If you’re looking for a dish that embodies the heart of Italian cuisine, Paccheri Alla Vittorio is a must-try. This traditional recipe hails from southern Italy, where simple ingredients shine through bold, comforting flavors. It’s a celebration of fresh, high-quality produce and rich, savory sauces that come together in perfect harmony.
What makes this dish so special is its use of paccheri pasta—large, tube-shaped noodles that are perfect for holding onto every bit of the luscious sauce. Legend has it that paccheri was originally created to smuggle garlic across borders, adding a touch of intrigue to its history. Today, it’s a beloved staple in Italian kitchens.
Ingredients
To prepare Paccheri Alla Vittorio, we will gather a blend of fresh ingredients and pantry staples to highlight the simple yet flavorful essence of Italian cuisine. Below, you will find specific ingredient lists categorized for the sauce, the pasta, and Optional Garnishes to ensure the dish turns out perfectly.
For The Sauce
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) San Marzano tomatoes, crushed (or freshly peeled tomatoes)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Handful fresh basil leaves, torn by hand for a burst of freshness
For The Pasta
- 14 oz paccheri pasta, uncooked
- 2 teaspoons salt, for the pasta water
- Water, enough to cook the pasta generously
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, for serving
- Additional fresh basil leaves, for presentation
- Extra virgin olive oil, drizzled over the plated dish for enhanced flavor
Chef’s Tip: High-quality olive oil and authentic San Marzano tomatoes make all the difference in capturing the true flavors of this Southern Italian classic. Always use fresh ingredients for the best results.
Tools And Equipment
To create an authentic Paccheri Alla Vittorio, having the right tools and equipment ensures ease and precision in preparation. Below is a detailed list of essential kitchen tools that will help us achieve the perfect dish.
Essential Tools List:
- Large Pot: For boiling the paccheri pasta. Ensure the size is sufficient to allow the pasta to cook evenly without sticking.
- Colander: To drain the cooked pasta effectively while retaining a small amount of pasta water for the sauce.
- Deep Skillet or Sauté Pan: Necessary for preparing the sauce and combining it with the pasta. A pan with high sides works best to contain the ingredients.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spoon: Ideal for stirring the sauce without scratching the pan’s surface.
- Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping garlic, onion, and basil with precision.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure olive oil, salt, and other ingredients accurately.
- Grater: Essential for freshly grating Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese as an optional garnish.
Recommended Equipment Table:
Here’s a quick overview of the tools with their purpose.
| Tool Name | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Pot | Boiling paccheri pasta evenly. |
| Colander | Draining pasta and preserving pasta water. |
| Deep Skillet or Pan | Cooking sauce and combining it with pasta. |
| Wooden or Silicone Spoon | Gentle stirring to preserve texture. |
| Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board | Dicing garlic, onion, and herbs with precision. |
| Measuring Tools | Ensuring accurate ingredient ratios. |
| Grater | Grating fresh Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. |
Pro Tip for Equipment:
Use a heavy-bottomed skillet to prevent scorching the sauce during cooking. A proper skillet helps distribute heat evenly and locks in the flavor. Additionally, a fine microplane grater works best for creating feather-light cheese shreds that melt uniformly over the dish.
Having these tools ensures that we streamline the preparation process and capture the authentic taste of Paccheri Alla Vittorio.
Directions
Follow these step-by-step Directions to achieve authentic Paccheri Alla Vittorio, ensuring each element of the dish is prepared with care and precision.
Prep
- Boil water for the pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt per quart of water.
- Prepare the sauce ingredients: Dice 1 medium onion finely and mince 3 cloves of garlic. Measure out 3 cups of San Marzano tomatoes and hand-crush them if whole. Pick and rinse fresh basil leaves.
- Set up garnishes: Grate Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese using a fine microplane and have extra basil leaves ready for garnish.
Cook
- Heat a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. Add 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil and let it warm but avoid smoking.
