Yield: 8 Servings
The combination of all flavors in this one simple dish is spectacular! You need to give this recipe a try, I’m telling you! Definitely a must-try!
Ingredients:
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
1 tsp smoked Spanish paprika (optional)
Zest of one whole lemon, finely grated
1 lb. box of Barilla Mezzi Rigatoni or other small pasta shapes (like penne or large shells)
1 yellow onion, diced
2 large garlic cloves, minced
1 lb. fresh Mexican chorizo, removed from casings (you can also
substitute fresh turkey or chicken, chorizo for a lighter option)
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 c grated cotija cheese
2 red bell peppers, diced
3 c heavy cream
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1/2 bunch cilantro, finely minced + more for garnish
Directions:
1. Place a large pot with 1 gallon of water on the stove and turn the heat to high. Allow the water to boil. Add 1 1/2 tbsp of salt.
2. Place a large skillet on the stove and turn the heat to medium.
3. Add oil and allow it to become hot.
4. Add the onions, then sauté for about 2 minutes or until soft.
5. Add the chorizo, then cook for about 5 minutes or until crumbly and brown.
6. Add the garlic, chipotle peppers, red bell pepper, heavy cream, 1/2 tsp kosher salt, paprika, tomato paste, and lemon zest. Stir and cook for a few minutes. Allow the mixture to boil.
7. Reduce the heat to low, then simmer the mixture for about 3 to 5 minutes or until it reduces its volume and becomes thick. Make sure to stir from time to time. Remove the skillet from the stove.
8. In the pot with the boiling water, add the pasta and refer to the directions on the package on how long you should cook it until al dente.
9. Drain the pasta and set aside about 1 cup of the pasta water.
10. Add the al dente pasta into the skillet, then toss until well coated with the delicious sauce. Add pasta water if needed.
11. Put the skillet back on the stove, then add cilantro and stir until well mixed. Simmer for about 2 minutes.
12. Remove the skillet from the stove, then add cotija cheese and stir until well blended. Add more salt and pepper if needed.
13. Sprinkle cilantro on top to garnish.
14. Serve and enjoy!
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