Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something unique, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! These fried capellini balls are the perfect answer. Imagine crispy, golden-brown balls bursting with a delicious mix of pasta, cheese, and herbs. They're a fun twist on classic Italian flavors, ideal as a quick dinner, appetizer, or even a satisfying snack. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet spectacular dish! This recipe offers a healthy twist on a classic, making it a great option for those looking for easy recipes and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound capellini pasta
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Cook the capellini according to package directions until al dente. Drain well, reserving about 1/4 cup of the pasta water.
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Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked capellini, Parmesan cheese, Pecorino Romano cheese, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
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Bind the Mixture: Add the beaten eggs to the pasta mixture and gently toss to combine. If the mixture seems too dry, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water until it's moist enough to hold its shape.
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Form the Balls: Using your hands, form the pasta mixture into 1-inch balls. You should get approximately 20-25 balls.
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Bread the Balls: Place the breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Roll each pasta ball in the breadcrumbs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
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Fry the Balls: Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded pasta balls in the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
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Cook Until Golden Brown: Fry the balls for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Tips for Perfect Fried Capellini Balls:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in greasy balls. Fry in batches for best results.
- Use panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs create a wonderfully light and crispy coating.
- Adjust seasonings to your liking: Feel free to add other herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or red pepper flakes.
- Serve immediately: These fried capellini balls are best enjoyed fresh out of the oil.
Variations:
- Add some spice: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pasta mixture for a spicy kick.
- Cheese it up: Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or ricotta.
- Meat lovers delight: Add cooked and crumbled sausage or ground beef to the mixture for extra protein.
- Vegetarian option: Leave out the meat, and add sauteed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Fat: 12-15g Protein: 8-10g Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer for your next gathering. Enjoy the delicious homemade cooking experience and the wonderful taste of these fried capellini balls – a delightful addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes and best recipes!