Sausage & Orecchiette Pasta Recipe
Introduction
When it comes to Italian cuisine, few dishes capture the essence of traditional flavors quite like Sausage & Orecchiette Pasta. This classic recipe combines the heartiness of Italian sausage with the unique texture of orecchiette, a pasta shape that perfectly holds sauces and other ingredients. Whether you are cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sausage
- 1 pound of orecchiette pasta
- 1 pound of Italian sausage (preferably a mix of sweet and spicy)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1/2 cup of dry white wine (optional, for deglazing)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bunch of broccoli rabe (rapini), chopped
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional, for added spice)
Sauce and Seasoning
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1/2 cup of grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
1. Preparing the Ingredients
Begin by preparing all the ingredients. Remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it into bite-sized pieces. Wash and chop the broccoli rabe, halve the cherry tomatoes, and finely chop the onion and garlic. This mise en place will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
2. Cooking the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orecchiette pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Sautéing the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the crumbled sausage and cook until it is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If you are using a mix of sweet and spicy sausage, this will add a complex flavor profile to the dish. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
4. Sautéing the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3 minutes. Add the red pepper flakes at this stage if you desire a bit of heat in your dish. Next, add the broccoli rabe and cook until it is wilted and tender, approximately 5 minutes. The slight bitterness of broccoli rabe pairs beautifully with the savory sausage.
5. Deglazing and Building the Sauce
If using, pour the white wine into the skillet to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow the wine to reduce by half. Then, add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet along with the halved cherry tomatoes. Let this mixture cook together for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
6. Combining Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked orecchiette to the skillet, along with the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta is well-coated with the sauce. The pasta water will help to thicken the sauce and bind it to the orecchiette. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Finishing Touches
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Pecorino Romano cheese. This cheese adds a sharp, salty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
8. Serving
Serve the Sausage & Orecchiette Pasta hot, with extra Pecorino Romano on the side for those who like a bit more cheese. A glass of dry white wine pairs beautifully with this dish, highlighting the flavors of the sausage and broccoli rabe.
Tips for Success
Choosing the Sausage
Opt for high-quality Italian sausage from your local butcher or specialty store. The mix of sweet and spicy varieties creates a balanced flavor profile that elevates this dish.
Cooking the Pasta
Cooking the pasta al dente is crucial. Orecchiette, in particular, should have a slight bite to it, which provides a wonderful texture contrast to the tender sausage and vegetables.
Balancing Flavors
Taste as you go. The key to a harmonious dish is balancing the flavors of the sausage, broccoli rabe, and cheese. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Using Fresh Ingredients
Whenever possible, use fresh, seasonal ingredients. Fresh broccoli rabe and ripe cherry tomatoes will enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish.
Conclusion
This Sausage & Orecchiette Pasta recipe is a celebration of Italian culinary tradition, combining robust flavors and simple ingredients to create a meal that is both satisfying and sophisticated. Whether you are new to cooking or an experienced chef, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
