Rustic Pasta Delight: A Delicious Mediterranean Recipe to Savor

Introduction

A pasta rustica is a wonderful dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. This rustic and hearty pasta dish is perfect for family gatherings, comforting weeknight meals, or for entertaining. The key to this recipe is the combination of simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. Let’s dive into the ingredients and directions to prepare this delightful pasta rustica.

Ingredients

To prepare this pasta rustica, you will need the following ingredients:

– 1 pound of pasta (penne or rigatoni work well)
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 pound of Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, shredded

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until they are soft and translucent.

3. Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through.

4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

5. Add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and chopped basil to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.

7. Season the pasta rustica with salt and pepper to taste.

8. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta and sauce mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.

9. Bake the pasta rustica in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

10. Once done, remove the pasta rustica from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

FAQ

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

A: While penne or rigatoni are often used for pasta rustica, you can absolutely experiment with other types of pasta such as fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the pasta rustica ahead of time and refrigerate it. Simply reheat it in the oven before serving.

Q: What can I serve with pasta rustica?

A: This hearty pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and a crusty loaf of bread. It’s also delightful on its own as a main course.

Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

A: Absolutely! You can omit the Italian sausage and use mushrooms, eggplant, or zucchini to create a delicious vegetarian version of pasta rustica.

This delightful pasta rustica is a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a comforting and flavorful dish. Whether for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds with its Mediterranean charm.