Spicy spaghetti with vegetables and goat cheese

Spicy Spaghetti with Vegetables and Goat Cheese

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4

Here’s a vibrant and flavorful recipe - spicy spaghetti with vegetables and goat cheese! This dish is not only a delicious option for lunch or dinner but also a wonderful way to take advantage of fresh vegetables. Plus, it's a simple and quick recipe, perfect for those days when you're short on time.

A brief story
Spaghetti is a symbol of traditional cuisine, and combining it with fresh vegetables and goat cheese is a modern approach with deep roots in Mediterranean gastronomy. This recipe blends the creamy texture of the cheese with the crunch of sautéed vegetables, while the spicy sauce adds a touch of excitement. Thus, each bite is an explosion of flavors that will delight your taste buds.

Ingredients
- 300 grams whole wheat spaghetti
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 medium zucchini
- 1 small eggplant
- 1 red bell pepper
- 8 grams fresh or dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (you can adjust the amount to your preference)
- 250 grams goat cheese, crumbled or sliced

Nutritional benefits
This recipe is packed with nutrients! Whole wheat spaghetti is an excellent source of fiber, which aids digestion and provides a feeling of fullness. The vegetables add essential vitamins and antioxidants, while goat cheese provides protein and calcium. Additionally, olive oil is rich in healthy fats that are beneficial for the heart.

Step by step

Step 1: Boiling the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add a teaspoon of salt to flavor the pasta. When the water is boiling, add the whole wheat spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes). Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. When ready, drain and set aside.

Step 2: Preparing the Vegetables
Meanwhile, prepare the vegetables. Wash the zucchini, eggplant, and red bell pepper. Cut the zucchini and eggplant lengthwise in half, then slice them into thin pieces. The red bell pepper should be julienned (cut into thin strips). Slice the garlic finely.

Step 3: Sautéing the Garlic
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic slices and sauté for about 1 minute until golden and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them, as burnt garlic can give a bitter taste to the dish.

Step 4: Adding the Vegetables
Add the chopped vegetables to the skillet (zucchini, eggplant, and red bell pepper) and sauté for 7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. The vegetables should be slightly crunchy, retaining their texture and nutrients.

Step 5: Seasoning
Once the vegetables are cooked, add the hot sauce and thyme. Mix well to combine the flavors, then add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Gently toss everything together so that the pasta is evenly coated with the vegetables and sauce.

Step 6: Serving
Divide the spaghetti into servings. Generously sprinkle goat cheese on top of each serving. The flavor of the goat cheese will perfectly blend with the other ingredients, adding a creamy and savory taste.

Serving suggestions
This dish is delicious served warm, but can also be tasty when allowed to cool and served as a cold salad. You can add a few fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of olive oil on top for extra flavor. A simple green salad on the side will perfectly complement the meal.

Possible variations
To customize the recipe, you can substitute the vegetables with your favorites, such as zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can add some Kalamata olives or capers. Additionally, replacing goat cheese with feta or mozzarella can provide another dimension of flavor.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, you can use rice or corn pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.

2. How can I make the recipe spicier?
Add more hot sauce or a pinch of finely chopped chili pepper.

3. Can the leftovers be stored?
Yes, the spaghetti can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Conclusion
This spicy spaghetti with vegetables and goat cheese recipe is not only easy to prepare but also very versatile. You can experiment with your favorite vegetables and spices, making each meal a unique culinary experience. Want to bring some variety to your diet? This recipe is the perfect choice! Enjoy every bite and indulge in a healthy and delicious dish!