Discover the harmonious blend of ziti pasta, tender pork, and delicate escarole in a creamy thyme sauce. This recipe combines the heartiness of pasta with the rich flavors of pork and the unique texture of escarole, coated in a luxurious thyme-infused cream sauce. It's a warming, comforting dish that's perfect for any occasion.
Escarole is a type of leafy green vegetable that might not be readily available in all supermarkets. It has a slightly bitter taste and a crunchy texture. If you can't find escarole, you can substitute it with other leafy greens such as spinach or kale. However, using escarole will give the dish a unique flavor that sets it apart.
Ziti Pasta with Pork and Escarole Ingredients
Pork tenderloin: This cut of pork is lean, tender, and full of flavor, making it ideal for this pasta dish.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Black pepper: Adds a hint of heat and depth to the dish.
Cooking oil: Used for frying the pork and cooking the escarole.
Escarole: Adds a slightly bitter taste and unique texture to the dish.
Shallot: Gives a mild, sweet onion flavor.
Chicken broth: Provides the base for the creamy sauce.
Dried thyme: Infuses the dish with its warm, aromatic flavor.
Grainy mustard: Adds a tangy heat that contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the sauce.
Heavy cream: Gives the sauce its rich, creamy texture.
Ziti: A tube-shaped pasta that does an excellent job of holding onto the creamy sauce.
One reader, Cilka Regan says:
This ziti pasta with pork and escarole in creamy thyme sauce recipe is a game-changer! The pork is tender, and the creamy thyme sauce adds a delightful flavor. The combination of escarole and ziti pasta is simply divine. This recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a comforting and satisfying meal.
Techniques Required
How to prepare pork tenderloin: Cut the pork into 1/2-inch slices and flatten them with the heel of your hand. Sprinkle the pork with 1/4 teaspoon each of the salt and pepper.
How to cook pork tenderloin: In a large frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil over moderate heat. Cook the pork, in two batches if necessary, until just barely done, about 1 minute per side. Remove the pork from the pan, let it sit for 5 minutes, and then cut into thin strips.
How to cook escarole: In the same pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of the oil over moderate heat. Add the escarole, shallot, 1/4 teaspoon of the salt, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon pepper and cook, stirring until the escarole wilts, about 1 minute.
How to make creamy thyme sauce: Add the broth and the thyme and simmer until the broth is reduced to 1/4 cup, about 3 minutes. Whisk in the mustard, cream, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon salt; bring just to a simmer.
How to cook ziti pasta: In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the ziti until just done, about 13 minutes.
How to toss ziti with sauce: Drain the ziti and toss with the prepared creamy thyme sauce and pork.
How To Make Ziti Pasta with Pork and Escarole in Creamy Thyme Sauce
Filling and delicious, this ziti pasta yields a savory meal loaded with tender, crispy pork, lightly bitter escarole, all tossed in a rich and herby sauce!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbpork tenderloin
- ¾tspsalt
- ½tspfresh ground black pepper
- 3tbspcooking oil
- ½lbescarole
- 1shallot,or 2 scallions including green tops
- ½cupchicken broth,canned, low sodium
- ½tspdried thyme
- 2tspgrainy mustard,or dijon mustard
- ½cupheavy cream
- ½lbziti
Instructions
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Cut the pork into ½-inch slices and flatten them with the heel of hand. Sprinkle the pork with ¼ teaspoon each of the salt and pepper.
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In a large frying pan, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil over moderate heat. Cook the pork, in two batches if necessary, for about 1 minute per side, until just barely done.
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Remove the pork from the pan, let it sit for 5 minutes, and then cut into thin strips.
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In the same pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of the oil over moderate heat. Add the escarole, shallot, ¼ teaspoon of the salt and the remaining ¼ teaspoon pepper and cook, stirring for about 1 minute, until the escarole wilts.
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Add the broth and the thyme and simmer for about 3 minutes, until the broth is reduced to ¼ cup. Whisk in the mustard, cream, and the remaining ¼ teaspoon of salt; bring just to a simmer.
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Add the pork and any accumulated juices to the sauce, and remove from the heat.
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In a large pot of boiling, salted water, cook the ziti for about 13 minutes, until just done. Drain and toss with the sauce.
