Pasta pie with red wine sauce

Pasta and Red Wine Sauce Pie – An Unforgettable Delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Servings: 6-8

This pasta and red wine sauce pie recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a refined culinary experience. Combining the fluffy texture of the pasta with creamy cheese and the sweetness of the wine sauce, this pie will quickly become a favorite at your table. The origins of this recipe are steeped in culinary traditions that blend diverse influences, but the result is always the same: a delicious dish that brings joy and warmth around the table.

Ingredients

For the pie:
- 4 sheets of pastry (preferably made from wheat flour)
- 300 g thin pasta (spaghetti or vermicelli)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 eggs (preferably fresh)
- 6-7 tablespoons sugar (adjustable to taste)
- 100 g sour cream (ideal for cooking, with a high-fat content)
- 200 g fresh cheese (cottage cheese or ricotta)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A handful of raisins (optional, but recommended for added sweetness)
- Zest of one lemon (for a touch of freshness)
- Oil (for greasing)
- Breadcrumbs (for lining)

For the sauce:
- 300 ml sweet red wine (a quality wine that you enjoy)
- 1 cup sugar (adjustable according to desired sweetness)
- Cinnamon (to taste)
- Cardamom (optional, but adds an exotic note)

Instructions

Step 1: Cooking the pasta
Start by boiling the pasta. Choose a large pot, add water and salt, then bring it to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 7-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain well and immediately mix with melted butter. This step will prevent sticking and add a savory flavor.

Step 2: Creating the cheese mixture
In a large bowl, mix the sour cream with the fresh cheese, egg yolks, sugar, raisins, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Ensure the mixture is smooth and creamy. This will be the base for your pie filling, providing a velvety texture and divine taste.

Step 3: Incorporating the egg whites
In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This will add a light fluffiness to your filling, making the pie more airy. Gently fold the egg whites into the cheese mixture, being careful not to deflate the air in the composition.

Step 4: Assembling the pie
Grease a baking dish with oil and line it with breadcrumbs. Place two sheets of pastry, each brushed with oil, so they cover the sides of the dish. Add the pasta and cheese mixture, then cover with the remaining two sheets of pastry, also brushed with oil. Make sure the sheets are well placed to avoid leaks.

Step 5: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the pie for 30-35 minutes or until it turns golden and crispy on top. The aroma that will fill your kitchen during baking will be irresistible!

Step 6: Preparing the wine sauce
In a saucepan, combine the sweet red wine with sugar and bring to a boil. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens. Add cinnamon and cardamom for a fragrant and complex flavor. This sauce will perfectly complement the pie, adding an extra layer of flavor.

Step 7: Serving
Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve each portion drizzled with warm wine sauce. This combination will provide a delicious contrast between the sweetness of the sauce and the saltiness of the cheese.

Practical tips
- If you want a healthier version, you can replace sugar with honey or maple syrup.
- You can also add other ingredients to the filling, such as chopped nuts or dried fruits to diversify the flavors.
- Use quality wine, as it will significantly influence the taste of the sauce.

Pairings and serving
This pasta and red wine sauce pie pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad dressed with a light lemon vinaigrette. Additionally, a glass of red wine or a warm fruit tea will perfectly complement the meal.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use whole grain pasta? Absolutely! Whole grain pasta adds extra fiber and a more pronounced flavor.
- How can I store the pie? Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can gently reheat it in the oven.
- Is it suitable for vegans? You can adapt the recipe using vegan alternatives for cheese and eggs.

Conclusion
This pasta and red wine sauce pie is more than just a simple dessert; it is a true culinary experience. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat your family, its unmistakable taste and attractive appearance will impress every time. Enjoy each slice and cherish the moments spent around the table!