Best Easy Malloreddus alla Campidanese Recipe

Sardinian saffron-infused pasta with sausage ragù is a proud island tradition. This high protein mediterranean dish is a hearty, flavorful family meal with a distinctive golden hue.

Cook 60 min Difficulty NORMAL 540 kcal
#high protein #mediterranean
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • malloreddus (or gnocchetti sardi) pasta 12 oz
  • Italian sausage (mild, removed from casing) 12 oz
  • yellow onion 1 pieces
  • crushed tomatoes 2 cups
  • pecorino cheese (freshly grated) 1 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • saffron threads 0.25 tsp
  • extra-virgin olive oil 2 tbsp
  • garlic 2 cloves
  • dry white wine 0.33 cup
  • salt 1 tsp
  • black pepper 0.25 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 68 g 50%
Protein 22 g 16%
Fat 19 g 33%
Serving size 320g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Steep the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of hot water for 10 minutes; set aside.

  2. 2

    Add olive oil to a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the finely chopped onion until soft but not browned, about 8 minutes.

  3. 3

    Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and sauté until browned, about 6–8 minutes.

  4. 4

    Deglaze the pan with white wine, letting it reduce by half. Add crushed tomatoes, saffron water, salt, and black pepper. Simmer uncovered on low heat for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  5. 5

    Meanwhile, boil a large pot of salted water. Cook malloreddus pasta until al dente (taste and check 1–2 minutes before package directions), then drain.

  6. 6

    Toss pasta with the sausage ragù in the skillet, coating well. Increase heat briefly for 1–2 minutes to marry flavors without overcooking pasta.

  7. 7

    Serve hot, topping with freshly grated pecorino cheese at the table.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
Malloreddus pasta, distinguished by its saffron infusion, forms the heart of this Sardinian dish. Alongside the sausage ragù, the saffron lends a golden hue and delicate aroma that truly define the flavor and identity of Malloreddus alla Campidanese.
Q. What’s the most important cooking technique for great results?
Careful simmering of the sausage ragù over low heat is essential for deep flavor development, while briefly tossing the pasta with the sauce over medium heat helps integrate the flavors without losing the pasta's al dente texture.
Q. How do you prevent overcooked or mushy pasta?
Begin checking the pasta 1–2 minutes before the package’s suggested cooking time, tasting for perfect al dente firmness. Immediately drain and combine with the ragù off the direct heat to keep the texture toothsome.
Q. How many calories and how much protein does each serving contain?
Each serving provides approximately 540 kcal, 22 grams of protein, and a balanced distribution with about 50% carbs, 16% protein, and 33% fat—making it a hearty, satisfying meal.
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