Cook the Pasta:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the tagliatelle and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of the pasta water.

Prepare the Speck:

• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
• Add the Speck strips and cook until they start to crisp, about 3-4 minutes.

Create the Sauce:

• Reduce the heat to low. Add the heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to combine with the Speck.
  Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce begins to thicken slightly.
  Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

• Add the drained tagliatelle to the skillet with the Speck sauce.
• Toss well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Serve:

• Serve the pasta hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.

This Tagliatelle with Speck is a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for a cozy dinner. The smoky flavour of the Speck pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce, making it a hit with both family and guests. Enjoy with a glass of your favorite wine for a complete dining experience!

Begin with Bread: Arrange slices of Schüttelbrot on a large wooden serving board. These crispy rye bread slices are the base of your Marende.

Layer the Speck: Drape thin slices of Speck over half of the bread slices. This smoked ham, a South Tyrolean specialty, adds a rich and savory flavor.

Cheese and Sausage: Place slices of mountain cheese and Kaminwurz on the remaining bread slices. The cheese, typically a hearty Alpine variety, complements the smokiness of the Kaminwurz.

Add Freshness: Scatter thinly sliced radishes across the board. Their crispness and mild peppery taste offer a fresh contrast.

Pickles and Olives: Nestle a small bowl of pickles on the board, along with a mix of olives and sun-dried tomatoes. These add a tangy, briny flavor that balances the richness of the meats and cheese.

Butter Up: If desired, serve a small dish of butter for spreading on the Schüttelbrot.

Serving: Invite your guests to assemble their own bites, combining the flavours as they like.

This Marende platter is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of South Tyrolean culture. Every bite is a journey through the flavours and traditions of the Alpine region. Enjoy it with a glass of local wine or a cold beer for the full experience. Buon appetito!