Penne Rigate with Spicy Chorizo and Tomato Sauce
A fusion of Italian and Spanish flavors, this pasta dish combines spicy chorizo with a rich tomato sauce.
Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
20 min
Total Time
30 min
Servings
4
The dish is a testament to the evolution of regional cuisines, influenced by the interchange between Mediterranean countries. Historically, chorizo may not have been a mainstay in Italian kitchens, but as cultures intertwined, so did their flavors. This pasta dish reflects a modern take on such gastronomic blendings, peppering the love Italians have for their pasta with the Spanish passion for piquant cured meats.
Ingredients
- 350g penne rigate pasta
- 200g chorizo, sliced into rounds
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 400g canned chopped tomatoes
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- 1
Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- 2
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the chorizo slices and cook until they start to brown and release their aromatic oils.
- 3
Add the garlic and onion to the pan with the chorizo, sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- 4
Stir in the chopped tomatoes, smoked paprika, chili flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- 5
Add the cooked penne to the sauce and toss well to coat each piece of pasta with the rich, spicy tomato sauce.
- 6
Serve the pasta hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Chef's Tip
For best results, let the chorizo slightly crisp up in the pan to unleash a deeper flavor that infuses the whole dish.
Fun Fact
The word 'chorizo' is believed to derive from the Spanish 'chorrear', meaning 'to drip', which may refer to the fat rendered from the sausage as it cooks.
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I'm a web developer with a passion for cooking, especially when it comes to pasta. Spaghetti to ravioli, I love it all. I'm also fascinated by the rich tastes of Peruvian cuisine. Follow along as I combine tech and cooking, creating easy-to-follow digital recipes that highlight the pleasure of delicious food.