Pasta with cheeses and red leaf salad

A delicious and comforting recipe for pasta with cheese and red curly lettuce salad

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Today, I invite you to enjoy a recipe that combines creamy textures and intense flavors: pasta with cheese and red curly lettuce salad. This recipe is perfect for a quick yet impressive dinner and is an excellent choice to wow your family or friends. Let's get started!

A short story about the recipe

Cheesy pasta is a classic choice in many cultures' kitchens, often associated with the comfort and joy of family meals. Gorgonzola cheese, with its distinct and slightly spicy flavor, blends wonderfully with the other cheeses, creating a rich and decadent sauce. The red curly lettuce adds a note of freshness and crunch, balancing the rich flavors of the cheeses. A perfect combination, isn't it?

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

- 500 g pasta (ideally ridged penne to hold the sauce)
- 300 g red curly lettuce, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 100 g butter
- 100 g gorgonzola, crumbled
- 50 g Swaizer cheese, grated
- 50 g cheese, grated
- 300 g sour cream
- 150 ml milk
- Nutmeg, pepper, and salt (to taste)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for serving

Preparation technique

Step 1: Boiling the pasta

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Make sure the water is well salted, as this will add flavor to the pasta. When the water starts to boil, add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8 and 12 minutes.

Step 2: Preparing the sauce

While the pasta is boiling, take a saucepan and melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and red curly lettuce and sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent, and the lettuce softens slightly.

Helpful tips: It is important to stir constantly to prevent burning. If you feel the mixture is sticking, you can add a tablespoon of water.

Step 3: Adding the cheeses

Once the onion and lettuce are sautéed, add the gorgonzola cheese, Swaizer cheese, and grated cheese. Mix well to combine the cheeses, allowing them to melt over medium heat.

Step 4: Creating the creamy sauce

After the cheeses have started to melt, add the sour cream and milk, stirring constantly. Add a pinch of nutmeg, pepper, and salt to taste. Let the sauce simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

For a more intense flavor: You can add a tablespoon of mustard or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to give depth to the sauce.

Step 5: Combining the pasta with the sauce

When the pasta is ready, drain it, but do not rinse. Add the pasta directly to the cheese sauce and mix well to coat evenly. Let them cook together for 2 minutes so that the pasta absorbs the flavors of the sauce.

Step 6: Serving

Serve the pasta hot, sprinkled with fresh chopped parsley and, if desired, with grated parmesan on top. This pasta with cheese and red curly lettuce salad is perfect for a cozy dinner and can be paired with a glass of white wine or fresh lemonade.

Possible variations

This recipe is extremely versatile. You can experiment with different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or ricotta, for a different taste. You can also add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, which will combine perfectly with the creamy sauce.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Yes, you can use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Cooking time may vary, so make sure to check the package.

2. How can I store the sauce for later use?
The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. We recommend reheating it over low heat, adding a little milk to thin it out.

3. What drinks pair best with this pasta?
A dry white wine or a light blonde beer are excellent choices. If you prefer non-alcoholic drinks, lemonade or iced tea will perfectly complement the meal.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe offers a balance between carbohydrates from the pasta, healthy fats from the cheeses, and proteins. Gorgonzola cheese is rich in calcium and protein, while red curly lettuce provides a dose of fiber and essential vitamins. Additionally, the butter and sour cream add a creamy texture and rich flavor, making this meal a comforting and nourishing option.

Personal note

I remember the moments when I prepared this recipe on cool autumn evenings, alongside loved ones. The smell of melted cheese and sautéed onion filled the house, bringing a sense of warmth and comfort. I encourage you to create beautiful memories around this meal, perhaps with a good movie or a conversation filled with smiles.

Now, with your recipe for pasta with cheese and red curly lettuce salad, you are ready to impress and enjoy a delicious meal! Don't forget to share this recipe with your friends and tell them about your culinary adventures. Enjoy your meal!