Baked Vodka 'Nduja Rigatoni

Your next Sunday Supper

Happy Tuesday Everyone!

There’s something undeniably comforting about Sunday Dinner (It’s Tuesday and I’m already looking forward to the Weekend). Bringing family and friends together, home-cooked meals, and a sense of relaxation before the busy week ahead. Whether it’s a hearty roast, a stew, or a baked pasta dish. Sunday dinner has a way of making the weekend feel complete.

Growing up there was a baked mostaccioli dish my Mom would make for Sunday dinner that was my absolute favorite. Taking inspiration from a childhood favorite was so nostalgically rewarding when coming up with this dish.

This baked pasta uses one of my favorite sauces. A creamy spicy Carbone- like vodka sauce with spicy ‘nduja sausage and sweet italian sausage to balance out all of the flavors.

‘Nduja Sausage is a spicy, fermented spreadable pork sausage from the Calabria region of Italy. I found it at an Italian Supermarket, but you can often find it in supermarkets that have a fresh specialty cheese section where they keep the charcuterie items.

'Nduja Sausage

If you can’t source ‘Nduja you can always swap it with a bit of chorizo or do half sweet and half hot italian sausage!

A Chicago Vintage Shop and Restaurant/Bar Review

I am taking you away from all of the well known/main stream neighborhoods of Chicago with this one.

Over the weekend my best friend took me around Logan Square as a little Birthday outing. We stopped in at “Beyond Grandma’s House” Vintage Shop. I found some gorgeous ceramics and some vintage Corningware. The owners welcome you in the second you walk through the door and they hand select all of their pieces. If you are in the area and looking for some treasures make sure to check them out, they have something for just about everyone.

The next stop was Small Bar. A small neighborhood spot with a variety of beers and craft cocktails. I tried the Pegu Clubish which was a Gin based cocktail with notes of apricot, lemon, cava and honey (SOOOO good… I might have to try to recreate it). They also have partnered with Patty Please who are known for their extra lacey smash burgers. They are made on a small line so you see them being made right from your seat. The Pleaser was quite possibly the best tasting smash burger I have ever eaten. Honorable mention to the garlic cheese curds with jalapeno ranch.

Chicago is known for having hidden gems, this is one of them. They don’t take reservations and have limited seating, so make sure to get there early/before the dinner rush.

Okay back to the main reason you are reading this newsletter!

Baked Vodka ‘Nduja Rigatoni

Servings: 4

Prep Time: 10 Minutes

Cook Time: 45 Minutes

Ingredients

• 12 oz. Rigatoni/Penne/Paccheri