Risoni with tomato sauce and smoked mackerel

Risoni Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Smoked Mackerel

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Risoni, these delicate pasta that mimic the shape of rice or barley, are a versatile ingredient that can transform any meal into a culinary feast. Combined with a flavorful tomato sauce and smoked mackerel, this pasta becomes a savory and comforting dish, perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

The history of risoni pasta is fascinating, with each variety having deep roots in culinary traditions. Although risoni is not as well-known as other types of pasta, their popularity has grown in recent years due to their unique texture and ability to absorb the flavors of sauces.

Ingredients:

For the sauce:
- 2 fillets of smoked mackerel
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 1 medium onion
- 4-5 large tomatoes (fresh)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of raw sugar
- A few fresh basil leaves
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano

For serving:
- Smoked salmon fillets
- Sun-dried tomatoes in oil
- Mozzarella (chunks)
- 150 g risoni pasta Barilla

Instructions:

1. Prepare the ingredients:
Start by peeling the onion and garlic. Finely chop the onion and crush the garlic cloves. These ingredients are essential for giving flavor to your sauce.

2. Sauté the onion:
In a large skillet, add the 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes translucent and slightly golden. This is a crucial step, as caramelizing the onion will add depth of flavor to the sauce.

3. Add the garlic:
Once the onion is ready, add the crushed garlic and continue cooking for 1 minute. The garlic will release its aromatic oils, enriching the sauce.

4. Prepare the tomato sauce:
Peel the tomatoes (you can blanch them to remove the skin easier) and grate them using a large grater. Add the grated tomatoes to the skillet, mixing well. Let the sauce simmer over medium heat for 7-10 minutes, until it starts to thicken.

5. Season the sauce:
Add salt, pepper, raw sugar, oregano, and chopped fresh basil. Mix well and let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes, for the flavors to meld perfectly.

6. Add the mackerel:
Break the smoked mackerel fillets into small pieces, removing the skin. Incorporate the mackerel into the sauce and gently stir to avoid breaking the fish.

7. Cook the risoni pasta:
In a separate pot, boil plenty of salted water. Add the risoni pasta and cook according to the package instructions, generally for about 10 minutes. Make sure the pasta remains al dente for a pleasant texture.

8. Final combination:
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well and add it to the skillet over the tomato sauce and mackerel. Gently mix and let everything simmer together for 2-3 minutes, so the pasta absorbs the flavors of the sauce.

9. Serving:
In deep plates, place a generous portion of risoni pasta with tomato sauce and smoked mackerel. Garnish with a few small fillets of smoked salmon, sun-dried tomatoes in oil, and chunks of mozzarella. These ingredients bring a fresh note and a contrast of textures that enrich every bite.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the pasta warm, alongside a fresh green salad and a bottle of dry white wine, which will perfectly complement the flavors of the dish.

Helpful tips:
- For a richer sauce: you can add a little white wine before adding the tomatoes. This will add a tangy note and intensify the flavors.
- Variations: Substitute the mackerel with other types of smoked fish, such as herring or tuna, to experiment with different tastes.
- Nutrition: This dish is rich in protein due to the fish and pasta, while the tomatoes provide essential antioxidants. A serving contains approximately 400 calories, depending on the amount of oil and cheese used.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole grain pasta? Yes, you can use whole grain risoni pasta for a healthier option.
- How can I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in a double boiler or oven to prevent drying out.

Risoni with tomato sauce and smoked mackerel is a simple and quick recipe, yet full of flavor, that will bring joy to your tables. Don't forget to share this recipe with your loved ones and savor every bite!