Chorizo pasta is a delicious fusion dish that brings together the robust flavors of Spanish chorizo with the comforting elements of classic pasta. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, offering both satisfaction and a touch of gourmet dining at home.
Why We Love This Chorizo Pasta Recipe
There’s a lot to love about chorizo pasta. First and foremost, it’s incredibly flavorful. The smoky, spicy profile of the chorizo combined with the creaminess of the sauce creates an irresistible harmony that delights the senses.
Another reason for your love affair with this dish is its versatility. You can adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary needs or personal preferences. Whether you prefer a lighter version with more vegetables, or you want to enhance it with additional spices, chorizo pasta can adapt to whatever you fancy.
Moreover, it’s quick to prepare, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a comforting, satisfying meal on your dining table—what’s not to love?
Ingredients for Chorizo Pasta
To prepare a delicious chorizo pasta dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (choose your favorite type)
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 (8.8 ounce) coil Spanish chorizo sausage, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 small onion, chopped finely
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How to Make Chorizo Pasta Directions
Making chorizo pasta is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Bring it to a rolling boil and add your pasta. Cook it until it reaches the perfect al dente texture, according to the package instructions. Typically, this will take about 8 to 10 minutes.
While the pasta is cooking, it’s time to prepare the chorizo sauce. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the sliced chorizo. Sauté the chorizo for about 5 minutes until it begins to turn crispy and releases its fragrant oils.
Next, add the chopped onion to the skillet. Cook the onion for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until it softens and becomes translucent. Afterward, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s aromatic but not browned.
Now it’s time to bring your sauce together. Pour the can of diced tomatoes, with all the juices, into the skillet. This adds a rich base to your sauce. Then, add the heavy cream and stir well. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the sauce thicken to your desired consistency.
Once the pasta is ready, drain it and reserve a bit of the pasta water. Toss the drained pasta into the skillet with the chorizo sauce. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Mix everything thoroughly so that each strand of pasta is coated with that delicious chorizo sauce.
Before serving, taste the dish and season with salt and pepper as desired.
How to Serve Chorizo Pasta
Serving chorizo pasta can be as simple or as elegant as you like. Once the pasta is mixed with the sauce, divide it among plates or serve it in a large bowl for a family-style presentation.
For an extra touch, consider garnishing your dish with freshly grated parmesan cheese. The cheese adds a delightful bite that complements the spiciness of the chorizo well. You might also sprinkle some chopped fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, over the top for a pop of color and added flavor.
Chorizo pasta does well with a side of crusty bread, which is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce on your plate. Serve it alongside a simple green salad to round out the meal.
Expert Tips for Chorizo Pasta
- Choose the Right Pasta: While traditional spaghetti often comes to mind, consider experimenting with different pasta types such as penne, fusilli, or even farfalle. Each shape holds the sauce differently, adding a unique twist to your dish.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, use a less spicy chorizo sausage. Conversely, if you enjoy spiciness, feel free to toss in some red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Add Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value of your pasta by adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini. Simply sauté them along with the onion before adding the garlic.
- Timing is Key: Make sure to keep an eye on your pasta while it cooks. Overcooking can result in a mushy texture, while undercooking can leave it too tough. A short test to see if it’s al dente will help achieve the perfect bite.
- Save Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water is a great way to adjust the sauce’s consistency without losing flavor. It creates a silky texture that clings wonderfully to the pasta.
How to Store Chorizo Pasta
If you have any leftovers from your delightful chorizo pasta dish, storing it correctly is essential for keeping it fresh. To do this, allow your pasta to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help prevent steam buildup, which can lead to sogginess.
When stored correctly, chorizo pasta can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in a skillet over medium heat. If it’s too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce.
For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the pasta. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags. You can keep frozen chorizo pasta for about 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Variations of Chorizo Pasta
Chorizo pasta is inherently versatile, allowing you to play around with its ingredients. Here are some variations you might consider:
- Chorizo and Shrimp: Toss in some sautéed shrimp for an exciting surf-and-turf twist on your chorizo pasta. This combination adds a lovely contrast of flavors and textures.
- Vegetable Mixed Chorizo Pasta: Make your dish more colorful by incorporating a mix of seasonal vegetables. Peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms support the dish’s heartiness while keeping it vibrant.
- Cheesy Chorizo Pasta Bake: Turn your chorizo pasta into a bake. After mixing the pasta with the sauce, transfer it to a baking dish, sprinkle with cheese on top, and bake at 350°F until bubbly and golden.
- Pasta Primavera Chorizo Pasta: Combine your chorizo with an assortment of fresh vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes. This option is not only healthier but also brings a burst of color to your plate.
- Herbed Chorizo Pasta: Experiment with different herbs, such as thyme, oregano or coriander, to add further depth and flavor to your sauce. Fresh herbs can elevate your dish to a new level of aroma and taste.
FAQ about Chorizo Pasta
What type of pasta is best for chorizo pasta?
While you can use any pasta type, short shapes like penne or farfalle work particularly well as they hold on to the sauce effectively. However, feel free to use spaghetti or linguine for a classic approach.
Can I use chicken instead of chorizo?
Yes, if you’re looking to replace the chorizo with a leaner protein, diced chicken or turkey can make a great alternative. Season it well to compensate for the lack of chorizo’s smokiness.
Is chorizo pasta a good meal prep option?
Absolutely! Chorizo pasta can be made in advance and stored in your refrigerator or freezer. Just make sure to reheat it properly to maintain its flavor and texture.
How can I make chorizo pasta lighter?
To make a lighter version, opt for whole grain pasta, use low-fat cream, and add plenty of vegetables. You can also reduce the amount of cream for a less rich sauce.
Can I make chorizo pasta dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative such as coconut cream or almond milk combined with a thickener. You can also skip the cheese for a dairy-free option.
Chorizo Pasta
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta Choose your favorite type
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
For the Sauce
- 1 coil Spanish chorizo sausage, cut into small pieces Approx. 8.8 ounces
- 1/2 small onion, chopped finely
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes with juices 14 ounces
- 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream
- to taste salt and pepper
- to taste freshly grated parmesan cheese Optional, for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chorizo and sauté for about 5 minutes until crispy.
- Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add diced tomatoes (with juices) and heavy cream, stirring well. Allow to simmer for 5 minutes.
- Drain cooked pasta, reserving a bit of the pasta water. Toss the pasta into the skillet with the chorizo sauce, adding reserved water as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper as desired before serving.
Serving
- Divide pasta among plates or serve family-style. Garnish with parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.