Aglio E Olio Pasta with Roasted Cauliflower, Peppers & Cashew Nuts
Aglio E Olio is an Italian classic known for its simplicity and bold flavors. This unique variation combines the warmth of garlic and chili with the richness of roasted cauliflower, bell peppers, and crunchy cashew nuts, making it a wholesome and satisfying dish. The combination of spicy heat, savory herbs, and a delightful mix of textures makes this Aglio E Olio pasta a showstopper on any dinner table. Whether you’re hosting a casual weeknight dinner or treating your guests to an Italian-inspired feast, this recipe will surely become a favorite.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti Pasta | 400 grams |
| Garlic cloves | 6 |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Red Chilli flakes | 2 teaspoons |
| Mixed Herbs (Dried) | 2 teaspoons |
| Salt | to taste |
| Tabasco Original Hot Sauce | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Black pepper powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Red Bell Pepper (Capsicum), diced | 1/2 cup |
| Cauliflower (gobi), small florets | 1 cup |
| Cashew nuts | 3 tablespoons |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Course: Main Course
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions:
-
Cooking the Pasta:
- Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Add the spaghetti pasta to the boiling water and cook for 12-15 minutes, or until it reaches an al dente texture.
- Drain the pasta and rinse it under cold running water to halt the cooking process. Drizzle some olive oil over the pasta and toss well to prevent the noodles from sticking.
-
Preparing the Roasted Cauliflower and Peppers:
- Wash the cauliflower and cut it into small florets. Soak the florets in boiling water for a few minutes, then drain and set aside.
- Heat a skillet over high heat, and add the diced red bell peppers. Roast them for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become lightly softened. Remove from the heat and transfer them to a bowl.
- In the same skillet, heat a small amount of olive oil. Add the cauliflower florets and sauté them on medium-high heat for 4-6 minutes, until the florets are golden and firm. Once cooked, remove from the heat, cover, and set aside.
-
Toasting the Cashews and Garlic:
- In a large pan, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil on medium-low heat. Add the cashew nuts and sauté them until they become golden and crisp.
- Once the cashews are toasted, add the minced garlic to the pan and fry until it turns golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Stir in the dried mixed herbs, red chili flakes, salt, and black pepper powder. Allow the mixture to cook for another minute to release the flavors.
-
Combining the Ingredients:
- Quickly add the roasted bell peppers and cauliflower to the pan with the garlic and cashews. Toss well to combine all the ingredients.
- Add the cooked pasta to the pan and stir everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the olive oil and seasonings. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, as needed.
- Drizzle the Tabasco hot sauce over the pasta and toss again, ensuring a balanced spicy kick to the dish.
-
Serving:
- Turn off the heat and transfer the Aglio E Olio Pasta with Roasted Cauliflower, Peppers, and Cashew Nuts into a large serving bowl.
- Serve immediately, and enjoy the vibrant flavors and satisfying crunch of this dish!
Suggested Pairings:
To enhance your meal, consider pairing this Aglio E Olio Pasta with:
- Garlic Bread with Herb Butter: A warm, crispy side that complements the pasta’s bold flavors.
- Tender Coconut Ice Cream: A refreshing and creamy dessert to balance the spiciness of the pasta.
Pro Tip:
For an extra touch of richness, you can sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta just before serving. If you prefer a spicier version, increase the amount of red chili flakes or add more Tabasco hot sauce to taste.
Enjoy this flavorful, hearty, and crunchy Aglio E Olio Pasta with Roasted Cauliflower, Peppers & Cashew Nuts, and indulge in a delightful meal that captures the essence of Italian comfort food with a modern twist!
