Ingredients:

• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 (8-ounce) Spanish semi-cured chorizo (case removed, cut into 1/4-inch slices)
• 1/4 cup Spanish extra-virgin olive oil, divided
• 1 (24-ounce) can crushed tomatoes (or 24 ounces of fresh pulsed tomatoes)
• 1 teaspoon Spanish smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt, plus more for pasta water
• 1/2 pound penne (macaroni or spaghetti can also be used)
• 1/4 cup shaved Manchego cheese, for serving

Steps to Make:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Chop the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Slice the chorizo into thin 1/4-inch rounds. If you’re using fresh tomatoes, pulse them in a blender until you get a smooth consistency.
2. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne (or macaroni/spaghetti) to the water and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
3. Sauté the Vegetables and Chorizo:
   • While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and softened.
   • Add the garlic and continue sautéing for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Cook the Chorizo:
   • Add the sliced chorizo to the skillet with the onions, garlic, and peppers. Let it cook for 4-5 minutes, allowing the chorizo to release its oils and brown slightly.
5. Make the Sauce:
   • Once the chorizo is cooked through, stir in the crushed tomatoes (or pulsed fresh tomatoes). Add the Spanish smoked paprika and salt. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors meld together.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
   • Add the cooked penne pasta directly into the skillet with the tomato and chorizo sauce. Stir everything together, making sure the pasta is well coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
7. Serve and Garnish:
   • Once the pasta is mixed with the sauce, remove from heat. Divide the pasta into serving bowls and sprinkle generously with shaved Manchego cheese.

Prep Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Servings:

• Servings: 4 servings

Calories:

• Calories per serving: 550 kcal (Approximate)

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories: 550 kcal
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 60g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g
• Calcium: 80mg
• Iron: 3mg

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient choices and serving sizes.)

Explanation of the Recipe and Why It’s Timeless:

Chorizo and Tomato Penne with Manchego Cheese combines traditional Spanish ingredients in a pasta dish that has a perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors. The Spanish smoked paprika imparts a deep, smoky flavor to the sauce, which complements the chorizo, making every bite savory and delicious. The addition of red bell pepper and onion adds a subtle sweetness, which balances the richness of the chorizo.

The use of Manchego cheese ties the dish together by providing a rich, nutty finish, elevating the overall taste of the meal. Manchego, a famous cheese from the La Mancha region of Spain, brings an authentic Spanish touch to the dish, making it a timeless recipe for those who appreciate bold and comforting flavors.

This dish is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed by both home cooks and seasoned chefs alike. It’s versatile, too — you can easily adapt it by swapping out the penne for another pasta shape, or even adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition. The combination of ingredients used is one that spans generations in Spanish cuisine, ensuring the dish is as timeless as it is delicious.

FAQs:

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Yes! To make this dish vegetarian, you can substitute the chorizo with plant-based sausage or a combination of mushrooms and beans for a hearty texture.

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: While Manchego is traditional for this recipe, you can substitute it with other hard cheeses like Parmesan or Pecorino Romano for a similar sharp, nutty flavor.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a bit of water to loosen up the sauce if necessary.

Tips for Making:

1. Use High-Quality Chorizo: Spanish semi-cured chorizo is key to this dish. If you can find it, use the best quality chorizo you can, as its flavor will be a defining element in the dish.
2. Customize the Pasta: If you prefer a different type of pasta, feel free to substitute penne with spaghetti, macaroni, or any pasta shape you like. The key is to ensure the pasta is al dente.
3. Don’t Overcook the Chorizo: Chorizo should be browned and crispy, but not overcooked. Keep an eye on it while cooking to ensure it retains its juicy flavor.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftover pasta in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to the pan to help revive the sauce.
• Freezing: While pasta dishes can be frozen, this one might lose some of its texture due to the tomato sauce and cheese. If you choose to freeze, store the pasta and sauce separately for better results. Consume within 1-2 months for the best flavor.

Conclusion:

Chorizo and Tomato Penne with Manchego Cheese is a rich, comforting, and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Spanish cuisine to your table. The smoky chorizo and the sweet, tangy tomatoes come together in a marriage of flavors, while the creamy Manchego cheese adds an indulgent finish to each bite. Perfect for busy weeknights, special occasions, or any time you crave a dish that’s both filling and packed with character, this recipe is bound to become a new favorite in your rotation.

Its combination of simple ingredients and bold, satisfying flavors makes it timeless and beloved by anyone who appreciates good food. Whether you’re a fan of Spanish flavors or just looking for a hearty pasta dish, this recipe has everything you need to create a memorable meal. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and treat yourself to a taste of Spain with every bite!