Farfalle with sweet cheese and oranges

Farfalle with Sweet Cheese and Oranges – A Delicious and Surprising Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Introduction

Farfalle with sweet cheese and oranges is a culinary dish that combines textures and flavors in a unique way. This dish is perfect for both a family dinner and a festive meal. The sweet cottage cheese harmonizes beautifully with the fresh notes of oranges, creating an explosion of flavors that will surprise you with every bite.

The history of this dish is closely linked to the culinary traditions of regions that value local and seasonal ingredients. Combining cheese with fruits is not new, but adding pasta makes this dish truly special.

Ingredients needed

- 1 box Baneasa Farfalle Pasta (about 500g)
- 300g sweet cottage cheese
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 cube of butter (about 20g)
- 2 oranges (juice and diced)
- 1/2 teaspoon anise (optional, for flavor)

Ingredient details

- Farfalle: These butterfly-shaped pasta have the perfect texture to hold sauces and fillings. Choose high-quality pasta for optimal results.
- Sweet cottage cheese: Adds a creamy and slightly sweet note to the dish. You can also use ricotta cheese for a finer texture.
- Oranges: Choose fresh, juicy fruits with smooth skin. The orange juice will add a tangy note, while the diced pieces will provide crunch.
- Anise: An aromatic plant with a sweet flavor that can turn the dish into a unique culinary experience.

Preparation technique

1. Boiling the pasta: In a large pot, add salted water and bring it to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add the farfalle and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-12 minutes, until al dente.
*Practical tips*: Check the pasta 1-2 minutes before the time indicated on the package to avoid overcooking.

2. Preparing the cheese mixture: In a large bowl, add the sweet cottage cheese and sugar. Use a mixer or a fork to combine the ingredients until you get a smooth paste.
*Alternative option*: You can try adding a little vanilla extract for a more sophisticated flavor.

3. Adding the oranges: Peel the two oranges, removing the skin and white membranes. Cut the pulp into small cubes and squeeze the juice from one of them. Add both the cubes and the juice to the cheese mixture and mix well.
*Tip*: Save a few orange slices for the final decoration, adding them to the plate when serving.

4. Mixing the pasta: When the pasta is cooked, drain it well and add it to the bowl with the cheese and orange mixture. Gently mix to avoid crushing the pasta.
*Note*: It is important for the pasta to be warm so that the cheese melts easily and combines well with the other ingredients.

5. Preparing for the oven: Grease a baking dish with butter, ensuring it is evenly coated. Pour the pasta, cheese, and orange mixture into the prepared dish.
*Personal suggestion*: You can sprinkle some chopped nuts on top for added texture and flavor.

6. Adding the egg: Beat the egg in a small bowl and pour it evenly over the mixture in the dish. This will help bind the ingredients during baking.
*Tip*: If you want a crunchier crust, you can add some grated cheese on top.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 45 minutes, or until it becomes golden and nicely browned on top.
*Useful tips*: You can check the progress of the dish from time to time, ensuring it doesn't burn.

Serving

After the dish is ready, let it cool for a few minutes before portioning. Serve warm, decorated with orange slices and possibly a few fresh mint leaves for a pleasant appearance. This dish pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a fruit tea to complement the flavors.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, you can experiment with ricotta or mascarpone cheese for a different texture.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegans? You can adapt the recipe using vegan cheese and a flax egg or another egg substitute.
- What are the serving options? You can add a caramel or chocolate sauce for a more decadent dessert.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is a good source of protein from cheese and carbohydrates from pasta, while oranges provide essential vitamins, such as vitamin C, contributing to a strong immune system. Thus, enjoying these farfalle with sweet cheese and oranges not only gives you a delicious dish but also nutritional benefits.

Original version

If you want to bring an exotic note, you can also add spices like cinnamon or cardamom, giving the dish a warm and comforting taste, perfect for cool evenings.

This recipe for farfalle with sweet cheese and oranges will not only delight your taste buds but will surely become a favorite in your menu! Be bold and personalize the recipe to your liking, and every meal will be a celebration!