Italian Recipes

Creamy Fusilli with Artichokes, Goat Cheese, and Toasted Almonds

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Fusilli with Artichokes and Goat Cheese

Category: Pasta Dishes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Fusilli 320g
Extra virgin olive oil 5 tbsp
Garlic 1 clove
Blanched almonds 50g
Pecorino cheese 40g
Fine salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Artichokes 4 hearts
Goat cheese (Caprino) 300g
Fresh parsley 2 tbsp

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient Amount
Calories 460 kcal
Protein 15g
Carbohydrates 48g
Fat 25g
Fiber 6g
Sodium 430mg

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pasta Water:
    Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil for the fusilli. Add a generous pinch of salt once it reaches boiling point. Set aside for cooking the pasta.

  2. Prepare the Artichokes:
    While waiting for the water to boil, clean the artichokes by removing the tough outer leaves and trimming the stems. Slice the hearts of the artichokes into thin, even slices.

  3. Sauté the Artichokes:
    Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the garlic (sliced or minced, according to preference) and sauté it until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the artichokes and cook them gently, stirring occasionally. Lower the heat, cover the pan, and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the artichokes become tender. If necessary, add a bit of hot water or vegetable broth to keep them from drying out.

  4. Toast the Almonds:
    While the artichokes are cooking, slice the almonds into thin sticks. Heat a separate non-stick pan and toast the almond slices until golden brown and fragrant, taking care not to burn them. Set aside.

  5. Cook the Fusilli:
    Once the artichokes are tender, bring the pot of salted water back to a boil and add the fusilli. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving a little pasta water to help with mixing later.

  6. Make the Sauce:
    Once the pasta is ready, add the cooked fusilli directly to the pan with the artichokes. If needed, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to help create a creamy sauce. Stir in the remaining olive oil, followed by the crumbled goat cheese. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese melts and forms a creamy coating on the pasta.

  7. Finish the Dish:
    Grate the pecorino cheese and add it to the pasta, mixing well to incorporate. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If desired, toss in a handful of freshly chopped parsley for an added burst of flavor and color.

  8. Serve:
    Serve the fusilli hot, garnished with the toasted almonds for a delightful crunch. Enjoy your creamy, savory dish with a glass of white wine or your favorite beverage.


Notes:

  • Optional Add-ins: You can add a touch of lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors.
  • Vegan Version: For a vegan twist, swap the goat cheese and pecorino for plant-based alternatives.

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