We’ve always been fascinated by the charm of Italian pasta shapes, and Creste di Gallo stands out with its whimsical rooster crest design. Hailing from the heart of Italy, this pasta isn’t just fun to eat—it’s versatile for creating hearty meals that bring a taste of tradition to your table.
In our recipe, we’ll guide you through a simple yet flavorful Creste di Gallo dish that highlights fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you’re a pasta enthusiast or new to this shape, it’s an easy way to elevate your home cooking.
Ingredients
As we dive into our Creste di Gallo pasta recipe, we focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients that highlight the pasta’s unique rooster crest shape and its ability to absorb bold flavors. We’ve selected these items to ensure a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for everyday meals or special occasions.
To prepare our Creste di Gallo pasta, gather the following ingredients in the order they are used. We recommend using organic options where possible for enhanced taste and texture.
- 8 ounces Creste di Gallo pasta: Our star ingredient—dried and ready to boil for that perfect al dente bite that captures sauces beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Extra-virgin variety, used first to sauté aromatics and build a rich base.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Yellow onion for its sweetness; prep by dicing it small to release flavors early in cooking.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic for a pungent kick; mince just before use to preserve its bold aroma.
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes: San Marzano type for authentic Italian taste; use as the sauce foundation for a hearty, vibrant red sauce.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Rub between palms to release oils before adding, enhancing the herbaceous notes that complement the pasta’s texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Optional for a subtle heat; adjust based on your preference for spicy undertones in our flavorful recipe.
- 4 ounces Italian sausage, casing removed and crumbled: Ground and browned next for added protein and depth; choose mild or hot for customization.
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn: Added towards the end; tear by hand to avoid bruising and infuse fresh, peppery flavors.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated for creaminess; sprinkle over the finished dish to tie together the bold, savory elements.
These ingredients come together to create a versatile Creste di Gallo pasta meal that’s not only easy to prepare but also packed with the fresh tastes and textures we love in Italian cuisine.
Equipment Needed
To bring our Creste di Gallo pasta recipe to life, we rely on a handful of essential tools that ensure efficient preparation and optimal results. These items help us handle the boiling, sautéing, and assembling of this flavorful Italian dish with ease.
Essential Tools
When crafting our Creste di Gallo pasta, we recommend the following Essential Tools to streamline the process and achieve the best texture and flavor:
- Large Stock Pot: A 6- to 8-quart pot for boiling the pasta; it allows ample space to prevent sticking and ensures even cooking of the 8 ounces of Creste di Gallo pasta.
- Skillet or Frying Pan: A 10- to 12-inch non-stick or stainless steel pan for browning the Italian sausage and simmering the sauce with ingredients like onions, garlic, and San Marzano tomatoes.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring the sauce to incorporate flavors from dried oregano and red pepper flakes without scratching the pan.
- Chef’s Knife: A sharp 8-inch knife for finely chopping onions and mincing garlic, ensuring precise cuts that enhance the dish’s fresh taste.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy bamboo or plastic board to provide a safe surface for prep work, keeping our kitchen organized during the assembly of fresh basil and other ingredients.
- Colander: Essential for draining the boiled Creste di Gallo pasta, helping to remove excess water so the pasta can absorb the sauce’s bold flavors effectively.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate 1-cup and 1-tablespoon sets for measuring ingredients like olive oil and grated Parmesan cheese, guaranteeing the recipe’s balance of tastes.
By using these tools, we elevate our Creste di Gallo pasta experience from simple cooking to a professional-level endeavor.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through the straightforward steps to create a flavorful Creste di Gallo pasta dish that highlights its unique, crest-shaped texture for optimal sauce absorption.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we start cooking, let’s prep our ingredients to ensure everything is ready for seamless assembly. Begin by finely chopping 1 medium onion and mincing 3 cloves of garlic to release their aromatic essence. Next, measure out 8 ounces of Creste di Gallo pasta and set it aside in a dry bowl. Crumble 1/2 pound of Italian sausage into small pieces for even browning, and tear 10 fresh basil leaves into strips to infuse a burst of herbaceous flavor. In separate bowls, portion 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed San Marzano tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick, and 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil for richness. Finally, grate 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese to add a nutty, creamy finish—prepping this way keeps our workflow efficient and our flavors vibrant.
Cook the Pasta
With ingredients prepped, we now boil the pasta to achieve that perfect al dente bite. Fill a large stock pot with 4 quarts of salted water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat—aim for water that tastes like the sea to enhance the pasta’s flavor. Add the 8 ounces of Creste di Gallo pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon to prevent sticking. Once the pasta is tender yet firm, drain it in a colander, reserving 1 cup of starchy pasta water for later—this liquid helps create a silky sauce that clings to the pasta’s ridges, elevating the overall mouthfeel.
Make the Sauce
Now we build the sauce, layering bold flavors that complement the Creste di Gallo pasta‘s hearty shape. Heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until it shimmers, then add the crumbled 1/2 pound of Italian sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring with a silicone spatula until browned and fragrant with savory notes. Incorporate the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until softened and aromatic, filling your kitchen with an irresistible garlic scent. Stir in the 28 ounces of crushed San Marzano tomatoes, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, then simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes to meld the flavors into a rich, tangy sauce that bubbles gently and coats the back of a spoon.
Assemble and Serve
Finally, we bring it all together for a satisfying finish. In the skillet with the sauce, add the drained Creste di Gallo pasta along with 1/4 cup of the reserved pasta water, tossing everything for 1-2 minutes over medium heat until the pasta absorbs the sauce and develops a glossy sheen. Fold in the torn basil leaves for a fresh, peppery aroma, then remove from heat and sprinkle with the grated Parmesan cheese for a melty, umami boost. Serve immediately in warm bowls, allowing the pasta’s textured crests to hold the sauce, delivering a comforting blend of spicy, herbaceous, and cheesy sensations in every bite.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Creste di Gallo recipe, as it’s a simple way to bring authentic Italian flavors into our kitchens. It’s perfect for creating memorable meals that highlight fresh ingredients and bold tastes.
Next time you’re in the mood for something hearty, give this dish a try—it’s sure to become one of our go-to favorites. We’re confident you’ll enjoy the process and the delicious results just as much as we do.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creste di Gallo pasta?
Creste di Gallo is an Italian pasta shaped like a rooster’s crest, known for its ability to hold sauces well. It’s versatile for traditional meals and appeals to both beginners and seasoned cooks, adding a unique texture to dishes.
What ingredients are needed for the Creste di Gallo recipe?
The recipe calls for 8 ounces of Creste di Gallo pasta, extra-virgin olive oil, chopped onion, minced garlic, crushed San Marzano tomatoes, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, Italian sausage, fresh basil, and grated Parmesan cheese. Focus on fresh, high-quality items for the best flavor.
How do I prepare the Creste di Gallo pasta dish?
Boil the pasta in a large pot until al dente. In a skillet, sauté sausage, onion, and garlic, then add tomatoes, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce, and finish with fresh basil and Parmesan for a hearty meal.
What equipment is required for this recipe?
You’ll need a large stock pot for boiling pasta, a skillet for cooking the sauce, a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring, a chef’s knife and cutting board for prep, a colander for draining, and measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
Can I substitute ingredients in the recipe?
Yes, you can swap Italian sausage for ground turkey or veggies for a vegetarian version. Use fresh herbs if available, but stick to high-quality tomatoes and olive oil to maintain the authentic Italian flavors.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Absolutely, it’s simple and straightforward with basic steps like boiling pasta and sautéing ingredients. Using fresh items and following the instructions will help you create a delicious meal without much experience.