Giada De Laurentiis’ Luca Pasta Recipe

Introduction

Pasta is a beloved and versatile dish that can be enjoyed in countless ways. If you’re looking for a flavorful and satisfying pasta recipe, Luca Pasta is a fantastic choice. This recipe combines simple ingredients with a few special touches to create a delicious meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this Luca Pasta recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

To make Luca Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
• 1 pound of Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Directions

Follow these simple steps to make Luca Pasta:

1. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 1 minute, until the garlic is fragrant.

3. Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the sausage is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, and dried basil. Stir well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

6. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.

7. Serve the Luca Pasta in individual bowls, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.

FAQ

1. Can I substitute the Italian sausage with another protein?

   Yes, you can substitute the Italian sausage with ground beef, chicken, or turkey. The choice of protein will alter the flavor profile slightly, but the dish will still be delicious.

2. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

   Absolutely! You can omit the sausage entirely and add in vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist on Luca Pasta.

3. How can I make this recipe spicier?

   If you prefer a spicier version of Luca Pasta, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add in some chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.

4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

   Yes, you can make Luca Pasta ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Store the pasta and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator and assemble when desired.

5. What can I serve with Luca Pasta?

   Luca Pasta pairs well with a simple green salad and some garlic bread. You can also enjoy it on its own as a complete and satisfying meal.

Now that you have the recipe and some commonly asked questions answered, it’s time to put on your apron and start cooking! Prepare a delicious batch of Luca Pasta and enjoy the mouthwatering flavors that it brings to your table.