Braised cabbage with pasta [mafaldine]

Sautéed Cabbage with Mafaldine Pasta - a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

A brief history of the recipe

Sautéed cabbage with pasta is a simple yet flavorful recipe that has been prepared for generations. This combination of cabbage, a humble yet nourishing ingredient, and pasta, a staple food, has been enjoyed over time for its hearty texture and comforting taste. Cabbage, with its nutritional properties, is a versatile vegetable, and when cooked properly, it becomes a staple ingredient in many savory dishes.

Market inspiration

It all started on a market day when I spotted a shiny green cabbage, almost like a culinary jewel. It was so beautiful, with its glossy leaves and vibrant green color that seemed to shout, "cook me!" This cabbage was the perfect choice for our recipe, and the blend with the high-quality mafaldine pasta, which is egg-free, will turn this dish into a true delicacy.

Ingredients

- 1 green cabbage (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 1 package of mafaldine pasta (approximately 400g)
- 100 ml extra virgin olive oil
- 2 sprigs of fresh dill, chopped
- 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 bay leaf
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Salt, to taste
- 2-3 ripe tomatoes, diced (optional)

An important detail

To achieve a truly flavorful dish, it is essential to use quality ingredients. Fresh cabbage and quality pasta will make a significant difference in the final taste.

Cooking technique

1. Preparing the cabbage: Wash the cabbage under cold running water to remove any impurities. Remove the core and slice the cabbage into thin strips, about 1 cm wide. It is essential that the cabbage is fresh and crunchy, so it will require a shorter cooking time.

2. Sautéing the cabbage: In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced cabbage, salt, and bay leaf. Stir well to incorporate the ingredients. Sauté the cabbage for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes slightly soft but still retains a crunchy texture. Add the chopped dill and thyme, as well as the freshly ground black pepper, to enhance the flavors.

3. Boiling the pasta: In a separate pot, bring water to a boil and add salt. When the water is boiling, add the mafaldine pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once the pasta is ready, drain it well, but retain a little of the cooking water to add if necessary.

4. Combining the dishes: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sautéed cabbage and mix well. If the dish is too dry, add a little of the pasta cooking water to create a light sauce.

5. Serving: Transfer the dish to a deep platter and, if desired, add the diced fresh tomatoes on top for a pop of color and freshness. You can garnish with a few dill leaves for an elegant touch.

Meat variation

For those who prefer a heartier version, you can add a few slices of sausage or ham before you start sautéing the cabbage. These will add extra flavors and turn the dish into a more substantial main course.

Helpful tip

If you want to further intensify the flavors of the dish, you can add a teaspoon of sweet or hot paprika during the sautéing of the cabbage. This will add a hint of warmth and highlight the flavors of the vegetables.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Of course! While mafaldine offers a unique texture and shape, you can experiment with any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.

2. How can I make the dish spicier?
Add chili flakes or chili sauce during the sautéing of the cabbage for a spicy kick.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes! This recipe is completely vegan, but make sure the pasta used does not contain eggs.

Nutritional benefits

Cabbage is a vegetable rich in vitamins C and K, as well as fiber, contributing to a healthy diet. Mafaldine pasta, being a source of carbohydrates, will provide you with the energy needed for an active day. This recipe is not only tasty but also nutritious, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners.

Suitable pairings

This recipe pairs wonderfully with a glass of dry white wine or a warm herbal tea. It can also be served alongside a fresh green salad for an extra boost of vitamins and freshness.

In conclusion, sautéed cabbage with mafaldine pasta is a simple yet extremely flavorful recipe that will delight your meal. With quality ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you will achieve a delicious dish that will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. I wish you happy cooking and enjoy your meal!