Paccheri alla Scarpariello

Ingredients:

320 g paccheri

400 g fresh or peeled cherry tomatoes

1 clove of garlic

grated cheese (parmesan and/or pecorino)

extra virgin olive oil

salt

basil

Instructions:

Step 1:

Put the water for the pasta on the heat in a large pan.

Step 2:

Fry the garlic clove in a pan with extra virgin olive oil.

As soon as it is golden brown, add the tomato, season with salt and leave to cook over a low heat for about 15 minutes.

Remove the garlic clove.

Step 3:

Cook the pasta in boiling salted water and drain it al dente.

Step 4:

Transfer it to the pan with the tomato sauce and sauté it together with a handful of grated parmesan and pecorino, mixing all the ingredients well, until you create an enveloping sauce.

Step 5:

Serve with a few basil leaves and a drizzle of raw oil.

Enjoy

Notes:

Simplicity: This recipe exemplifies the beauty of Italian cuisine with its simple yet delicious combination of ingredients. The focus is on quality ingredients and minimal fuss.

Paccheri Pasta: Paccheri, a large tubular pasta, is ideal for this dish as it captures the sauce and provides a satisfying bite. However, you can substitute it with other short pasta shapes if needed.

Fresh Ingredients: The recipe calls for fresh cherry tomatoes, garlic, basil, and high-quality olive oil. Using fresh, seasonal produce enhances the flavors of the dish and adds a vibrant touch.

Garlic Infusion: Frying the garlic in olive oil releases its aroma and flavors, infusing the oil with a subtle garlic essence. This step adds depth to the tomato sauce without overpowering it.

Tomato Sauce: Slow-cooking the cherry tomatoes with garlic and olive oil creates a simple yet flavorful sauce. Allowing the tomatoes to simmer gently intensifies their sweetness and creates a rich base for the pasta.

Cheese: Grated Parmesan and/or Pecorino cheese add a savory depth to the dish and create a creamy texture when mixed with the pasta. The choice between Parmesan and Pecorino, or a combination of both, adds versatility and personal preference to the recipe.

Fresh Basil: Adding fresh basil leaves at the end of cooking provides a burst of freshness and a hint of herbaceous flavor. It complements the sweetness of the tomatoes and adds a pop of color to the dish.

Finishing Touch: A final drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving enhances the dish’s richness and ties all the flavors together. It adds a luxurious touch and enhances the aroma of the fresh basil.

Versatility: While this recipe is delicious as is, you can customize it based on your preferences. Additions such as chili flakes for heat, olives for brininess, or anchovies for umami depth can elevate the dish even further.

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Enjoyment: Paccheri alla Scarpariello is meant to be enjoyed with family and friends. Serve it alongside a crisp salad and a glass of wine for a satisfying and memorable meal. Buon appetito!

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 4 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of pasta if I can’t find paccheri?

Yes, you can substitute paccheri with other large tubular pasta such as rigatoni or mezze maniche.

Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh cherry tomatoes?

While fresh cherry tomatoes are preferred for their vibrant flavor, you can use canned tomatoes as a substitute.

Just be sure to drain them before adding them to the sauce.

Is it necessary to peel the cherry tomatoes?

Peeling the cherry tomatoes is optional.

If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can peel them by blanching them in hot water for a few seconds, then transferring them to ice water and peeling off the skins.

Can I omit the garlic from the recipe?

While garlic adds depth of flavor to the dish, you can omit it if you prefer a milder taste or if you have dietary restrictions.

What type of grated cheese should I use?

You can use Parmesan, Pecorino, or a combination of both for a more complex flavor profile.

Choose high-quality, freshly grated cheese for the best results.

How much salt should I add to the pasta water?

As a general guideline, add about 1-2 tablespoons of salt per gallon of water when cooking pasta.

Adjust according to your taste preference.

Can I make this dish ahead of time and reheat it later?

While Paccheri alla Scarpariello is best enjoyed freshly made, you can make the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop and cook the pasta just before serving.

What other herbs can I use besides basil?

In addition to basil, you can use parsley, oregano, or thyme to add different herbaceous notes to the dish.

Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the grated cheese made from animal rennet or use a vegetarian-friendly cheese alternative.

You can also add more vegetables such as roasted bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and texture.

Can I add meat or seafood to the dish?

Yes, you can customize this dish by adding cooked Italian sausage, shrimp, or chicken to the sauce for extra protein.

Just ensure that the meat or seafood is fully cooked before adding it to the sauce.