- Course: Main Course
- Skill Level: Easy
- Cost: Moderate
- Favorited: 23 Times
Recipe
Pasta con Salsa di Mascarpone e Zafferano
Because of L’Aquila’s proximity to the Navelli Valley, where precious saffron is harvested, there is a great flavor and color influence in several of their dishes. I have made this saffron-kissed sauce with mascarpone, but don’t be afraid to try it with ricotta or soft cheeses that you enjoy. I have also made this with artichokes in place of zucchini or with other pasta shapes. Be creative—and have fun!
Ingredients
- 1 pound rigatoncini pasta
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 zucchini, very thinly sliced
- Salt and fresh ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 pinch saffron
- ½ cup mascarpone cheese
- ½ cup grated fresh mozzarella
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmigiano cheese
Directions
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the zucchini and season with salt and pepper. Add the saffron. Cook, stirring frequently, for 3 to 4 minutes. Lower the heat and stir in the mascarpone, fresh mozzarella, and grated cheese.
Using a large pot, cook the pasta according to package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta, but reserve about ¼ cup of the pasta water. Add the mascarpone mixture, along with the remaining butter, and toss to combine. Add the reserved pasta water slowly, as needed, to make the sauce a bit creamier.
Serve immediately.
© 2010 Maria Filice
Note from Cookstr's Editors
Nutritional information includes 1/8 teaspoon of added salt per serving.






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