Pasta with Sicilian Sauce is a delightful Italian dish that combines the richness of tomatoes, the sweetness of sultanas, and the nutty flavor of pine nuts. This recipe showcases the flavors of Sicily, bringing together a harmonious blend of ingredients that create a memorable culinary experience. The sultanas add a touch of sweetness, while the tomatoes provide a burst of freshness. The pine nuts add a pleasant crunch and nuttiness, while the anchovies lend a subtle umami depth to the sauce. This pasta dish is simple yet full of flavor, making it a perfect option for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. Follow the steps below to create a Pasta with Sicilian Sauce that will transport you to the sun-soaked landscapes of Italy.
INGREDIENTS:
- 50g/2oz sultanas
- 450g/1lb tomatoes, halved
- 25g/1oz pine nuts
- 50g/2oz canned anchovies, drained and halved lengthways
- 2 tablespoons tomato purée
- 675g/1lb 8oz dried penne
PREPARATIONS:
- Soak the sultanas in a bowl of warm water for about 20 minutes. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Cook the tomatoes under a preheated grill for about 10 minutes. Leave to cool slightly, then peel off the skin and dice the flesh.
- Put the pine nuts on a baking tray and lightly toast under the grill for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Be careful not to scorch them.
- Put the diced tomatoes, toasted pine nuts, and drained sultanas in a small saucepan and gently heat through. Add the anchovies and tomato purée, and heat the sauce for a further 2-3 minutes until hot. Keep warm.
- Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta in a saucepan of salted boiling water for 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain thoroughly.
- Transfer the cooked penne pasta to a serving dish. Pour the hot Sicilian sauce over the top and toss gently to coat the pasta. Serve immediately.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- Soak the sultanas in warm water to soften and plump them before adding them to the sauce.
- Take care not to scorch the pine nuts while toasting them under the grill.
- Adjust the seasoning of the sauce to taste. If desired, add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
TIPS:
- Garnish the Pasta with Sicilian Sauce with fresh basil leaves or grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.
- Consider adding a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over the finished dish to enhance its richness.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the anchovies or substitute them with capers for a similar tangy flavor.
- Customize the recipe by adding other ingredients such as olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs based on your preference.
YIELD:
Serves 4.
Pasta with Sicilian Sauce is a delightful Italian dish that captures the flavors of the sunny island of Sicily. This recipe combines tomatoes, sultanas, pine nuts, and anchovies to create a unique and memorable flavor profile. The sweetness of the sultanas, the nuttiness of the pine nuts, and the umami depth of the anchovies complement the richness of the tomatoes, resulting in a harmonious and satisfying sauce.
The pasta is cooked to al dente perfection and then coated with the flavorful Sicilian sauce. The combination of textures and flavors creates a delightful eating experience that will transport you to the charming streets of Italy.
Preparing Pasta with Sicilian Sauce is straightforward and can be done in a relatively short amount of time, making it a great option for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal. The recipe can be customized to your liking by adding additional ingredients such as olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or fresh herbs.
Garnish the dish with fresh basil leaves or grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation. The final touch of extra virgin olive oil drizzled over the pasta enhances its richness.
Whether you’re a fan of Sicilian cuisine or simply looking for a delicious and flavorful pasta dish, Pasta with Sicilian Sauce is sure to impress. Bring the flavors of Sicily to your table by following the simple steps outlined above and savor the delightful tastes of this Italian classic.
