Spicy Italian Fusilli Pasta with Pancetta and Salami
Are you in search of a dish that encapsulates the essence of Italian culinary tradition and the spicy flavor that never fails to surprise the palate? Today, I’ll guide you step by step in creating a hearty and flavorful first course, perfect for those who aren’t afraid of bold flavors: an enhanced version of classic fusilli pasta, embraced by a rich sauce with pancetta, spicy salami, and a selection of your choice of meat.
I still remember the first time I tasted this dish: it was a Sunday with family, the air filled with the spicy aroma of salami while outside the window, the streets were wet from the typical spring drizzle. That warmth and liveliness in flavor immediately won me over. The creaminess of the ricotta combined with the fiery kick of chili created an unforgettable contrast on my palate.
Preparing this specialty is not just a way to nourish yourself but also to travel with the mind to those Mediterranean atmospheres where every bite is a story to tell. And if you want to add that personal touch that makes every recipe special, be inspired by the final twist that suggests adding freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano and hand-torn basil.
Now you are ready to immerse yourself in the Neapolitan culinary adventure; put on your apron and get ready to amaze yourself and your guests!
Recipe Notes
- EASE: A classic recipe with a personal twist.
- PROS: Rich and flavorful sauce, easy to make.
- CONS: Long cooking time.
- PREPARATION: Sauce needs to simmer for at least an hour.
- NUTRITIONAL NOTES: Approximately 850 calories per serving.
Ingredients Notes for the Recipe
- Short Pasta: perfect for trapping the sauce
- Bacon and Spicy Napoli Salami: add intense flavor
- Meat (lamb, goat, pork, or mixed): adds texture to the sauce
- Ricotta Cheese: adds creaminess to the seasoning
- Concentrated Tomato Sauce: intensifies the sauce’s flavor
- Olive Oil and Dry White Wine: enrich the seasoning with fruity and aromatic notes
- Onion, Celery, Carrot, Garlic, Salt, Pepper, Chili: flavor and regulate the taste of the sauce
Nutritional Aspects
The Spicy Salami Fusilli Neapolitan Recipe is a burst of flavors and energy. Here are some of its nutritional benefits:
- High energy intake, approximately 850 Kcal per serving.
- Quality proteins from the meat and salami for muscle strength.
- Complex carbohydrates from the fusilli for long-lasting energy.
- Vitamins and minerals from the freshly chopped vegetables.
- Good fats from the olive oil, essential for overall health.
- Ricotta as a source of calcium for strong bones.
Recipe for Fusilli Alla Napoletana with Spicy Salami
Instructions
- Start by finely chopping the onion, celery, carrot, and garlic.
- Cut the pancetta and spicy salami into small cubes.
- In a large pan, heat a glass of olive oil and sauté the chopped mixture along with the pancetta, salami, and chosen meat.
- Deglaze with the dry white wine, adding it gradually to prevent the ingredients from sticking.
- Crumble the ricotta into the sauce, mix well to blend the flavors, and season with salt, pepper, and chili to taste.
- Incorporate the four tablespoons of concentrated tomato sauce and let it cook over moderate heat for at least an hour, so that all the flavors blend perfectly.
- Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil to cook the fusilli until 'al dente'.
- Drain the pasta and immediately toss it with the prepared hot sauce.
Notes
Variations of Neapolitan Fusilli with Spicy Salami
Customize the traditional recipe with these variations
- Swap out the spicy salami for hot sausage to add a different twist.
- Replace the ricotta with grated pecorino for a bolder flavor.
- Add Taggiasca black olives for a salty and Mediterranean touch.
- Try cooking the pasta in beef broth instead of water for a richer taste.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe
If you have any doubts about making this dish, you’ll find answers to the most common questions here.
How can I substitute lamb or kid meat?
You can replace it with pork or a mix of meats of your choice.
Can I use a different wine than dry white?
Yes, you can experiment with a dry red wine for a different twist.
How can I adapt the recipe to make it lighter?
You can reduce the amount of pancetta and salami and opt for light ricotta.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it before dressing the pasta?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it before serving the pasta.