Ep 5. Classic Neapolitan Pasta; Pasta Classica Napoletana

In the fifth episode of season 28 of Ciao Italia, host Mary Ann Esposito takes viewers on a culinary journey to Naples, Italy, to explore the classic pasta dish of the region. Known for its vibrant food culture, Naples is famous for its pasta dishes, and Mary Ann is here to share her expertise on the traditional method of making pasta classica Napoletana.

The episode commences with Mary Ann introducing viewers to the star of the dish - the classic tomato sauce. She demonstrates how to make the perfect sauce by using fresh and flavorful ingredients, including San Marzano tomatoes, garlic, and fresh herbs. The simple yet robust sauce adds just the right amount of flavor to the pasta, and Mary Ann emphasizes the importance of using high-quality ingredients to achieve the authentic taste.

Next, Mary Ann dives into the world of pasta and shares her secrets for making the perfect pasta classica Napoletana. She starts by mixing flour and water to create a soft, pliable dough. With her pasta maker, Mary Ann shows the necessary techniques to shape spaghetti, fettuccine, and linguine, the preferred pasta shapes for this dish. Her instructions are clear and precise, making it easy for viewers to replicate the process at home.

As the pasta cooks, Mary Ann prepares the finishing touches to the dish. She cooks crispy pancetta and fresh asparagus for extra flavor and texture. Mary Ann also mentions the traditional additions of pecorino romano cheese and red pepper flakes to finish off the dish. The result is an aromatic and flavorful meal that embodies the true spirit of Naples.

Finally, Mary Ann serves up the pasta classica Napoletana to two guests, one of whom hails from the region. They give their seal of approval on the dish, relishing in the flavors and textures of the pasta and tomato sauce. Mary Ann shares her delight in introducing viewers to this classic dish and encourages everyone to try the recipe at home.

In summary, the fifth episode of season 28 of Ciao Italia is a must-watch for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of traditional pasta dishes. With her infectious charm and culinary expertise, Mary Ann Esposito guides viewers through the process of making pasta classica Napoletana, giving them the knowledge and confidence to recreate the dish in their own kitchens. From start to finish, the episode is a celebration of the vibrant food culture of Naples and a testament to the power of simple, authentic ingredients.