Cozy Night In: Creamy Rigatoni with Sausage and Greens
As the days get shorter and the nights get cooler, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of pasta. This recipe for Creamy Rigatoni with Sausage and Greens is not just a meal; it's a hug in a bowl, perfect for a cozy night in, whether you're flying solo, with a loved one, or surrounded by family.
The Magic of Rigatoni
Why rigatoni, you ask? Well, these wonderful ridged tubes are perfect for capturing every bit of the delicious sauce, ensuring that each bite is as flavorful as the last. Their hearty shape also holds up well, giving that perfect al dente texture.
A Symphony of Flavors
This dish isn't just about pasta; it’s about the carefully balanced flavors that come together to create something truly special:
- Savory Sausage: The richness of browned Italian sausage creates a robust base for the sauce.
- Aromatic Vegetables: A gentle sauté of fennel and onion provides a sweet and fragrant foundation, while the garlic adds a much-needed punch.
- Healthy Greens: Tender kale not only adds a pop of color but also packs in nutrients, making this a meal that's both satisfying and good for you. Feel free to experiment with spinach for a milder flavor.
- Silky Tomato Cream Sauce: The real magic happens when the tomato paste, white wine, and heavy cream combine, creating a luxurious sauce that coats every piece of pasta with perfection.
- Fennel Seeds and Red Pepper Flakes: A pinch of crushed fennel seeds adds a touch of anise-like warmth, while red pepper flakes provide a gentle heat that elevates the flavors.
- Fresh Parmesan: A generous grating of Parmesan cheese not only adds a salty kick but also ties everything together in cheesy goodness.
Customize Your Comfort
The best part about this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to make substitutions based on your preference:
- Swap the Sausage: If you're not a fan of sausage, try using scallops or shrimp for a different kind of protein punch.
- Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, try using coconut milk or a cashew cream to achieve that creamy texture.
- Fennel or Celery? Don't love fennel? Celery makes a great alternative.
- Spice Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes to match your spice preference.
A Meal to Remember
This Creamy Rigatoni with Sausage and Greens is more than just a meal; it's an experience. It's about the comfort of a warm dish on a cold night, the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones, or simply the pleasure of indulging in something delicious. So, gather your ingredients, put on your favorite music, and let this recipe transform your evening into a truly special one.
Recipe:
Yields: 6 servings Prep time: 30 minutes Cook time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 lb rigatoni
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups chopped fennel or celery
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 1 lb ground mild Italian sausage
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds, crushed
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups chopped kale
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 cups reserved pasta water
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Cook rigatoni according to package directions in well-salted water. Reserve 2 cups of the starchy water when you drain.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add fennel and onion, sauté until soft.
- Brown the Sausage: Add the sausage to the pot, cooking it, breaking into smaller pieces until browned.
- Create the Sauce Base: Reduce heat and add garlic, fennel seeds, and tomato paste. Cook until fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Add Wine and Cream: Pour in white wine, let it sizzle, then add the heavy cream and let it simmer.
- Add Greens: Stir in kale and season with salt.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta into the sauce, using reserved pasta water to thin if needed. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Top with red pepper flakes and serve.
Tips and Tricks:
- For extra flavor use 2 teaspoons of fennel seeds when using celery.
- Cook pasta al dente to prevent it from getting too soft after adding to the sauce.
- Serve with some crusty bread to soak up all the sauce!
Enjoy your delicious, cozy night in!