Beet + Feta pasta
continuing to post recipes i developed that i was hooked on in 2022. this is beet and feta pasta!!
2 beets, roasted with olive oil (30-40 minutes on 350, depending on the size of the beet)
2-3 tablespoons heavy cream
1 tablespoon pasta water
1 package of pasta of choice, cooked al dente (salt your pasta water!!)
chopped pistachios
1/2c feta (or less if you’re not a cheese freak like me)
1/4th cup mint, chiffonade
blend the cooked, skinned beets with the heavy cream and a pinch of salt— you can use an immersion blender or a regular blender, whatever ya got. pour into shallow pan and saute with cooked pasta on low until heated through and the pasta is saturated. once sautéed place into bowl and top with pistachios, feta, and mint. enjoy!
Beet and feta pasta offers not only a visually stunning dish but also a nutritious and flavorful meal option. Beets are rich in essential nutrients like fiber, folate, and vitamin C, known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Roasting the beets with olive oil enhances their natural sweetness and earthy flavor, making the sauce richly satisfying when blended with heavy cream. Using pasta water helps in binding the sauce to the pasta by adding starch, ensuring a silky texture that clings well. Adding pistachios on top introduces a delightful crunch and a dose of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. The mint chiffonade adds freshness, balancing the creamy and earthy notes of the sauce. Salting the pasta water is crucial as it seasons the pasta from within, enhancing the overall taste. This recipe is versatile—choose your preferred pasta, such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti, cooked al dente for the best texture. Additionally, feta cheese adds a tangy and salty contrast that complements the sweet beets, while the heavy cream offers smoothness without overpowering the other ingredients. This combination creates a harmonious dish perfect for any occasion, whether a casual family dinner or a special gathering. For those seeking variations, consider incorporating garlic or shallots when sautéing the pasta and sauce for added aromatic depth. A sprinkle of fresh lemon zest or a dash of black pepper can also elevate the flavors. This beet and feta pasta is not only a feast for the eyes with its vibrant pink hue but also a well-balanced, nutrient-rich meal that highlights seasonal ingredients and simple cooking techniques.
