Name: Linguine with Creamy ‘Nduja Tomato Sauce: A Spicy Comfort Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 400 grams Linguine (Can substitute with spaghetti); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Vegetable oil can be used as an alternative); 1 cup Shallots (Can use onions if needed); 2 cloves Garlic (Fresh or powdered); 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste (No direct substitute, but can use reduced fresh tomatoes); to taste Salt; to taste Black Pepper; 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme (Use three times the amount if fresh); 150 grams 'Nduja (Swap with chorizo for less heat); 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice (White wine vinegar can be used as a substitute); 100 grams Sun-Dried Tomatoes (Can use fresh tomatoes with adjusted cooking time); 200 ml Cream (20% fat) (Half-and-half or coconut cream can substitute); 50 grams Grated Parmesan (Nutritional yeast is a vegan alternative); 2 tablespoons Chopped Parsley (Basil can substitute)

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There’s an electric thrill when you whip up a dish that takes just 20 minutes yet delivers incredible flavor. This Linguine with Creamy ‘Nduja Tomato Sauce will be your new weeknight hero, transforming simple ingredients into something spectacular. The star of the show, spicy ‘Nduja salami, melds seamlessly with sun-dried tomatoes and cream, creating a rich and comforting sauce that wraps around each strand of linguine. What’s more, this delightful recipe offers the perfect spice level, making it adaptable for those who prefer a milder touch. It’s quick, full of comforting goodness, and a sure crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy evenings or an intimate dinner. Are you ready to elevate your pasta game? Let’s dive into this delicious culinary adventure!

Why Is This Pasta Recipe So Special?

Ease of Preparation: This Linguine with Creamy ‘Nduja Tomato Sauce comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect choice for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious without the hassle.

Bold, Unique Flavor: The spicy ‘Nduja salami steals the show, blending beautifully with sun-dried tomatoes and creamy goodness to deliver a rich and unforgettable taste.

Versatile Adjustments: Prefer a milder dish? Simply reduce the amount of ‘Nduja, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy it.

Perfect Pairings: Pair it with a fresh side salad or a crusty piece of bread to scoop up every last drop of that luxurious sauce. You can even take it a step further and serve it alongside a Cheesy Baked Sauce for a comforting meal!

Impressive Crowd-Pleaser: Your family and guests will be raving about this dish, proving that homemade comfort food can indeed be gourmet!

Linguine with Creamy ‘Nduja Tomato Sauce Ingredients

• Get ready to delight your taste buds with this vibrant dish!

For the Pasta

Linguine – The perfect base that holds the creamy sauce beautifully; substitute with spaghetti if you’d like a twist.

For the Sauce

Olive Oil – Adds a rich undertone when sautéing; vegetable oil can be used for a lighter flavor.
Shallots – Provides a sweet aromatic base for the sauce; onions can be an effective stand-in in a pinch.
Garlic – Infuses the dish with robust flavor; opt for fresh garlic or powdered in a hurry.
Tomato Paste – Enhances richness and depth; no direct substitute, but reducing fresh tomatoes works.
Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for balancing flavors; adjust to your palate’s preference.
Dried Thyme – Contributes subtle herbaceous notes; fresh thyme is great but use thrice the amount.
‘Nduja – The star of the dish, this spicy salami melts into the sauce; swap with chorizo for less heat, using less.
Lemon Juice – Brightens flavors and adds acidity, white wine vinegar can replace it if needed.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Brings sweetness and texture, or fresh tomatoes if you adjust cooking time.
Cream (20% fat) – Delivers a lush, creamy texture; consider half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
Grated Parmesan – A finishing touch that adds umami; nutritional yeast is a fantastic vegan alternative.
Chopped Parsley – A fresh garnish that elevates the dish; basil can substitute if you prefer.

Enjoy crafting this Linguine with Creamy ‘Nduja Tomato Sauce. With its sumptuous ingredients and quick preparation, it’s an instant classic!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Linguine with Creamy ‘Nduja Tomato Sauce

Step 1: Boil Linguine
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the linguine and cook for about 9-11 minutes until al dente, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain the linguine and set it aside, awaiting its creamy companion.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat a generous drizzle of olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the diced shallots and minced garlic to the skillet, stirring often for about 3 minutes until they soften and become fragrant. Keep an eye on them; you want them translucent, not browned, to build a sweet aromatic base for the Linguine with Creamy ‘Nduja Tomato Sauce.

