Casarecce Pasta with Pancetta and Peas
Introduction
Casarecce pasta is a distinctive twisted pasta shape that originated in Sicily. Its unique shape and texture make it perfect for holding onto sauces and condiments. This article will guide you through a delicious recipe for casarecce pasta, giving you step-by-step instructions to create a delightful and flavorful dish.
Ingredients
To make casarecce pasta, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of casarecce pasta
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (14 ounces) of diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup of tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Directions
Follow these simple steps to cook up a delicious batch of casarecce pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the casarecce pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little water to thin it out.
Add the cooked casarecce pasta to the sauce and toss until well coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb some of the flavors from the sauce.
Remove the skillet from heat. Serve the casarecce pasta hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
Enjoy your homemade casarecce pasta!
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta instead of casarecce?
A: Yes, you can use a different type of pasta if you cannot find casarecce. However, keep in mind that the unique shape and texture of casarecce are what make this dish special. Choose a pasta shape that can hold onto sauces well, such as fusilli or penne.
Q: Can I add meat to this recipe?
A: Absolutely! If you prefer a meaty sauce, you can add cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or sliced chicken to the sauce. Brown the meat separately before adding it to the sauce, and cook until it is fully cooked through.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the meat. The sauce itself is rich and flavorful, so you won’t even miss the meat. Additionally, you can add some sautéed mushrooms or diced zucchini for added texture and flavor.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers of this casarecce pasta recipe. Once the pasta has cooled down, transfer it to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Q: Can I modify the spice level?
A: Absolutely! If you prefer a spicier sauce, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce while it simmers. Adjust the spice level according to your personal preference.
Now you have all the information you need to create a delicious casarecce pasta dish. Enjoy experimenting with different sauces and ingredients to make it your own!
