Spicy Nduja Pasta – A Simple, Bold Italian Classic
If you love bold flavours and quick dinners, this Spicy Nduja Pasta will become your new favourite midweek meal. Originating from Calabria in Southern Italy, nduja is a soft, spicy, spreadable salami that brings depth and richness to even the simplest of dishes.
At Affetto Italiano, we stock authentic nduja that’s full of flavour — and perfect for this recipe. It pairs beautifully with garlic, tomatoes, and a sprinkling of parmesan. Best of all, it takes less than 30 minutes to make.
Ingredients (Serves 2):
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200g pasta (penne or rigatoni work best)
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1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
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1 clove garlic, finely chopped
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2 tbsp nduja (from Affetto Italiano)
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200g cherry tomatoes, halved
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley or basil (optional)
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Grated parmesan cheese, to serve
Instructions:
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Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to packet instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of the pasta water before draining.
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In a frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant (but not browned).
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Add the nduja and stir gently. It will melt into the oil and become the base of your sauce.
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Toss in the cherry tomatoes and cook for 5–7 minutes until they start to soften and release their juices.
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Add the drained pasta directly into the sauce. Stir everything together and loosen with a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.
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Season to taste, and finish with freshly grated parmesan and chopped herbs if desired.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with a green salad and crusty bread. A glass of chilled Italian rosé or light red pairs perfectly.
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