Christmas Eve Pasta

Merry Christmas! And to all a tasty pasta dinner!

-Adapted from a dish served at L’Incontro Restaurant in Florence’s famed Hotel Savoy, hotelsavoy.it

Italians traditionally eat fish for Christmas Eve dinner often called the Feast of the Seven Fishes. Here is one of our favorites. It’s made with anchovies, but you can substitute canned tuna or any fish you like. Happy Holidays, Buon Natale!

 Makes 4 to 6 Servings

 Ingredients:

1 pound pasta such as paccheri or penne

4 fresh anchovies, cut into bite-sized pieces

2 tablespoons finely minced parsley and basil

3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon lemon juice

Salt

Pepper

6 ounces soft Italian cheese such as burrata or fresh mozzarella, grated

1/4 cup heavy cream

3 cloves garlic, finely minced

Red pepper flakes

1 bunch broccoli rabe, cut into small pieces

Preparation:

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions.

2. Meanwhile, toss the anchovies with the herbs, 1 tablespoon of the oil, lemon juice and salt and pepper to taste in a small bowl. Reserve.

3. In a saucepan, combine the cheese and cream until smooth. Add the garlic, remaining oil and broccoli rabe. Cook until tender. Season to taste with red pepper flakes.

4. Add the drained cooked pasta to the broccoli rabe saucepan and toss to combine. Top with the anchovy mixture and serve.

Want another Christmas Eve dish? Try Rick Bayless’ Christmas Eve Salad.

For more holiday recipes, like cookies, cocktails, and hot chocolate, visit our Recipe File.