Meat Spinners

Trottole with meat: A feast of flavors and colors

Trottole, those twisted and cheerful pasta shapes, are not just a culinary delight but also a visual joy. When you see them, they seem to smile at you from the plate! This type of pasta, often colored with tomatoes or spinach, is perfect for transforming an ordinary meal into an unforgettable gastronomic experience. In this recipe, we will combine trottole with a savory beef garnish, vegetables, and aromatic spices, creating a main dish that is sure to impress.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 500 g trottole pasta (mixed, with tomatoes, spinach, and plain)
- 1 kg beef (preferably chuck or neck)
- 1 large onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 stalk of celery
- 1 tablespoon red pepper paste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 5 cloves of garlic
- 100 ml olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- A handful of fresh parsley for garnish

Step by step for a perfect recipe:

1. Boiling the pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add salt, then add the trottole pasta. Boil according to the package instructions (usually between 8 and 12 minutes). Make sure the pasta remains al dente for an ideal texture. Once done, drain and set aside.

2. Preparing the ingredients: Peel the onion, carrot, and celery. Chop them finely so they cook evenly. Also, cut the beef into cubes of about 2 cm.

3. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become translucent and slightly caramelized.

4. Adding the meat: At this stage, add the cubes of beef to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, red pepper paste, paprika, and dried rosemary. Mix well to coat the meat with flavors.

5. Simmering: Add enough water to cover the ingredients (about 500 ml). Let everything simmer over medium heat for 30 minutes, until the meat becomes tender. If using young beef, the cooking time may be shorter, so check periodically.

6. Finishing the dish: Once the meat is cooked, add the minced garlic and parsley. Mix well and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to intensify the flavors.

7. Serving: Assemble the plate: place the trottole on a platter or in deep plates, then add the meat sauce on top. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch of color and freshness.

Serving suggestions: This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad and a bottle of red wine. You can also add grated Parmesan on top for an even more intense flavor.

Tips and useful advice:

- Choosing the meat: Young beef is more tender and cooks faster, so opt for chuck or neck.
- Variations: You can experiment with different vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to add more colors and flavors.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of trottole with meat contains about 600-700 calories, providing a meal rich in proteins and essential vitamins from vegetables.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use whole wheat pasta? Yes, whole wheat pasta is an excellent choice for a healthier, fiber-rich option.
2. How can I make the sauce spicier? Add a bit of chili pepper or chili flakes to the meat mixture.
3. What other recipes can I try with trottole? Trottole also pair wonderfully with cheese-based sauces or tomato and olive sauces.

Trottole with meat are more than just a simple dish; they are an invitation to the table, a celebration of taste, and an opportunity to spend time with loved ones. So put on your apron, turn on the stove, and enjoy this flavorful recipe!