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Serve warm, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 575.72kcal
- Fat: 26.90g
- Saturated Fat: 9.25g
- Trans Fat: 0.08g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 11.69g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.44g
- Carbohydrates: 49.43g
- Fiber: 4.28g
- Sugar: 4.01g
- Protein: 33.20g
- Cholesterol: 115.37mg
- Sodium: 583.25mg
- Calcium: 61.00mg
- Potassium: 804.62mg
- Iron: 2.46mg
- Vitamin A: 123.60µg
- Vitamin C: 3.08mg
Technique Tip for Making Ziti Pasta with Pork and Escarole
When preparing the pork tenderloin, it's important to cut the meat against the grain. This helps to break up the muscle fibers, making the meat more tender and easier to chew. Additionally, when flattening the pork slices with the heel of your hand, be sure to apply even pressure to ensure uniform thickness. This will help the pork to cook evenly and prevent overcooking. Lastly, when adding the ziti to the boiling water, stir it occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Ziti Pasta with Pork and Escarole
Prep ahead: Chop and marinate the pork and escarole the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
One-pot cooking: Use a large skillet to cook the pork, escarole, and sauce, and then toss the ziti in the same skillet to minimize clean-up.
Multi-task: While the ziti is boiling, prepare the creamy thyme sauce to make the most of your time in the kitchen.
Quick cooking: Opt for thinly sliced pork tenderloin to reduce the cooking time and ensure the meat cooks quickly and evenly.
Efficient slicing: Use a sharp knife to slice the pork thinly, making it easier to cook and reducing the overall cooking time.
Prep organization: Organize your ingredients and prep area before starting to cook to streamline the cooking process and save time.
Substitute Ingredients For Ziti Pasta with Pork and Escarole in Creamy Thyme Sauce Recipe
pork tenderloin - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast can be used as a lean and versatile substitute for pork tenderloin in this recipe. It will provide a similar texture and absorb the flavors of the creamy thyme sauce well.
escarole - Substitute with kale: Kale can be used as a substitute for escarole as it has a similar hearty texture and can hold up well in the creamy thyme sauce. It also adds a slightly earthy and robust flavor to the dish.
ziti - Substitute with penne: Penne can be used as a substitute for ziti as it has a similar tubular shape and will hold the creamy thyme sauce effectively. It provides a great texture and is readily available in most grocery stores.
Presenting Ziti Pasta with Pork and Escarole
Elevate the plating: As a Top Chef, the presentation of the dish is crucial. Use fine china and elegant plating techniques to showcase the ziti pasta with pork and escarole in creamy thyme sauce. The dish should be visually appealing and reflect the sophistication of a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Incorporate garnishes: Utilize fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish. Delicately place the garnishes to enhance the overall aesthetic and provide a hint of flavor complexity.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate. Ensure that the ziti pasta, pork, and escarole are arranged meticulously to create a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. Precision in plating demonstrates attention to detail and culinary expertise.
Highlight the creamy thyme sauce: Use a drizzle technique to elegantly showcase the creamy thyme sauce. The sauce should be carefully poured or drizzled around the dish, adding a luxurious touch and emphasizing the richness of the flavors.
Emphasize texture: Create contrast in textures by incorporating crispy pork strips as a garnish. The addition of crispy elements adds a delightful crunch to the dish, elevating the overall dining experience for the esteemed judges and guests.
Consider the overall composition: Ensure that the presentation reflects a sense of balance and harmony. The arrangement of the ziti pasta, pork, and escarole should be visually captivating and inviting, enticing the judges to savor every element of the dish.
Essential Tools for Making This Ziti Pasta Recipe
- Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Chef's knife: A versatile knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing.
- Frying pan: A shallow pan with a long handle, used for frying, searing, and sautéing.
- Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending and mixing ingredients.
- Large pot: A deep cooking vessel used for boiling, simmering, and cooking pasta or soups.
- Tongs: A utensil with two arms and a pivot used for gripping and lifting items.
- Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforated holes used for draining liquids from food.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Utensils used for measuring precise amounts of ingredients.
- Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle and a lid, used for making sauces and heating liquids.
- Grater: A kitchen tool used for grating cheese, vegetables, and other foods.
- Wooden spoon: A spoon made of wood, used for stirring and mixing ingredients.
How To Store / Freeze Ziti Pasta with Pork and Escarole
To store leftover ziti pasta with pork and escarole in creamy thyme sauce, allow the dish to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Seal the container tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating the stored pasta dish, add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to help loosen the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out. Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
To freeze the ziti pasta with pork and escarole in creamy thyme sauce, portion the cooled dish into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn. Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
Frozen ziti pasta with pork and escarole in creamy thyme sauce can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, transfer the frozen dish to the refrigerator and allow it to defrost overnight.
