Pasta with nuts

Nuts Pasta - A Nostalgic Delight

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 2

The culinary journey we will embark on together will take us down the paths of memories, where simple flavors and authentic aromas embrace our souls. Nuts pasta represents a traditional recipe that has brought joy to many homes, being a simple dish but with a story full of emotion. On chilly winter evenings, my mother used this recipe to gather us around the table, and now it's our turn to recreate those special moments.

Ingredients

- 200 g pasta
- 150 g nuts (either fresh or roasted, according to preference)
- 50 g butter
- 50 g sugar (or to taste)
- Grated zest of a lemon or orange (optional, for an extra flavor)

Ingredient Details

- Pasta: Choose high-quality pasta, preferably made from durum wheat, to achieve an al dente texture. You can use various shapes, but long or spiral ones are the most suitable.
- Nuts: The nuts are the star ingredient of the recipe. They are full of healthy fats, proteins, and antioxidants. If you want a deeper flavor, you can roast the nuts in a dry pan for 5-10 minutes before grinding them.
- Butter: An essential ingredient to provide creaminess. Make sure it's of good quality to enhance the final flavor.
- Sugar: It can be adjusted according to personal preferences. Brown sugar can add a touch of caramelization.
- Lemon or orange zest: Adding these ingredients will bring a fresh and invigorating echo, significantly improving the dish.

Preparation Instructions

1. Boiling the pasta: In a large pot, add water and a teaspoon of salt. Bring the water to a boil and add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions, usually between 8-12 minutes, until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

2. Preparing the nuts: Meanwhile, shell the nuts (if not already shelled) and grind them finely. You can use a food processor or a mortar and pestle. The nuts should be ground but not completely turned into powder, rather into a fine texture.

3. Adding the sugar: In a bowl, combine the ground nuts with the sugar. This mixture will add a sweet taste and make every bite truly delicious.

4. Melting the butter: In a pan, add the butter and let it melt over low heat, being careful not to let it brown.

5. Mixing the ingredients: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well. Add it to the pan over the melted butter, and mix well until the pasta is evenly coated.

6. Adding the nuts: Once the pasta is coated with butter, add the nut and sugar mixture. Gently stir to combine the ingredients without breaking the texture of the pasta. If desired, now is the time to add the grated lemon or orange zest for a refreshing taste.

7. Serving: Turn off the heat and let the dish rest for a few minutes. Then, serve the nuts pasta warm, directly from the pan or on plates. You can sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a more attractive appearance.

Useful Tips

- Vegan option: If you want to make this dish vegan, replace the butter with margarine or coconut oil.
- Creative additions: You can experiment by adding cinnamon or vanilla to the nut mixture for a more exotic flavor.
- Keeping the crunchy crust: If you want a crunchy texture, add some roasted nuts on top before serving.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits

This recipe has approximately 450-500 calories per serving, depending on the amount of sugar and butter used. Nuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E, and antioxidants, making them excellent for heart health. Pasta provides complex carbohydrates, which are a quick source of energy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of nuts?
Yes, you can experiment with hazelnuts, pistachios, or almonds, each bringing a distinct flavor.

2. What can I serve with nuts pasta?
It pairs perfectly with a fruit compote or a warm drink, such as citrus tea, to complete the meal.

3. Can I make the recipe in advance?
It is recommended to consume immediately, but if you want to prepare it earlier, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and before serving, reheat it in a pan with a bit of butter.

Conclusion

Nuts pasta is not just a delicious dish, but also a journey through time, evoking pleasant memories and unforgettable moments. This simple yet characterful recipe can quickly become a favorite in your home. Feel free to adapt it to your taste and share it with your loved ones. Cook with love and joy!