Contents
Introduction
Spaghetti with fresh soppressata offers a delightful combination of flavors that exemplifies the beauty of Italian cooking. This simple yet robust dish highlights the qualities of high-quality ingredients, including the rich flavors of soppressata, a cured Italian salami. The balance of spices, garlic, and a touch of red pepper flakes creates a dish that is both comforting and satisfying, making it perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Spaghetti: 12 ounces
– Fresh soppressata: 4 ounces, sliced
– Extra-virgin olive oil: 3 tablespoons
– Garlic: 3 cloves, thinly sliced
– Crushed red pepper flakes: 1 teaspoon
– Fresh parsley: ¼ cup, chopped
– Parmesan cheese: for serving, freshly grated
– Salt: to taste
– Black pepper: to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, generously salt the water. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the spaghetti.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped soppressata and cook until crispy, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add minced garlic to the skillet with soppressata and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Immediately add the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss to combine.
Step 4: Add Pasta Water
Gradually add the reserved pasta cooking water, beginning with ½ cup, to the skillet while tossing the spaghetti. Continue adding more water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Step 5: Final Touches
Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve
Divide the spaghetti among serving plates. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired, then serve immediately.
Notes
Ingredient Variations
You can substitute soppressata with other cured meats like salami or pancetta if preferred.
Serving Suggestions
Pair the dish with a fresh salad or crusty bread to complete the meal.
Storage Information
Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to revive the sauce.
Cook techniques
Cooking Spaghetti
Use a large pot of boiling salted water to cook the spaghetti. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Sautéing Soppressata
Sauté the soppressata in a skillet over medium heat until it becomes crispy and releases its flavors.
Combining Ingredients
After cooking, add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the soppressata, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Adjusting Consistency
If the pasta seems dry, you can add a splash of pasta water to help create a cohesive sauce.
Finishing Touches
Finish the dish with freshly grated cheese and chopped herbs for an added layer of flavor and freshness.
FAQ
What type of pasta can I use?
Spaghetti is recommended, but you can use other long pasta varieties if preferred.
Can I use another type of meat instead of soppressata?
Yes, you can substitute with other cured meats like pancetta or chorizo.
How do I know when the spaghetti is al dente?
Taste a strand of spaghetti a minute or two before the package cooking time ends; it should be firm but cooked through.
Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components separately in advance and combine them when ready to serve.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?
You can omit the soppressata and add vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for a vegetarian version.
Conclusion
The Spaghetti with Fresh Soppressata offers a delightful blend of flavors, combining the rich, savory notes of crafted soppressata with the simplicity of al dente pasta. This dish not only highlights the quality of its ingredients but also emphasizes the beauty of Italian cooking, where less is often more. Whether enjoyed as a weeknight meal or served at a gathering, it’s sure to impress.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pasta alla Puttanesca
Combine spaghetti with a sauce of tomatoes, olives, capers, and garlic for a piquant flavor profile that complements soppressata.
Spaghetti Carbonara
Creamy, cheesy carbonara made with pancetta or bacon can provide a rich counterpoint to the firmer texture of soppressata.
Italian Sausage and Peppers
Serve spicy Italian sausage and sautéed bell peppers alongside your soppressata for an added kick.
Bruschetta with Soppressata
Top toasted bread with fresh tomatoes, basil, and slices of soppressata for a flavorful appetizer or snack.
Caprese Salad
Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze can be a refreshing side that pairs nicely with the hearty pasta dish.
Pesto Pasta Salad
Cold pasta salad with pesto and roasted vegetables can provide a vibrant and fresh contrast to the robust flavors of soppressata.
Classic Margherita Pizza
A simple Margherita pizza topped with soppressata adds a savory twist to the traditional cheese and basil combination.
