SALATì with Chili Pepper in Cream of ‘Nduja and Mascarpone
Today I am going to let you in on a secret to turn a simple appetizer into an unforgettable experience: my Crema di ‘Nduja e Mascarpone.
Imagine the enveloping creaminess of mascarpone cheese embracing the bold and spicy character of ‘nduja di Spilinga, creating a combination of flavors that is both bold and velvety. But the final touch, the ingredient that lights the fuse of flavor and is truly addictive, is provided by our protagonists: the SALATÌ al Peperoncino. These cookies, with their vibrant spiciness and perfect crunch, are not just a side dish, but the ideal ally for dipping, enhancing every nuance of this irresistible cream.
Get ready for an intense sensory experience, a real “watch out, it’s addictive!”
Ingredients for the recipe
- 100 g of mascarpone cheese
- 30 g of ‘Nduja di Spilinga (or to taste, depending on how spicy you want it)
- SALATì savory chili cookies for serving
Procedure:
1
Prepare the cream
In a bowl, place the mascarpone and ‘nduja.
2
Mix the ingredients
Work vigorously with a fork or small whisk until a smooth, pinkish-colored cream is obtained. The fatness of the mascarpone will dampen and at the same time bind the flavor of the ‘nduja.
Plating:
4
Serve now!
Serve the cream spread in a bowl, surrounded by the chili cookies. Warning: it’s addictive!
The Perfect Balance of Spicy and Velvety
Together we have created a true temptation for the palate. This Crema di ‘Nduja e Mascarpone is a masterpiece of balance: the spiciness of the ‘nduja is masterfully muted and mellowed by the sweetness of the mascarpone, creating a silky texture that invites the next spoonful. But it is the pairing with the Chili SALATÌ that elevates this cream to a higher level.
Their unmistakable crunchiness and “on-theme” spiciness blend harmoniously with the creaminess, adding an extra dimension of flavor and texture that makes every bite dynamic and satisfying. An appetizer, an aperitif treat or a bold addition to your cutting board, this cream is proof that a few ingredients, when carefully chosen, can create an unforgettable flavor explosion.
Perfect Recipe Pairings. SALATì al Peperoncino in Crema di ‘Nduja e Mascarpone
The right pairing can turn a good dish into a memorable experience. Here are my selections to accompany your Crema di ‘Nduja and Mascarpone with Chili SALATÌ:
Recommended Wines: Elegance and Freshness
- Prosecco Extra Dry DOCG: Its fine bubbles and smoothness balance the spiciness and plumpness of the cream, cleansing the palate and leaving a pleasant sensation of freshness. Fruity hints pair well.
- Cirò Rosato (Gaglioppo): A Calabrian rosé, like ‘nduja! Its intense color, good structure and notes of red fruits and spices marry beautifully with ‘nduja, creating a regional and tasty pairing. Its freshness balances the spiciness.
- Greco di Tufo: A Campanian white wine of character, with good acidity and mineral notes. Its structure allows it to hold its own against the ‘ndezza, while its freshness cleanses the palate of mascarpone fat and spiciness.
Alcoholic Drinks: Cocktails That Impress
- Negroni Bianco: A lighter and more delicate variation of the classic Negroni, with gin, dry white vermouth and gentian liqueur or a light bitter. Its aromatic complexity and bitter note balance the richness of the cream and spiciness.ù
- Spicy Margarita: Tequila infused with jalapeño (or chili), fresh lime juice and Triple Sec. This “on-theme” cocktail amplifies the spicy side in a controlled way, creating a bold and refreshing experience that enhances the chili cookies.
- Old Fashioned with an orange twist and a pinch of chili powder: The warmth of the bourbon and the citrus note marry well with the smoky flavor of the ‘nduja, while the touch of chili recalls the cookies, creating a robust and intriguing combination.
Non-alcoholic Drinks: Freshness for All
Even without alcohol, you can create pairings that enhance the recipe.
- Virgin Mary with a touch of Tabasco: The savory and spicy notes of tomato juice pair perfectly with ‘nduja and chili cookies, creating a taste experience by concordance, but without alcohol.
- Fresh lemonade with ginger syrup and a sprig of mint: The lively acidity of the lemon and the pungent note of the ginger cleanse the palate and offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cream, while the mint adds freshness.
- Cold infusion of red fruit and dried chili: A bold option for those who love spicy. The sweetness of the red fruit (e.g., strawberry, raspberry) and the spicy aftertaste pair well with the cream, amplifying the experience.
Choose the combination that best suits your taste and the occasion to make your SALATì al Peperoncino in Crema di ‘Nduja e Mascarpone an unforgettable experience!