- Add minced garlic and diced onion to the pan. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant, stirring with a wooden spoon to prevent burning.
- Incorporate the San Marzano tomatoes. Simmer for 15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, stirring occasionally. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Add a few basil leaves and remove from heat.
- In the boiling water, add the paccheri pasta. Cook until al dente according to the package instructions, generally 12-14 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta in a colander.
Assemble
- Transfer the cooked paccheri directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly, incorporating a splash of reserved pasta water if necessary to adjust the sauce consistency.
- Plate the pasta, ensuring an even distribution of sauce. Sprinkle generously with Parmigiano-Reggiano and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
- Serve immediately while hot to capture the vibrant flavors of the dish.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To simplify your preparation of Paccheri Alla Vittorio, certain elements can be made ahead of time without compromising the dish’s signature flavor and texture. Follow these steps to streamline the cooking process while maintaining its authentic Italian essence.
Preparing the Sauce
The San Marzano tomato sauce used in Paccheri Alla Vittorio thrives when its flavors meld over time. To make the sauce in advance:
- Cook the sauce as instructed in the recipe, ensuring you sauté the garlic and onion properly to deepen the flavor.
- Allow the sauce to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer the sauce to an airtight container or glass jar.
- Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage—up to 3 months.
When ready to use, reheat the sauce on low heat while stirring occasionally to restore its consistency. Add a small splash of water or olive oil if it has thickened too much during storage.
Preparing the Pasta
While the pasta is best cooked fresh, we can save some time by pre-boiling the paccheri partially. Follow these guidelines:
- Boil the pasta for half the recommended cooking time (usually about 4-5 minutes).
- Drain the pasta and toss it lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Spread the paccheri in a single layer on a baking sheet and let it cool completely.
- Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
When you’re ready to assemble the dish, finish cooking the pasta in the sauce, allowing it to absorb the flavors fully while it reaches its al dente texture.
Chopping Ingredients
Prepping fresh components like garlic, onion, and basil ahead of time can save valuable minutes:
- Mince the garlic, finely chop the onion, and tear the basil leaves by hand.
- Store each in separate airtight containers with a damp paper towel layered on top. The damp paper towel helps retain their freshness.
- Keep these containers in the refrigerator, but ensure they are used within 1-2 days to maintain their vibrant flavors.
Suggested Storage Timelines at a Glance
| Component | Storage Method | How Long to Store |
|---|---|---|
| Tomato Sauce | Refrigerated or Frozen | 3 days (fridge) / 3 months (freezer) |
| Partially Cooked Paccheri | Refrigerated in Airtight Container | Up to 24 hours |
| Chopped Garlic/Onion/Basil | Refrigerated in Airtight Containers | 1-2 days |
By organizing these elements ahead of time, we can recreate the vibrant flavors of Paccheri Alla Vittorio without the stress of last-minute preparation.
Serving Suggestions
Serving Paccheri Alla Vittorio beautifully enhances the experience of this traditional Italian dish. Presentation and pairings are key to embracing its vibrant flavors, and we have a few tips to elevate your dining table.
Plate Presentation
- Use wide, shallow bowls to showcase the paccheri pasta and its robust sauce. The large pasta tubes glistening in a rich tomato sauce create a visually appealing dish.
- Garnish generously with fresh basil leaves and a light dusting of Parmigiano-Reggiano. For a professional touch, grate the cheese directly over the bowls just before serving.
Pro Tip: Consider drizzling a few drops of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the plated dish for added flavor and a subtle sheen.
Wine Pairing Recommendations
Pair Paccheri Alla Vittorio with wines that complement the sauce’s acidity and the pasta’s richness. Below is a curated suggestion:
| Wine Type | Details |
|---|---|
| White Wine | A crisp Vermentino or Soave balances the richness with refreshing citrus and floral notes. |
| Red Wine | Opt for a medium-bodied Chianti or Nero d’Avola to enhance the tomato sauce’s fruity tang. |
| Sparkling Wine | A Prosecco adds a celebratory fizz and light fruitiness to the meal. |
Pro Tip: Always serve your wine slightly chilled to enhance its freshness against warm pasta dishes.
