Pasta pudding with 3 types of cheese and arugula

Pasta Pudding with 3 Types of Cheese and Arugula

Welcome to the delicious world of quick and flavorful dishes! Today, I will teach you how to prepare a pasta pudding with 3 types of cheese and arugula, a dish that perfectly combines the creamy texture of cheeses with the freshness of arugula. This recipe is ideal for a hearty lunch or a savory dinner, and it will surely impress your family and friends.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 400 g spiral pasta (or any other preferred pasta)
- 150 g ricotta cheese
- 150 g grated cheese
- 150 g grated mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Butter (approximately the size of a walnut, for greasing the baking dish)
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- 1 cup of milk (approximately 250 ml)
- Olive oil (for sautéing the garlic)
- 3-4 eggs (depending on their size)
- A handful of fresh arugula leaves
- Dried thyme (to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- For topping: 3 tablespoons grated cheese and 2 eggs

History of Pasta Pudding

Pasta pudding is a dish that has evolved over time, blending influences from various culinary cultures. Its origins are deep, inspired by how pasta has been integrated into traditional meals, remaining a symbol of comfort and conviviality. This recipe for pasta pudding with cheese and arugula combines the rusticity of cheeses with the freshness of vegetables, creating a versatile and delicious dish.

Step by Step

1. Boil the pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spiral pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 12 minutes, until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to stop the cooking process.

2. Prepare the garlic
In a skillet, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Crush 2-3 cloves of garlic and sauté them in the oil for 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them, or the taste will become bitter.

3. Mix the cheeses
In a large bowl, add the ricotta, grated cheese, and grated mozzarella. These three cheeses provide a perfect combination of textures and flavors. Mix well to combine the ingredients.

4. Add the aromatic ingredients
In the same bowl, add the chopped arugula leaves, sautéed garlic, lemon juice, freshly ground pepper, and dried thyme. These ingredients will add a fresh and aromatic taste to the dish.

5. Incorporate the pasta and milk
After mixing the ingredients, add the cooked pasta and milk. Stir everything well to ensure an even distribution of the cheeses and flavors.

6. Prepare the baking dish
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking dish with butter, making sure it is well covered to prevent sticking.

7. Pour the mixture
Pour the pasta and cheese mixture into the prepared dish. Make sure it is evenly distributed.

8. The final topping
In a small bowl, beat the 2 eggs and mix them with the 3 tablespoons of grated cheese. This mixture will create a delicious and crispy layer on top of the pudding. Pour it evenly over the mixture in the dish.

9. Bake the pudding
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the pudding is golden and firm to the touch.

10. Serving
Let the pudding cool for a few minutes before cutting it. Serve warm, alongside a fresh green salad or a side of grilled vegetables. It is a dish that can be enjoyed both as a main course and as an appetizer.

Practical Tips

- Choosing cheeses: You can experiment with other types of cheese, such as goat cheese or feta, for a different flavor.
- Arugula: This adds a hint of bitterness that balances the richness of the cheeses. If you don’t have arugula, you can use fresh spinach or even basil leaves.
- Variations: You can add vegetables of your choice, such as zucchini, tomatoes, or bell peppers, for extra nutrients and texture.
- Recommended drinks: Try this pudding with a dry white wine or fresh tomato juice, which will perfectly complement the flavors of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole grain pasta?
Absolutely! Whole grain pasta will add extra fiber and nutrients while maintaining the delicious texture of the dish.

2. Is this pudding suitable for vegans?
You can adapt the recipe using egg-free pasta and vegan cheeses while keeping the original flavors.

3. How can I store the pudding?
The pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.

Nutritional Benefits

This pasta pudding is not only delicious but also nutritious. The cheeses are excellent sources of calcium and protein, while arugula provides important vitamins and antioxidants. Whole grain pasta, if chosen, contributes fiber that aids digestion.

I hope this recipe for pasta pudding with 3 types of cheese and arugula inspires you to explore culinary delights! With every bite, you will feel the harmony of flavors and textures, turning every meal into a celebration. Enjoy!