Step 3: Add Tomato Paste
Next, stir in the tomato paste, allowing it to meld with the aromatics. Cook this mixture for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently until the paste darkens slightly and releases its rich flavor. This step intensifies the sauce’s depth, setting the foundation for the creamy, spicy notes to come.

Step 4: Season & Add ‘Nduja
Now, it’s time to season your sauce! Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, and dried thyme to taste. Add the star ingredient, ‘Nduja, and continue to cook for about 1 minute, stirring continuously until it fully melts and integrates into the mixture. The sauce will start to gain its defined creamy and spicy character, a true highlight of this Linguine with Creamy ‘Nduja Tomato Sauce.

Step 5: Combine Sauce
Pour in the fresh lemon juice and add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, mixing well. Gradually pour in ½ cup of the reserved pasta water while stirring to create a smooth and cohesive sauce. This addition helps deglaze the pan and incorporates all those flavors beautifully into the Linguine with Creamy ‘Nduja Tomato Sauce.

Step 6: Finish Sauce
Pour in the cream, stirring as you bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Watch for bubbles, but do not allow it to boil vigorously. After simmering for about 2-3 minutes, stir in the grated Parmesan until it melts completely, resulting in a rich and silky sauce that envelops the pasta perfectly.

Step 7: Toss Pasta
Add the drained linguine to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy ‘Nduja sauce to fully coat each strand. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more of the reserved pasta water, achieving your desired consistency. Sprinkle in fresh black pepper to taste, elevating the flavor of your Linguine with Creamy ‘Nduja Tomato Sauce just before serving.

Step 8: Serve
Transfer your luscious Linguine with Creamy ‘Nduja Tomato Sauce to plates or a serving dish. For the final touch, garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley, adding a hint of freshness and color. Serve immediately, ensuring everyone gets a taste of this comforting and delicious pasta dish!

What to Serve with Linguine with Creamy ‘Nduja Tomato Sauce

Elevate your dinner experience with delightful accompaniments that complement every bite of this rich and creamy dish.

Garlicky Breadsticks: These crunchy, chewy sticks enhance the meal with a burst of garlic flavor, perfect for dipping into the luscious sauce.
Caesar Salad: A fresh, crisp Caesar salad brings a tangy contrast to the creamy sauce, adding layers of flavor and texture to your plate.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as zucchini and bell peppers add color and nutrients while balancing the flavors of the pasta.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Pinot Grigio, with its bright acidity, works beautifully to cut through the creaminess of the sauce, refreshing your palate.
Parmesan Crisps: These savory bites offer a delightful crunch and an extra hit of umami, making them a fantastic finger food to accompany your pasta.
Herbed Quinoa: Consider a light herbed quinoa salad for added protein and a nutty texture, providing a wholesome and satisfying element alongside the dish.
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a scoop of lemon sorbet is wonderfully refreshing, cleansing your palate after the hearty richness of the pasta.
Sparkling Water with Lemon: Keep things light and bubbly with sparkling water infused with fresh lemon slices, enhancing your dining experience with a hint of zest.

Whichever pairings you choose, they will create a memorable meal that keeps everyone coming back for more!

Linguine with Creamy ‘Nduja Tomato Sauce Variations

Feel free to explore these tempting twists to make this delicious dish your own!

