The Key Ingredients: Tomatoes, Smoked Scamorza, and Basil

Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh and Flavorful

The cherry tomatoes are the star of the sauce in Pasta alla Sorrentina. Their natural sweetness and juiciness provide a beautiful base for the sauce. When cooked down, they create a rich, tangy tomato sauce that forms the heart of this dish. Halving the tomatoes ensures that they break down nicely, releasing their juices and becoming tender, which is key to creating that perfect, flavorful sauce.

The simplicity of the tomatoes is what makes this sauce so special. With a touch of olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper, the tomatoes come alive and shine in the dish, showcasing the importance of using ripe, high-quality produce.

Smoked Scamorza Cheese: Creamy and Savory

Smoked scamorza cheese is a key element in Pasta alla Sorrentina, giving the dish its rich, creamy texture and deep, smoky flavor. Scamorza is an Italian cheese that is similar to mozzarella but firmer and drier. The smoked variety adds an extra layer of complexity, with its slightly pungent aroma and earthy, smoky taste that pairs perfectly with the fresh, tangy tomatoes.

As the cheese melts into the warm sauce, it creates a creamy, luscious coating that clings to the pasta, providing a satisfying contrast to the brightness of the tomatoes. The cheese not only adds richness but also contributes to the overall savory flavor profile of the dish.

Basil: Fresh and Aromatic

Fresh basil leaves are torn and added to the sauce at the end of cooking, releasing their aromatic oils and bright, peppery flavor. The addition of basil is a hallmark of Italian cooking, and in Pasta alla Sorrentina, it balances out the richness of the cheese and the acidity of the tomatoes. The fresh herb adds depth and a pop of color, making the dish even more inviting.

Making Pasta alla Sorrentina: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by adding a splash of olive oil to a pan over medium heat. Sauté sliced garlic in the olive oil, cooking gently until soft, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it can become bitter. Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pan and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to break down and release their juices. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

This simple yet flavorful tomato sauce is the perfect base for the dish, with the sweetness of the tomatoes and the aromatic essence of garlic providing a delicious backdrop for the cheese and basil.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the paccheri pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside. Be sure to reserve some of the pasta water, as it can be used later to help combine the sauce and pasta.

Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Once the tomato sauce is ready, add the cubed smoked scamorza cheese and torn basil leaves to the pan. Stir gently to melt the cheese into the sauce, creating a creamy, flavorful coating. Add the cooked paccheri pasta to the pan and toss gently to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and help it coat the pasta better.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Serve the Pasta alla Sorrentina immediately, garnished with additional fresh basil if desired. The dish is best enjoyed warm, with the cheese still gooey and the sauce rich and creamy.

Serving Suggestions

Pasta alla Sorrentina is a complete dish on its own, but it can be paired with a variety of sides to round out the meal:

• Garlic Bread: Serve with a side of warm garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce, creating a satisfying and hearty meal.

• Fresh Salad: A light, fresh salad with mixed greens, arugula, and a simple balsamic vinaigrette would complement the richness of the pasta and add a refreshing contrast.

• Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers, would add a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweet and savory pasta.

Nutritional Breakdown and Health Considerations

Pasta alla Sorrentina offers a balance of macronutrients, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. Each serving contains approximately 350 calories, with 18 grams of fat, 39 grams of carbohydrates, and 12 grams of protein. The dish also provides a good amount of calcium from the cheese and a modest amount of fiber, thanks to the tomatoes and basil.

While the dish is rich in cheese and butter, it can still be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. If you want to make the dish lighter, you could use part-skim mozzarella or reduce the amount of cheese used.

Why Pasta alla Sorrentina is Perfect for Any Occasion

Pasta alla Sorrentina is a simple, comforting, and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed at any time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want a quick, satisfying meal, or for special occasions where you want to impress guests with an authentic Italian dish. The rich combination of tomatoes, cheese, and basil is universally loved, making it a crowd-pleaser that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

This dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, from the creamy cheese to the juicy tomatoes, and is a great way to enjoy classic Italian comfort food in your own kitchen.

Conclusion: A Simple and Flavorful Italian Classic

Pasta alla Sorrentina is a dish that encapsulates the essence of Italian comfort food. With its tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, creamy cheese, and fragrant basil, it offers a satisfying meal that is both hearty and delicious. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or serving it to guests, this dish will transport you to the heart of Italy with every bite. It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for any occasion, making it a must-try for anyone who loves classic Italian cooking.