Overview
Southern Italian cuisine offers a vibrant and flavorful experience, showcasing the rich culinary heritage of regions like Campania, Calabria, and Sicily. This cuisine is renowned for its use of fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and simplicity, making it accessible for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Typical dishes reflect the abundance of the Mediterranean, focusing heavily on vegetables, olive oil, seafood, and hearty pastas.
Estimated prep time: 30 minutes
Estimated cook time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Intermediate
Regional origin: Campania, particularly famous for its pizzas and pastas.
Ingredients
- 500 grams (1 pound) of San Marzano tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 300 grams (10.5 ounces) of spaghetti or linguine
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 5 tablespoons (75 mL) of extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon (5 grams) of red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Fresh basil leaves (a handful)
- Salt, to taste
- 150 grams (5.3 ounces) of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino Romano cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Tomatoes (10 minutes): If using fresh tomatoes, score the bottoms with a knife and blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds. Transfer to ice water, peel, and chop. If using canned, simply crush them in a bowl.
- Sauté the Aromatics (5 minutes): In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté until the garlic is golden, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Tomatoes (15 minutes): Stir in the prepared tomatoes, season with salt, and simmer on low heat. Allow it to reduce and thicken, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the Pasta (10 minutes): Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti or linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce (5 minutes): Add the drained pasta to the sauce along with a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss well to combine, and let it cook for an additional minute to absorb flavors.
- Finish and Serve (5 minutes): Remove from heat, stir in fresh basil leaves, and serve topped with grated cheese. Enjoy immediately!
Variations & Substitutions
This Southern Italian pasta dish can be adapted in several ways:
- Vegan: Omit cheese or substitute with nutritional yeast.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta alternatives made from rice or corn.
- Flavor Variations: Add olives, capers, or anchovies for a regional twist; or include vegetables like zucchini or eggplant for a hearty summer dish.
Make Ahead, Storage & Reheating
This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta can be cooked fresh just before serving, or you can store already mixed pasta and sauce in the fridge.
For storage, keep your dish in an airtight container. It freezes well for up to 3 months; however, the texture may slightly change after thawing. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove with a splash of water or olive oil, stirring often to restore texture.
Nutrition (Approx.)
Calories per serving: 450
Macronutrients:
- Carbohydrates: 60 grams
- Protein: 10 grams
- Fat: 20 grams
- Fiber: 5 grams
Serving Suggestions
This Southern Italian dish pairs beautifully with:
- A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and parmesan.
- Crusty Italian bread for mopping up the sauce.
- A glass of Chianti or a crisp Italian white wine like Verdicchio.
- For family style, serve with grilled chicken or fish for added protein.
FAQs
- Can I use other types of tomatoes?
- Absolutely! Fresh Roma tomatoes or any good-quality canned tomatoes can work.
- How do I know when the pasta is al dente?
- Pasta should have a slight bite to it. Taste a piece a minute before the package instructions end.
- Can I make this dish without garlic?
- You can, although it significantly changes the flavor profile. Consider using shallots for a milder taste.
- What is the best way to store leftovers?
- Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Can I add protein to this dish?
- Yes! Grilled shrimp, chicken, or meatballs are excellent add-ins for extra protein.
Conclusion
Southern Italian cuisine embodies the essence of simplicity, flavor, and fresh ingredients. This dish serves as a fantastic introduction to the region’s culinary offerings. Remember, authenticity shines through in time-honored techniques and the quality of ingredients used. Next time you’re in the kitchen, embrace the warmth of Southern Italy and enjoy this delightful pasta dish.
