Pasta with liver in tomato sauce

Pasta with Chicken Liver in Tomato Sauce

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 2

Do you dream of a recipe that combines the rich flavors of chicken liver with a savory tomato sauce? Then you’ve come to the right place! This recipe for pasta with chicken liver in tomato sauce is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner. Whether you have a busy evening or want to impress a guest, this dish is the ideal choice.

Recipe History

Chicken liver has been an essential part of many cuisines throughout history, appreciated not only for its taste but also for its nutritional benefits. It is an excellent source of protein, vitamins (especially vitamin A and B12), and minerals. Combined with fresh tomato sauce, this recipe becomes not just a nourishing meal but also an explosion of flavors. The pasta perfectly complements this dish, providing the necessary texture to absorb the delicious sauce.

Necessary Ingredients

- 200 g pasta (ideally spirals or penne)
- 500 g chicken liver
- ½ yellow bell pepper
- 1 medium onion
- 1 large garlic clove
- 1 can peeled tomatoes (400 g)
- 1 tablespoon roasted pepper paste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon butter
- 2 tablespoons oil
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparing the Recipe

1. Preparing the liver: Start by soaking the chicken liver in cold water for 10 minutes. This will help remove impurities and enhance the flavor. After soaking, rinse it well under cold running water and let it drain in a colander.

2. Browning the liver: In a large skillet, melt a teaspoon of butter and add the chicken liver. Brown it on both sides for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes slightly golden. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Once the liver is done, remove it from the skillet and place it on a plate.

3. Preparing the vegetables: Peel and finely chop the onion. You can slice the yellow bell pepper into thin strips, and slice the garlic clove. In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of oil and heat it. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become slightly translucent. This step is essential for adding depth to the sauce.

4. Adding the tomatoes: Open the can of peeled tomatoes and chop them finely. Add the tomatoes to the skillet along with ½ cup of water and the roasted pepper paste. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes until it reduces and becomes more concentrated.

5. Finishing the dish: When the sauce is nearly ready, add the chicken liver back to the skillet along with the dried basil. Stir gently and let it simmer together for 1 minute so that the liver absorbs the sauce's flavors.

6. Cooking the pasta: In a separate pot, add salted water and bring it to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the pasta and let it cook according to the package instructions (8-10 minutes). When ready, drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the chicken liver sauce. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

7. Serving: Serve the pasta hot, sprinkled with chopped fresh parsley. This detail adds a touch of freshness and color to the dish.

Practical Tips

- Pasta: For an extra flavor boost, you can use whole grain or gluten-free pasta, depending on your dietary preferences.
- Liver: If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can marinate the liver in a bit of olive oil and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Variations: Instead of basil, you can try oregano or thyme, which pair wonderfully with the tomato sauce.
- Serving: This dish can be accompanied by a fresh green salad or a portion of grilled vegetables for an extra boost of vitamins and fiber.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use beef liver instead of chicken liver?
- Yes, you can substitute chicken liver with beef liver. The cooking time may be longer, so make sure it is well-cooked.

2. How can I reduce the calories in this recipe?
- You can use olive oil instead of butter and reduce the amount of oil added to the vegetables.

3. Can I freeze the leftovers?
- Yes, this recipe freezes well. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken liver is an excellent source of protein, with a high content of B vitamins, especially B12, which is essential for brain health. Tomatoes are rich in antioxidants, such as lycopene, which is beneficial for heart health. This recipe is also a good way to incorporate vegetables into your daily diet, providing essential vitamins and minerals.

Enjoy preparing this delicious recipe for pasta with chicken liver in tomato sauce! It’s not just a meal; it’s a true culinary experience that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.