When reheating the frozen and thawed pasta dish, place it in a saucepan and add a small amount of chicken broth or heavy cream to help reconstitute the sauce. Heat the dish over medium-low heat, stirring gently, until it is heated through and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed, before serving.
How To Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover ziti pasta in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture in the pasta and prevents it from drying out.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the leftover pasta in a microwave-safe dish and add a splash of chicken broth or water to help keep the pasta moist. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap (leaving a small vent for steam to escape). Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until the pasta is heated to your liking.
If you prefer a crispy texture, you can reheat the pasta in a skillet. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the leftover pasta and toss it in the skillet for 3-5 minutes, or until it's heated through and slightly crispy on the edges. This method works well if you like your pasta with a bit of a crust.
For a more flavorful twist, you can add some extra ingredients while reheating. Sauté some minced garlic and chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or basil) in a pan with a little olive oil before adding the leftover pasta. Toss the pasta with the aromatic mixture until it's heated through. This will give your leftover pasta a fresh and vibrant taste.
If you have a lot of leftover sauce, you can reheat it separately in a saucepan over low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent scorching. Once the sauce is heated, add the cooked pasta and toss until it's well-coated and heated through. This method ensures that the pasta doesn't absorb too much sauce and become mushy.
Random Fact about Ziti Pasta with Pork and Escarole
The dish ziti pasta with pork and escarole in creamy thyme sauce is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. It's a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to suit different tastes by adding various herbs or spices. This dish is a great source of protein and essential nutrients, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal. Additionally, the creamy thyme sauce adds a rich and indulgent element to the dish, elevating its overall taste. Whether you're cooking for a special occasion or a casual dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving for more.
Is This Ziti Pasta Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?
This ziti pasta with pork and escarole in creamy thyme sauce recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients like pork tenderloin, escarole, and ziti makes it a budget-friendly option. The dish offers a satisfying and flavorful meal for a family of four at an approximate cost of $20. The combination of pork, escarole, and creamy thyme sauce creates a harmonious blend of flavors, earning it a solid 8/10 rating.
Is This Ziti Pasta Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
The ziti pasta with pork and escarole in creamy thyme sauce recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes:
- Pork tenderloin, a lean protein source
- Escarole, a nutrient-dense leafy green vegetable
- Shallot, which provides flavor and some nutrients
- Thyme, a herb with potential health benefits
However, the recipe also contains some less healthy components:
- Heavy cream, which is high in saturated fat and calories
- Cooking oil, which adds extra fat and calories
- Relatively high sodium content from the added salt and chicken broth
- Refined pasta (ziti), which is lower in fiber and nutrients compared to whole grain alternatives
To make this recipe healthier, several modifications can be made:
- Replace the heavy cream with a lower-fat alternative, such as evaporated skim milk or Greek yogurt, to reduce the saturated fat and calorie content
- Use a smaller amount of cooking oil or opt for a healthier oil like olive oil
- Reduce the added salt and choose a low-sodium chicken broth to decrease the overall sodium content
- Swap the refined ziti pasta for a whole grain or legume-based pasta to increase the fiber and nutrient content
- Increase the proportion of escarole to pasta and pork, boosting the vegetable content and reducing the calorie density of the dish
- Add additional vegetables, such as diced tomatoes or bell peppers, to further increase the nutrient density and fiber content
By making these adjustments, the recipe can be transformed into a more balanced and nutritious meal while still maintaining its delicious flavor profile.
Editor's Thoughts on This Creamy Thyme Sauce Recipe
The ziti pasta with pork and escarole in creamy thyme sauce recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The tender pork, wilted escarole, and creamy thyme sauce create a harmonious blend that is both comforting and elegant. The addition of grainy mustard adds a delightful tanginess to the dish, while the ziti pasta provides a satisfying base. This recipe offers a perfect balance of savory and creamy elements, making it a delightful choice for a special dinner. The suggested wine pairing with a dry Riesling from the Alsace region in France is a thoughtful touch that enhances the overall dining experience.
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Why trust this Ziti Pasta with Pork and Escarole in Creamy Thyme Sauce Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying meal. The tender pork tenderloin is seasoned to perfection, while the escarole adds a delightful touch of bitterness. The creamy thyme sauce, made with chicken broth and heavy cream, brings richness and depth to the dish. The addition of grainy mustard provides a subtle tang, elevating the overall taste. The use of ziti pasta ensures a hearty and comforting base for the dish. Trust in the harmonious blend of ingredients and the expertise behind this recipe for a truly enjoyable dining experience.
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