Are you craving a delicious, comforting Italian meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further than acini di pepe! This simple pasta dish, featuring tiny, pearl-shaped pasta, is a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a fantastic example of how homemade cooking can be both satisfying and straightforward. This recipe delivers a burst of fresh flavors, making it one of the best recipes for a light yet satisfying meal. Let's get started!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Items
- 1 pound acini di pepe pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
Instructions: Let's Cook!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the acini di pepe and cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Step 3: Create the Sauce: Pour the vegetable broth into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Combine and Finish: Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the broth. Stir gently to combine. Add the Parmesan cheese and half of the basil, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce has slightly thickened. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with the remaining fresh basil.
Tips & Variations: Elevate Your Acini di Pepe
- Add Protein: Boost the protein content by adding cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp to the sauce.
- Vegetable Variations: Incorporate other vegetables like spinach, peas, or diced tomatoes for added nutrients and flavor.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a bright, citrusy twist.
- Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 8-10 grams
- Fat: 8-10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams
This acini di pepe recipe is a quick, healthy meal that's perfect for a busy weeknight. It's a delicious and easy recipe that's sure to become a family favorite. The simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make it ideal for beginner cooks while offering enough room for customization to satisfy experienced culinary enthusiasts. Enjoy your delicious and easy homemade Italian dinner!