Baccalà alla Gaetana con Cavolfiore
What Started it all:
BACCALA', OLIVE NERE DI GAETA, CAVOLFIORE
This delightful Italian dish brings together the rich flavors of salted cod (baccalà), the tangy taste of Gaeta olives, and the earthy notes of cauliflower. It's a comforting meal that’s perfect for a family gathering or a special occasion. Let's dive into this simple yet elegant recipe designed for four people!
Ingredients
- 400g Baccalà (salted cod), soaked and desalted
- 200g Olive Nere di Gaeta (Gaeta black olives), pitted
- 1 medium Cauliflower, cut into florets
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Prepare the Baccalà: If you haven't already, soak the baccalà in cold water for 24-48 hours, changing the water several times. This will help remove the excess salt. After soaking, drain and pat dry.
- Cook the Cauliflower: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the cauliflower florets and cook for about 5-7 minutes until tender but still firm. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the Baccalà: Place the soaked baccalà in the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until the fish is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork.
- Incorporate the Cauliflower: Gently add the cooked cauliflower to the skillet with the baccalà. Toss to combine and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Add the Olives and Season: Stir in the pitted Gaeta olives, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow everything to heat through for another 2 minutes.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving. Plate the dish and enjoy!
Baccalà alla Gaetana con Cavolfiore is a beautiful representation of Italian cuisine, highlighting the balance of flavors and the importance of quality ingredients. This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to introduce your friends and family to the joys of cooking Italian food. Enjoy your meal!