Are you looking for a quick dinner idea that's both healthy and delicious? Do you crave pasta but need a gluten-free option? Then look no further! This cassava flour pasta recipe is the perfect solution. It's surprisingly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a satisfyingly light and flavorful pasta dish, perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Get ready to enjoy homemade pasta that's both good for you and tastes amazing!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cassava flour
- 4 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon dried herbs (Italian mix, oregano, or basil work well)
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure your eggs are at room temperature for optimal mixing. This helps create a smoother pasta dough.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional herbs until well combined.
Making the Dough:
- Gradually add the cassava flour to the egg mixture, mixing with a fork or a spatula until a shaggy dough forms. Don't worry if it seems a little dry at first; it will come together.
- Once the dough is mostly combined, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time until it reaches the desired consistency. If it's too sticky, add a little more cassava flour.
Shaping the Pasta:
- Divide the dough into four equal portions. Using a rolling pin, roll out each portion into a thin sheet. You can adjust the thickness to your preference; thinner pasta cooks faster.
- Lightly dust the rolled-out dough with cassava flour to prevent sticking. Then, carefully cut the dough into your desired pasta shape – fettuccine, tagliatelle, or even simple noodles. Be creative!
- If you don't have a pasta cutter, you can simply roll the dough tightly and slice it into thin strands.
Cooking the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently add the pasta and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until al dente. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your pasta.
- Drain the pasta and serve immediately with your favorite sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
This cassava flour pasta is incredibly versatile. Try it with:
- A simple tomato sauce
- Creamy pesto
- A rich meat ragu
- Garlic and olive oil with fresh herbs
- Seafood
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the dough.
- If you want a richer pasta, use egg yolks instead of whole eggs.
- Add different herbs and spices to the dough to create unique flavor profiles.
- This pasta can be made ahead of time. Allow the dough to rest for at least 30 minutes before rolling and cutting. You can also freeze the uncooked pasta for later use.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on serving size and sauce) Protein: 8-10g Carbohydrates: 25-30g Fat: 5-7g
This cassava flour pasta recipe offers a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional pasta. It's a great option for those following a gluten-free diet, and the ease of preparation makes it a perfect addition to your weekly meal rotation. Enjoy experimenting with different sauces and toppings to create your own signature pasta dish!