Pappardelle with smoked tenderloin

Delicious Pappardelle with Smoked Tenderloin Recipe: A Culinary Adventure Full of Flavor

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

I invite you to discover a savory recipe for pappardelle with smoked tenderloin, a perfect combination of flavors and textures that will transport you straight to the heart of Italy. This dish is perfect for a quick yet elegant dinner and is ideal for impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day.

Recipe History
Pappardelle is a type of traditional pasta with deep roots in European culinary culture. These wide, flat noodles were originally created to perfectly complement rich sauces, and today they are appreciated worldwide. The smoked tenderloin adds a distinctive note to this recipe, being a popular ingredient in meat dishes that offers an intense and profound flavor.

Ingredients
- 1 bag of mixed pappardelle (with egg + with spinach)
- 1 medium onion
- 1 bell pepper
- 2 large tomatoes
- 400g smoked tenderloin
- 50ml olive oil
- 2 green garlic stalks
- Fresh green basil (a few leaves)
- Grated Parmesan (for serving)
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Pasta
1. Boil the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add salt (about 1 tablespoon for 4 liters of water). When the water is boiling, add the pappardelle. Boil them according to the package instructions, about 6-7 minutes, until al dente. It is essential not to overcook them to avoid a soft and sticky texture.
2. Save the liquid: When the pasta is ready, drain it but keep about 100ml of the cooking water. This liquid will help create a creamy sauce.

Preparing the Sauce
3. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the peeled and finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
4. Add the tenderloin: Slice the smoked tenderloin into thin pieces and add it to the skillet, mixing well. Let it fry for 3-4 minutes until the meat starts to release its aromas.
5. Incorporate the vegetables: Add the diced bell pepper and chopped tomatoes. Mix well and cook for another 3 minutes so that the vegetables soften a bit but remain crunchy.

Assembling the Dish
6. Combine the pasta with the sauce: Add the drained pappardelle to the skillet along with the reserved 100ml of water. Mix everything carefully so that the pasta absorbs the flavors of the sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce becomes creamy.
7. Season: Add salt, pepper, and finely chopped fresh basil to taste. Mix well.

Serving
8. Prepare the plate: It is recommended to warm the plate before serving. Sprinkle grated Parmesan on the bottom of the plate, then add the pappardelle with smoked tenderloin. Finish with another layer of Parmesan on top and a few basil leaves for added freshness.
9. Enjoy: This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or fresh lemonade.

Tips and Practical Advice
- Do not rinse the pasta: If you boiled them in salted water and a little oil, there is no need to rinse. This will help the sauce stick better to the pasta.
- For a richer sauce: You can add cream or cream cheese when combining the pasta with the sauce. This will add a creamy texture and extra flavor.
- Variations: You can replace the smoked tenderloin with grilled chicken or turkey for a lighter option. You can also add seasonal vegetables, such as zucchini or another type of bell pepper, to diversify the recipe.

Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is an excellent source of protein from the smoked tenderloin and carbohydrates from the pasta, providing the energy needed for an active day. Tomatoes and bell peppers bring essential vitamins and antioxidants, improving overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use whole wheat pasta instead of mixed pappardelle? Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a healthy choice and can offer a slightly different but equally delicious taste.
- How can I store leftovers? If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep for 2-3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or in a skillet with a little oil to refresh the dish.

I encourage you to share your own experience with this smoked tenderloin pappardelle recipe. Whether it's a romantic dinner, a gathering with friends, or simply a family meal, this dish is sure to bring smiles to faces. Happy cooking!