Baked pasta with Livornese-style bordatino

If you’re a fan of Italian cuisine, then you’re in for a treat! In this article, we’ll explore the flavors of Livornese-style Bordatino and how it can elevate a simple baked pasta dish. With its rich history and traditional ingredients, this dish is sure to transport your taste buds to the sun-soaked shores of Livorno, Italy.

Livornese-style Bordatino is a traditional Tuscan dish that originated in the port city of Livorno. It is a hearty soup-like stew made with beans, vegetables, and often served with crusty bread. However, in this interpretation, we will be using the flavors of Bordatino to enhance a baked pasta dish.

To start, let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish: 500 grams of your favorite pasta (such as penne or rigatoni), 1 can of cannellini beans (rinsed and drained), 1 onion (finely chopped), 2 cloves of garlic (minced), 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 1 tablespoon of tomato paste, 1 cup of vegetable broth, 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, a handful of fresh parsley (chopped), salt, and pepper to taste.

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it reaches al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing them until they turn translucent and fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste, allowing it to coat the onions and garlic, and cook for an additional minute.

Next, add the cannellini beans to the skillet, along with the vegetable broth. Stir well, allowing the flavors to meld together. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, until the liquid reduces slightly.

Once the broth has reduced, combine the cooked pasta with the beans in an oven-safe casserole dish. Make sure the pasta is evenly distributed and coated with the flavorful sauce. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top, ensuring it covers the entire dish.

Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese turns golden and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Once the baked pasta is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve it with a side of crusty bread for an authentic Italian experience.

The combination of the creamy cannellini beans, savory tomato paste, and nutty Parmesan cheese creates a symphony of flavors in this baked pasta dish. The Livornese-style Bordatino brings a touch of Tuscan warmth and richness to a classic comfort food.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a delicious homemade meal, this baked pasta with Livornese-style Bordatino is sure to impress. It’s a delightful way to explore the flavors of Italy and infuse your kitchen with the aromas of the Mediterranean. Buon appetito!