Emilian cuisine, known for its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, has much to offer, especially when it comes to pasta dishes. One standout is the delightful combination of fresh pasta and Italian sausage, a dish that embodies the essence of home cooking. Let’s dive into the ingredients and methods used to create this rustic yet delicious meal that warms the heart.
The Ingredients
To create a sumptuous pasta with Italian sausage, you will need a few essential ingredients:
1. Fresh Pasta: Traditionally, eggbased pasta such as tagliatelle or pappardelle is favored. Making fresh pasta from scratch brings an unparalleled taste and texture.
2. Italian Sausage: Use highquality Italian sausage, which can be either sweet or spicy, depending on your preference. The flavor profile of the sausage will significantly influence the overall dish.
3. Aromatics: Garlic and onion will form the aromatic base, providing a depth of flavor.
4. Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes or quality canned tomatoes will enhance the sauce, contributing acidity and sweetness.
5. Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or oregano add bright notes.
6. Cheese: Grated ParmigianoReggiano is the perfect finishing touch, offering a salty and nutty contrast to the dish.
Home Cooking Methods
Step 1: Making Fresh Pasta
The foundation of this dish begins with creating fresh pasta. Combine flour and eggs, using a ratio of roughly 100 grams of flour for each egg. Knead until you achieve a smooth consistency, wrap the dough in plastic, and let it rest for about 30 minutes. Roll the dough out thinly using a pasta machine or a rolling pin, then cut it into your preferred shape.
Step 2: Preparing the Sausage
While the pasta is resting, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Remove the casing from the Italian sausage and crumble it into the pan. Sauté the sausage until browned, releasing its savory fat and juices. This crucial step will infuse the dish with flavor.
Step 3: Building the Sauce
Once the sausage has browned, add finely chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and fragrant. Next, incorporate chopped fresh tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes, allowing them to blossom with sweetness as they meld with the sausage and aromatics. Season with salt, pepper, and your choice of fresh herbs – basil and oregano work wonderfully together.
Step 4: Cooking the Pasta
In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil and add the fresh pasta. Cooking time will vary; fresh pasta typically takes 24 minutes to cook to al dente perfection. Once the pasta is ready, reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
Step 5: Combining the Flavors
Add the drained pasta directly to the sausage and sauce mixture in the skillet. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if necessary to create a luscious sauce that clings to the noodles.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Sprinkle generously with grated ParmigianoReggiano and fresh herbs before serving. A drizzle of goodquality olive oil can elevate the dish further, adding richness.
Serve with Love
This pasta with Italian sausage embodies the spirit of Emilian cuisine by honoring fresh ingredients and straightforward cooking methods. Gather your loved ones and serve this comforting dish as part of a cozy family meal, showcasing the heartwarming traditions that come from home cooking.