Overall, this dish can definitely be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Just take into account the portion size and the richness of the ingredients.
Ingredients
– 12 oz rigatoni or penne pasta (serves about 4)
– 3 oz nduja (adjust for spice)
– 1 lb Italian sausage (spicy or sweet, casings removed)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
– ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
How to Make Sausage Nduja Pasta?
1. **Cook the Pasta:** Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once bubbling, add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve about a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
2. **Sauté the Sausage:** Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
3. **Add Garlic & Nduja:** Toss in the minced garlic, stirring for about a minute until fragrant. Then, add the nduja to the skillet. Use a spatula to mix it in with the sausage, allowing it to melt and blend in—this is where the magic happens!
4. **Combine Pasta & Sauce:** Once the pasta is cooked and drained, add it to the skillet with the sausage and nduja mixture. Toss to coat the pasta, adding a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen things up if needed.
5. **Finish with Cheese:** Sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, giving everything a good toss.
6. **Serve:** Divide onto plates, garnishing with extra cheese and fresh basil leaves. You can even drizzle a little more olive oil for that oomph!
Serving Suggestions and Variations
If you want to get fun with it, consider adding some veggies! Spinach or kale stirred in just before serving adds a nice color and nutrition boost. You could also experiment with different types of cheese for a flavor twist—think goat cheese or burrata instead of parmesan for a creamier texture.
Serving this pasta with a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread can elevate the whole experience. And don’t forget that glass of Italian red wine to pair—it really completes the meal.
I’m so excited for you to give this recipe a whirl. It’s a wonderfully simple yet delectable dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home! I’d love to hear how yours turns out, so don’t shy away from sharing your experience!