Vegetarian Delight: Replace ‘Nduja with smoked paprika and sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of flavor without meat. This creates a smoky depth that will satisfy any palate.
Creamy Vegan Option: Use coconut cream instead of dairy cream for a rich, plant-based version. Adding a sprinkle of nutritional yeast enhances that delicious umami flavor beautifully.
Extra Veggies: Mix in fresh spinach or zucchini to increase the nutritional value, adding color and freshness to the sauce. These vegetables not only boost health but also provide a lovely texture contrast.
Spicy Heat: For those who crave more spice, toss in some red pepper flakes while cooking the aromatics. This will add an extra kick that elevates the dish to a new level of excitement.
Zesty Twist: Add zest from a lemon along with the juice for an extra citrusy brightness. This little adjustment can lift the flavors, making the dish taste even fresher.
Cheesy Goodness: Substitute grated Parmesan with a blend of ricotta and mozzarella for a gooey, cheesy sauce. The combination creates a lovely melting texture that envelops each strand of pasta.
Rustic Touch: Incorporate diced roasted red peppers for a slightly sweet and smoky flavor profile. This adds a delightful complexity that complements the creaminess of the sauce beautifully.
Side Pairings: Serve alongside a fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread to soak up every last drop of that luscious sauce. For a winning combination, consider offering a side of Brussels Sprouts Gratin to complement the creamy linguine perfectly.

Storage Tips for Linguine with Creamy ‘Nduja Tomato Sauce

Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving this creamy pasta dish out; store any leftovers within 2 hours to keep it safe and fresh.

Fridge: Store your Linguine with Creamy ‘Nduja Tomato Sauce in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Ensure it cools to room temperature before sealing to maximize freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sauce (without pasta) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water or milk to bring back that creamy consistency.

Expert Tips for Linguine with Creamy ‘Nduja Tomato Sauce

Perfect Pasta Cook Time: Cooking the linguine until al dente is crucial; it should have a slight bite to hold up against the creamy sauce.
Reserve That Water: Always reserve some pasta cooking water. It’s a game-changer for adjusting sauce consistency and ensuring it clings to your linguine beautifully.
Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re unsure about the heat of the ‘Nduja, start with half and add more to taste. This ensures a dish everyone can enjoy!
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Opt for fresh garlic and shallots for the best flavor. They add depth that powdered versions simply can’t match.
Cream Alternatives: If you’re out of cream, you can use Greek yogurt for a tangy and creamy twist, but add it off the heat to prevent curdling.
Beautiful Presentation: For a stunning finish, don’t forget the parsley garnish! It enhances both the aesthetic and freshness of your Linguine with Creamy ‘Nduja Tomato Sauce.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Linguine with Creamy ‘Nduja Tomato Sauce ahead of time is a game-changer for busy nights! You can chop the shallots, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes up to 3 days in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to save crucial prep time. Additionally, you can cook the linguine and toss it with a little olive oil to prevent sticking, refrigerating it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to savor this delicious dish, simply sauté your prepped aromatics, fold in the ‘Nduja, and finish with the cream. Heat everything together, adding a splash of pasta water for the perfect texture, and you’ll enjoy this comforting pasta with minimal effort!

Linguine with Creamy ‘Nduja Tomato Sauce Recipe FAQs

What kind of ‘Nduja should I use?
Absolutely! When selecting ‘Nduja, look for a high-quality brand that has a vibrant red color and a smooth texture. This indicates that it is well-blended with spices and has a good amount of fat, which aids in melting seamlessly into your sauce. If you’re looking for a milder option, feel free to choose a chorizo that has less heat.

How should I store leftovers of this dish?
Store your Linguine with Creamy ‘Nduja Tomato Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Ensure the dish cools to room temperature before sealing. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently over medium-low heat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water or milk to restore the creamy texture, and stir until heated through.

Can I freeze this creamy pasta dish?
Absolutely! To freeze, it’s best to do so without the pasta. Transfer the prepared sauce to a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. When reheating, add fresh pasta and a splash of the reserved pasta water to maintain the creamy consistency.

What if the sauce becomes too thick while cooking?
Very! If you notice your sauce is too thick, simply add a little of the reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time. Stir gently until you reach your desired consistency. The starchy water not only thins the sauce but also helps it cling beautifully to the linguine, ensuring every bite is flavorful.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
The classic recipe uses linguine, which contains gluten. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by swapping traditional pasta with a gluten-free linguine alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose, as gluten-free varieties can have different cook times.

Can I adjust the spiciness of the sauce?
Of course! If you’d like a milder dish, start with half the amount of ‘Nduja and taste as you go. You can always add more if you’re in the mood for heat! Alternatively, consider using smoked paprika for a similar flavor profile without the spice, which allows everyone at the table to savor the dish.