Stuff the Fagottini:
Place a spoonful of the ricotta and salami mixture in the center of each pasta square or circle. Fold the edges of the pasta towards the center, creating little bundles or pouches. Pinch the edges together to seal the filling inside. If necessary, use a bit of beaten egg to help seal the edges and ensure they don’t open while cooking.
Cook the Fagottini:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully drop the stuffed pasta bundles into the boiling water. Cook for about 3–4 minutes, or until the fagottini rise to the surface, indicating they are ready. Remove them with a slotted spoon and set them aside on a plate.
Sauté in Olive Oil:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. If desired, sauté a bit of garlic for extra flavor. Add the cooked fagottini to the skillet and gently sauté them for 2–3 minutes, allowing them to lightly brown and develop a crispy texture on the outside.
Serve and Garnish:
Serve the ricotta and salami fagottini warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. They make a wonderful starter, appetizer, or even a light meal on their own.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestions:
These fagottini are perfect on their own, but you can serve them with a simple side salad or a drizzle of rich tomato sauce for added flavor. A light pesto sauce or even a balsamic glaze can also complement the flavors nicely.
Storage Tips:
If you have leftovers, store the cooked fagottini in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, gently sauté them in a bit of olive oil to retain their crispy texture. Alternatively, you can freeze the uncooked bundles for up to a month. Just freeze them on a baking sheet in a single layer, then transfer them to a container or freezer bag for longer storage.
Make Ahead:
You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day before assembling the fagottini. If you want to assemble the bundles ahead of time, place them in the refrigerator and cook them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Variants:
Vegetarian Version:
For a vegetarian take on this dish, substitute the salami with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. You could also use a mix of different cheeses like mozzarella or goat cheese for a unique flavor.
Different Meats:
While salami is a great choice for its rich flavor, you can try using other types of cured meats such as prosciutto, ham, or pancetta. The saltiness and texture of these meats will bring a different yet equally satisfying taste to the dish.
Add More Herbs:
For a fragrant twist, experiment with different herbs in the ricotta mixture. Try adding fresh thyme, oregano, or even a bit of lemon zest for an added layer of freshness.
FAQ:
Can I use store-bought pasta for this recipe?
Yes! Fresh store-bought pasta works perfectly for this recipe, especially if you’re short on time. Just be sure the sheets are pliable and not too thick.
Can I prepare these fagottini in advance?
Absolutely! You can make and assemble the fagottini ahead of time. Simply store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to cook them. If freezing, cook them straight from the freezer to maintain their shape and texture.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, gluten-free pasta sheets are available at many grocery stores, and they can be used in place of regular pasta. Make sure to check the texture and cooking time since gluten-free pasta can vary in how it holds up during cooking.
How can I make the ricotta and salami filling more flavorful?
If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can add some grated garlic or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes for a slight kick. Adding a spoonful of fresh ricotta or a drizzle of truffle oil also enhances the richness of the filling.
How do I prevent the fagottini from opening during cooking?
To ensure that the fagottini stays sealed, make sure to press the edges tightly together. Using a bit of beaten egg as a glue can help hold them together, especially if you’re working with fresh pasta sheets that may be more delicate.
Conclusion: Ricotta and salami fagottini are a simple yet indulgent starter that will impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds. This easy-to-follow recipe blends creamy ricotta with the savory flavor of salami, creating a dish that’s soft, tender, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re hosting a special event or simply treating yourself to a flavorful appetizer, these little pasta bundles are a perfect choice. So stop searching for complicated dishes and give these tasty fagottini a try—the results will be nothing short of extraordinary!
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