Side Dish Ideas
Complement the meal with Italian-inspired sides. Choose options that match the simple yet bold flavors of Paccheri Alla Vittorio:
- A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon juice, olive oil, and shaved Parmigiano for a fresh, peppery bite.
- Warm crusty bread or garlic focaccia for scooping up the rich tomato sauce.
- Grilled or roasted vegetables, such as eggplant, zucchini, or bell peppers, for a rustic pairing.
Serving Temperature and Timing
Serve this dish immediately after plating to preserve the sauce’s vibrant flavors and the perfect al dente texture of the pasta. Keeping the dish warm ensures the cheese melts beautifully as it touches the hot paccheri.
By attending to these serving suggestions, we can transform the preparation of Paccheri Alla Vittorio into a moment of Italian culinary artistry.
Conclusion
Paccheri Alla Vittorio is more than just a dish—it’s a celebration of Southern Italy’s culinary heritage. By focusing on fresh, high-quality ingredients and simple techniques, we can create a meal that’s both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it on your own, this recipe brings a touch of Italian artistry to any table.
Let’s embrace the joy of cooking and take pride in every step, from preparing the sauce to garnishing the final plate. With Paccheri Alla Vittorio, we’re not just making pasta—we’re crafting an experience that’s rich in flavor, tradition, and love. Buon appetito!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Paccheri Alla Vittorio?
Paccheri Alla Vittorio is a traditional Italian dish made with paccheri pasta, a large tube-shaped noodle, paired with a rich tomato-based sauce featuring garlic, onion, San Marzano tomatoes, and fresh basil. It embodies the essence of Southern Italian cuisine with simple yet flavorful ingredients.
What makes paccheri pasta unique?
Paccheri pasta is known for its large, tube-like shape, perfect for capturing thick sauces. Its size and texture enhance the dining experience by delivering a hearty and flavorful bite every time.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The sauce can be prepared and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator or 3 months in the freezer. Reheat gently before tossing it with the pasta.
What are the key ingredients for Paccheri Alla Vittorio?
Key ingredients include paccheri pasta, extra virgin olive oil, garlic, onion, San Marzano tomatoes, fresh basil, and optional garnishes like Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. High-quality ingredients are essential for authentic flavor.
What equipment do I need to prepare the dish?
You’ll need a large pot, colander, deep skillet, wooden or silicone spoon, chef’s knife, cutting board, measuring tools, and a grater for Parmigiano-Reggiano. A heavy-bottomed skillet is recommended to prevent sauce scorching.
How can I customize Paccheri Alla Vittorio?
You can customize it with additional garnishes like chili flakes for spice, fresh herbs, or grated cheese. It also pairs beautifully with side dishes like arugula salad or grilled vegetables.
What is the best way to serve Paccheri Alla Vittorio?
Serve it in wide, shallow bowls, garnished with fresh basil and Parmigiano-Reggiano. Drizzle high-quality olive oil for extra flavor, and pair it with a crisp white wine, medium-bodied red, or sparkling Prosecco.
Can the pasta be pre-cooked for convenience?
Yes, the paccheri can be partially boiled and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just reheat in boiling water briefly before tossing with the sauce.
Why is San Marzano tomatoes recommended for the sauce?
San Marzano tomatoes are prized for their naturally sweet, rich flavor and low acidity, making them ideal for an authentic Italian tomato sauce. They enhance the dish’s taste significantly.
What wine pairs best with Paccheri Alla Vittorio?
A crisp Vermentino or Soave pairs beautifully as a white wine, while a medium-bodied Chianti or Nero d’Avola complements the dish as a red wine. Prosecco is a great sparkling option.