Discover a lesser-known gem from Southern Italy: a mouth-watering combination of marble-sized meatballs and orecchiette pasta. A dish that captures the essence of traditional red sauce meatballs but with a unique twist that’ll leave your taste buds wanting more.
Travel with us to the heart of Italy, where every dish tells a story. Today’s tale comes from Abruzzo, a picturesque mountainous region that has given us a version of spaghetti and meatballs unlike any other. Instead of the large meatballs familiar to many, imagine delicate, bite-sized meatballs paired with orecchiette, a pasta shaped like “little ears.” Each spoonful promises a burst of flavor, reminiscent of a hearty stew, making it perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Ingredients:
- Mini meatballs (quantity as desired)
- 1 pound dried orecchiette
- Tomato sauce
- 1 onion
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 tablespoons butter
- Grated cheese (for garnish)
- Kosher salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
Directions:
- Prepare the Meatballs: Begin by partially cooking the meatballs in boiling water. Ensure they remain slightly pink in the center. Transfer them to a baking sheet lined with paper towels or a wire rack. Note: You may have extra meatballs, which you can freeze or refrigerate for later use.
- Sauce Preparation: In your sauce, remove and discard the onion and bay leaf. Submerge the meatballs in the sauce and let them simmer on medium-low heat. Stir occasionally for about 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of heavily salted water to boil. Add the orecchiette and cook as per the package’s instructions until al dente. Before draining, reserve a cup of the pasta water.
- Combine and Serve: Introduce the pasta to the meatball-infused sauce. Add butter and stir. If the mixture appears too dry, add the reserved pasta water gradually. Cook for an additional 1-3 minutes on medium heat. Garnish with more grated cheese before serving.
Notes & Conclusion:
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the meatballs a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Alternatively, you can simmer the meatballs in the sauce and refrigerate them together for up to a day.
- Storage: The dish can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, the harmonious blend of flavors, and the warmth it brings to the table. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience. If you’ve enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and embark on this culinary journey together.