Casarecce with Chicken, Lemon and Sage

Casarecce with Chicken, Lemon and Sage Recipe from Italy

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Casarecce with Chicken, Lemon, and Sage is a delicious and comforting pasta dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of tender chicken, fragrant sage, and zesty lemon creates a flavorful and satisfying meal that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

Casarecce is a type of pasta that originated in Sicily, Italy. The name "casarecce" translates to "homemade" in Italian, and the pasta is known for its twisted shape and ridged texture, which helps it hold onto sauces and flavors. This recipe combines traditional Italian ingredients with a modern twist, making it a unique and delicious dish.

Ingredients

200 g of casarecce pasta
300 g of cooked chicken
3 fresh sage leaves
1 small lemon
0.5 chicken stock cube
250 ml of boiling water
a large knob of butter
1 tsp of flour
2 tbsp of crème fraîche

How to prepare

Cook the pasta in plenty of boiling, salted water according to the instructions on the packet.
Drain the pasta.
The cooking time of the pasta should coincide with the preparation of the sauce.
Tear the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Chop the sage.
Remove the zest from half of the lemon and finely chop it.
Dissolve the stock cube in the boiling water and stir in 1 tbsp of lemon juice, the chopped zest, and sage.
Melt the butter in a medium-sized pan and stir in the flour to create a smooth paste.
Gradually add the stock to the pan, stirring constantly to create a thick, creamy sauce.
Simmer the sauce for 5 minutes, then stir in the crème fraîche.
Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as desired, then add the chicken.
Stir the sauce into the drained pasta and serve with a lemon wedge and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives.

Variations

Substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
Add in sun-dried tomatoes or olives for extra flavor.
Use different herbs, such as thyme or rosemary, for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.

- Use fresh sage for the best flavor, as dried sage can be overpowering.

- Adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest to suit your taste preferences.

- Feel free to add in additional vegetables, such as peas or spinach, for extra color and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Casarecce with Chicken, Lemon, and Sage with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Pair it with a glass of white wine for a perfect dining experience.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente.

- Make a roux with butter and flour to thicken the sauce.

- Simmer the sauce to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian option.

- Substitute Greek yogurt for crème fraîche for a lighter sauce.

- Use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne or spaghetti.

Make Ahead Tips

Cook the pasta and chicken ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to use.

- Prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. - Serve the pasta in individual bowls for a restaurant-style presentation. - Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the Casarecce with Chicken, Lemon, and Sage with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

- Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- Calories per serving: 450

Carbohydrates

- Pasta: 200g

- Flour: 1 tsp

- Lemon: 1 small

- Chicken stock cube: 0.5

- Crème fraîche: 2 tbsp

Fats

- Butter: large knob

- Crème fraîche: 2 tbsp

Proteins

- Cooked chicken: 300g

Vitamins and minerals

Sage leaves: 3

- Lemon: 1 small

Alergens

Contains gluten and dairy

Summary

This dish is a balanced meal that provides a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It also contains vitamins and minerals from the fresh sage and lemon, making it a nutritious and delicious option for dinner.

Summary

Casarecce with Chicken, Lemon, and Sage is a delicious and comforting pasta dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. With its flavorful combination of tender chicken, fragrant sage, and zesty lemon, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your household. Enjoy this dish with a glass of wine and good company for a memorable dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something special. It was a warm summer day and I was wandering through the bustling streets of a quaint little village in Italy. The scent of fresh herbs and spices wafted through the air, drawing me into a charming little trattoria tucked away on a cobblestone alleyway.

As I entered the cozy restaurant, I was greeted by the friendly chatter of locals and the tantalizing aroma of simmering sauces and roasting meats. I found a seat at a small table near the open kitchen, where I could watch the skilled chefs at work.

I ordered a glass of crisp white wine and perused the menu, my eyes lighting up when I came across the description of the Casarecce with Chicken, Lemon, and Sage. It sounded like the perfect combination of flavors - creamy, tangy, and aromatic. I couldn't wait to try it.

As I waited for my meal, I struck up a conversation with the chef, a jovial man with a twinkle in his eye. He told me that the recipe for the dish had been passed down through generations in his family, each cook adding their own unique touch to the dish.

I watched intently as he prepared the dish, carefully sautéing the chicken in butter and garlic until it was golden brown and tender. He added a splash of white wine and a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice, allowing the flavors to meld together in a harmonious dance.

Next, he tossed in a handful of fragrant sage leaves, their earthy aroma filling the kitchen. Finally, he stirred in a dollop of rich cream and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, creating a luscious sauce that coated the casarecce pasta like a velvety blanket.

I eagerly dug into my plate of Casarecce with Chicken, Lemon, and Sage, savoring each bite as if it were the most exquisite meal I had ever tasted. The flavors were bright and vibrant, with the citrusy tang of the lemon cutting through the richness of the cream and cheese.

I knew then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself. I begged the chef for the recipe, promising to guard it with my life and pass it down to future generations in my own family.

He smiled indulgently and agreed to teach me the secrets of his family's treasured recipe. We spent the rest of the afternoon in the kitchen, chopping, sautéing, and stirring until we had created a perfect replica of the Casarecce with Chicken, Lemon, and Sage.

As I took my first bite of the dish that I had helped to create, I felt a deep sense of satisfaction and pride. The flavors transported me back to that charming little trattoria in Italy, where I had first fallen in love with this exquisite dish.

Since that day, I have made the Casarecce with Chicken, Lemon, and Sage countless times, each batch more delicious than the last. I have added my own touches to the recipe, experimenting with different herbs and spices to create a version that is uniquely my own.

I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all raved about its incredible flavor and asked for seconds. I love nothing more than to gather my loved ones around the table and serve them a steaming bowl of Casarecce with Chicken, Lemon, and Sage, watching as their faces light up with delight.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart, as it reminds me of that magical day in Italy when I discovered the joy of cooking and the power of sharing a delicious meal with those I love. I will treasure it always, passing it down through the generations so that others may experience the same sense of joy and connection that I have found in the simple act of preparing and enjoying a beautiful dish.