Pasta in Pudina Chutney Sauce – A Fusion Delight
This vibrant, flavorful fusion recipe combines the rich, herby notes of Indian mint chutney with the comforting texture of pasta, resulting in an exciting and refreshing dish. The combination of fresh mint and coriander leaves, along with green chilies and garlic, creates a zesty chutney that elevates the pasta into something truly unique. Whether you’re looking to shake up your usual pasta routine or simply want a light yet flavorful dinner, this Pasta in Pudina Chutney Sauce is sure to impress.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shell Pasta (or any preferred pasta) | 250 grams |
| Fresh Mint Leaves (Pudina) | 1 cup |
| Fresh Coriander Leaves (Dhania) | 1 cup |
| Green Chilies | 2 |
| Garlic (minced) | 5 cloves |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Lemon Juice | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper Powder | To taste |
| Fresh Parsley (optional) | For garnish |
| Spring Onions (optional) | For garnish (bulb and greens) |
Nutritional Information
(Per serving – approximate values)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 9 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 65 grams |
| Fat | 14 grams |
| Fiber | 4 grams |
| Sugar | 3 grams |
| Sodium | 350 mg |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 2
Cuisine: Fusion
Course: Dinner
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add a teaspoon of salt to season the water. Then, drop in the shell pasta and cook until al dente (about 12-15 minutes). Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cool running water to stop the cooking process. Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the pasta and toss to coat the noodles, ensuring they don’t stick together. -
Prepare the Pudina Chutney:
In a blender or food processor, combine the fresh mint leaves, coriander leaves, green chilies, lemon juice, and salt. Blend until smooth, forming a fragrant chutney paste. -
Sauté the Garlic:
Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the garlic turns golden brown and releases its fragrant aroma. -
Cook the Pudina Chutney:
Add the freshly prepared pudina chutney to the pan with the garlic and sauté it for an additional 5-6 minutes. This step helps to reduce the raw smell of the chutney, allowing the flavors to fully develop and integrate. -
Combine Pasta and Chutney:
Once the chutney is ready, add the cooked pasta to the pan and toss to coat the pasta thoroughly with the chutney. Continue stirring for a couple of minutes to allow the pasta to absorb the vibrant flavors of the chutney. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper, if needed. -
Adjust the Consistency:
If the pasta feels a bit dry, add about 2 teaspoons of water to the pan to create a smoother, creamier texture. For an extra creamy touch, you can also stir in a bit of cream at this stage. -
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish your Pasta in Pudina Chutney with freshly chopped spring onions or parsley for a touch of freshness. Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
For a complete and satisfying meal, pair your Pasta in Pudina Chutney with a side of Garlic Bread and a Summer Lettuce Salad. The garlic bread adds a delightful crunch, while the salad provides a refreshing contrast to the flavorful pasta.
Pro Tips:
- For extra heat: Add more green chilies to the chutney or sprinkle red chili flakes over the pasta just before serving.
- For added creaminess: A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of heavy cream will make the dish even richer.
- For more protein: Add grilled chicken, paneer, or tofu cubes to the pasta for a heartier version of the dish.
Pasta in Pudina Chutney Sauce is the perfect example of how you can bring together two diverse culinary worlds—Indian and Italian—into one harmonious and delicious dish. The balance of fresh herbs, spices, and zesty flavors makes it a standout dinner choice that’s both light and comforting. Enjoy this unique fusion dish and treat yourself to a burst of freshness with every bite!
