Imagine a plate of Italian pasta with salami, steaming hot and drizzled with olive oil, the savory aroma wafting through your kitchen like an unexpected hug from an old friend. The tender pasta dances with lively bits of spicy salami, and the bright red sauce clings to each noodle like a warm blanket on a chilly evening. This dish is not just food; it’s a celebration on a plate, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
As I twirl my fork into this delightful creation, memories flood back of summer BBQs where laughter mingled with the scent of grilled delights. Friends gathered around, plates piled high, and somehow, this Italian pasta with salami always made its way to the center of the table, claiming its rightful spot as the star of the show. Sheet pan kielbasa dinner Kielbasa pasta bake recipe Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or an impromptu gathering, this dish promises to elevate any occasion with its bold flavors and comforting essence.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Italian pasta with salami is easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- Its rich flavor profile balances spicy and savory notes that delight your taste buds
- The vibrant colors create an appealing presentation that impresses guests
- Perfect for family meals but versatile enough for potlucks or picnics
There was that time my cousin Sophie took one bite and declared it “life-changing,” which made me giggle because she had just eaten a mountain of it!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Spaghetti: Opt for high-quality durum wheat spaghetti for a firm texture that holds up beautifully.
- Salami: Choose your favorite variety; spicy salami adds a great kick while mild options keep it classic.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for drizzling; it enhances flavor and brings out the richness in the dish.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential; it infuses the dish with aromatic goodness. For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Garlic Butter Bombs recipe.
- Tomato Sauce: A good quality tomato sauce makes all the difference; look for one without added sugar.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty creaminess that complements the pasta perfectly.
- Fresh Basil: A handful of fresh basil gives a burst of herbal freshness—don’t skip this!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Cook Pasta to Perfection: Begin by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt generously—think ocean waves—and then toss in the spaghetti. Cook until al dente according to package instructions.
Sauté Garlic and Salami: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sausage and rice skillet Sauté until fragrant, then toss in diced salami until crispy and golden brown.
Add Tomato Sauce: Pour in your tomato sauce and stir well, letting it simmer gently until heated through. The aroma will envelop your kitchen like an inviting hug.
Mingle Everything Together: Drain your pasta once cooked and reserve some cooking water. Toss spaghetti into the skillet with salami and sauce, adding reserved water as needed to create a luscious coating.
Finish with Flavorful Touches: Off heat, stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil until melted and combined. Taste for seasoning; adjust if necessary.
Serve Hot!: Plate your Italian pasta with salami while it’s still steaming. Garnish with additional Parmesan and basil for that restaurant-worthy look before diving in! For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Parmesan Smashed Potatoes recipe.
You Must Know
- This delightful Italian Pasta with Salami is not just a meal; it’s an experience!
- The savory aroma wafting through your kitchen will make you feel like you’ve been transported to a cozy trattoria in Italy
- Enjoy this dish fresh or as leftovers, it shines in both scenarios!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by boiling the pasta until al dente, then sauté the salami until crispy while preparing the sauce to ensure everything melds beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap salami for pepperoni or add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water to keep it moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked pasta, remember to salt your water generously before boiling
- Avoid overcooking the salami; crispy edges are key
- Lastly, always save a bit of pasta water for adjusting sauce consistency later
I remember the first time I made Italian Pasta with Salami for friends—it was a hit! They couldn’t stop raving about how comforting and flavorful it was, making me feel like a culinary rock star. Smoked sausage casserole.
FAQ
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Any pasta shape works well, but shorter shapes hold sauce better.
Is there a vegetarian version of Italian Pasta with Salami?
Yes! Substitute salami with mushrooms or tempeh for a delicious plant-based option.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or spicy salami to kick things up a notch!
Italian Pasta with Salami
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Italian Pasta with Salami is a delightful dish that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. Featuring tender spaghetti coated in a rich tomato sauce, zesty salami, and fragrant garlic, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. It’s easy to whip up for a weeknight dinner or serve at gatherings. With its perfect balance of spice and savory goodness, every bite offers a taste of Italy right in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 4 oz spicy salami, diced
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente according to package instructions (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and reserve some cooking water.
- 2. Sauté garlic and salami: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic; sauté until fragrant. Add diced salami and cook until crispy.
- 3. Add sauce: Pour in tomato sauce and stir well; let it simmer until heated through.
- 4. Combine: Toss cooked spaghetti into the skillet with the salami mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
- 5. Finish: Off heat, stir in Parmesan cheese and basil. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- 6. Serve: Plate hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and basil.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (250g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
