Spirals with breadcrumbs, walnuts, and cinnamon

Spiral Pasta with Breadcrumbs, Walnuts, and Cinnamon

When it comes to simple yet delicious dishes, spiral pasta with breadcrumbs, walnuts, and cinnamon is an excellent choice. This recipe combines the soft texture of pasta with the crunch of walnuts and the sweetness of cinnamon, offering a comforting culinary experience. Whether served warm as a dessert or cold as a snack, these spirals are perfect for any time of the day. Let's begin our culinary journey!

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 250 g spiral pasta (fusilli) - the perfect choice to capture all the flavors
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs - for a crunchy layer
- 3 tablespoons walnuts - chopped, for a rich taste (preferably Romanian walnuts)
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar - adds a caramelized sweetness
- Zest of one lemon - a touch of freshness
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon - for aroma and warmth
- 50 g butter - to bind all the ingredients into a symphony of flavors

Preparation

1. Cooking the pasta
Start by bringing 1 liter of water to a boil in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt and then the spiral pasta. Boil for 10 minutes or according to the package instructions until al dente. They should be cooked but still have a pleasant texture.

2. Draining and cooling the pasta
Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well and rinse it under a stream of cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is essential to maintain the perfect texture.

3. Preparing the crunchy mixture
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until golden. This will add a delicious flavor and a crunchy texture, perfect to accompany the pasta.

4. Adding the walnuts and flavors
Add the chopped walnuts, brown sugar, lemon zest, and cinnamon to the skillet. Mix all the ingredients well and let them toast together for another 2 minutes. The aroma will be simply irresistible!

5. Combining the pasta with the mixture
Now, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, gently stirring to combine all the ingredients. Make sure the pasta is evenly coated with the crunchy mixture.

6. Serving
The spiral pasta with breadcrumbs, walnuts, and cinnamon can be served either warm or cold, depending on your preferences. You can add a drizzle of honey or a vanilla sauce for an extra touch of flavor.

Practical tips

- Choosing the walnuts: Use fresh walnuts, and if you like, you can also add almonds or hazelnuts for a variety of textures and flavors.
- The sugar: Brown sugar adds a note of caramelization, but you can also experiment with white sugar or even alternative sweeteners if you want a healthier version.
- Variations: For an even more interesting taste, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or vanilla to the breadcrumb mixture.

Nutritional benefits

These spirals are not only delicious but also nutritious! Walnuts are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, and whole grain pasta (if you choose this option) provides essential fiber for healthy digestion.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can experiment with other pasta shapes like penne or tagliatelle. They may take a little longer to cook, but the taste will be just as wonderful.

- How can I store the spirals?
These spirals can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. We recommend reheating them before serving, adding a little butter for a richer taste.

- What can I pair the spiral pasta with breadcrumbs, walnuts, and cinnamon?
These spirals pair perfectly with a fruit tea or a sweet wine. Additionally, for a complete meal, you can serve them alongside a fresh salad or a yogurt sauce.

Personal note

This recipe for spiral pasta with breadcrumbs, walnuts, and cinnamon reminds me of my childhood when my grandmother would prepare this dish for us, often on chilly autumn days. So, I encourage you to add your personal touch with your cooking memories. Whether you make it for family or friends, these spirals will surely create unforgettable moments!

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to get to work! Cook with love and enjoy every bite!