Difficulty

Easy

Serves

4 people

Cooking time

Prep 10 min
Cooking 25 min

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smoky chorizo pasta

How To Make Creamy Smoky Chorizo Pasta

Creamy, smoky and packed with flavour, this chorizo pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner. Smoky chorizo, garlic and paprika are combined with a rich tomato and cream sauce that coats every piece of rigatoni, while fresh basil, parmesan and lemon zest bring balance and freshness. Ready in around 35 minutes, it’s an easy, comforting meal that’s just as delicious reheated the next day.

Ingredients
  • 400g dried rigatoni pasta

  • 2 tbsp The Good Oil extra virgin rapeseed oil

  • 2 chorizo sausages, sliced on an angle

  • 1 red onion, finely chopped

  • 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped

  • 3 tsp smoked paprika

  • 1 tsp ground chilli, or to taste

  • 3 tbsp tomato paste

  • 300ml cream

  • Zest of a lemon

  • ¼ cup reserved pasta water

  • Finely grated parmesan, to serve

  • Small handful fresh basil leaves, torn

  • Freshly ground black pepper

Method
  • Heat The Good Oil extra virgin rapeseed oil in a large deep frying pan over medium heat. Add the chorizo and cook, turning occasionally, for 3–4 minutes until well browned and it has released its smoky oils.

  • While the chorizo cooks, cook the pasta in a large saucepan of boiling salted water according to the packet directions, or until al dente. Drain, reserving ¼ cup of the pasta cooking water.

  • Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes or until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add the smoked paprika and chilli and cook for a further 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.

  • Add the tomato paste and lemon zest and cook for 1 minute, stirring until the tomato paste darkens slightly.

  • Pour in the cream and stir to combine. Season generously with freshly ground black pepper. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.

  • Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the pan. Toss until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce. Remove from the heat and stir through half the fresh basil.

  • Taste and season if needed, then divide between serving bowls. Top with grated parmesan and the remaining basil. Serve immediately.

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rapeseed oil

The Good Oil is locally grown in New Zealand and cold-pressed with no harsh processing, retaining its natural nutrients and fresh taste. It’s a clean, GE-free oil pressed without chemicals or high heat, offering a healthy, versatile choice with a high smoke point – perfect for frying, roasting, baking, and salads. A great alternative to olive oil, it brings smooth flavour without overpowering your dish.

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