This Casarecce Pasta Primavera with fresh vegetables is perfect to serve for dinner this week!
We all know that weeknights can be quite hectic for busy moms.
Between juggling work schedules, school assignments, and the unpredictability of daily life, finding the time and energy to whip up a gourmet meal can sometimes seem impossible.
But, there’s a recipe you might not have in your weekly meal plan rotation yet: Casarecce Pasta Primavera!
Casarecce Pasta Primavera
Why Casarecce Pasta is a Game Changer
First, let’s dive into what makes Casarecce pasta so special.
Casarecce is a type of pasta that originates from Sicily. Its twisted and scroll-like shape is designed to perfectly hold sauces, ensuring every bite is as flavorful as the next.
When you think of comfort food with a hint of elegance, Casarecce should be at the top of your list.
The Magic of Pasta Primavera
The term ‘Primavera’ translates from Italian as ‘spring’, and this dish truly encapsulates the essence of the season.
With its vibrant vegetables and light, creamy sauce, this Pasta Primavera variation offers a symphony of flavors and textures that both kids and adults will adore.
Plus, incorporating vegetables into a pasta dish is a clever way to get even the pickiest eaters to consume their greens.
Why This Recipe is Ideal for Busy Moms
- Quick and Easy Preparation: Time is of the essence on weeknights, and this recipe respects that. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a steaming, aromatic plate of Casarecce Pasta Primavera ready for the family.
- Minimal Ingredients: No need to scour the aisles for hard-to-find ingredients. The list is straightforward and the items are easily accessible. They might already be in your pantry or fridge!
- Versatility: While this recipe has a certain set of ingredients, it’s also versatile. You can always add your family’s favorite vegetables or switch the protein. Chicken, shrimp, or even tofu can work wonders in this dish.
- Nutrition Packed: Besides being utterly delicious, this dish offers a good balance of carbs, protein, and essential nutrients, thanks to the combination of pasta, veggies, and meat.
A Touch of Luxury with Prosciutto
Let’s pause for a moment and appreciate the inclusion of prosciutto in this recipe.
Prosciutto, a dry-cured ham from Italy, lends a unique taste and texture to the dish. Its savory and slightly salty tones contrast beautifully with the creamy sauce.
If you’ve been reserving prosciutto for special occasions, this dish is a reminder that every day can be a celebration with the right recipe.
Making the Meal a Memory
Dining is not just about the food; it’s also about the experience. Here are a few tips to elevate your Casarecce Pasta Primavera night:
- Pair with a Light Wine: For those of you who enjoy a glass of wine with dinner, a light white wine or a rose would pair delightfully with this dish.
- Freshly Baked Bread: A loaf of garlic bread or ciabatta can complement the pasta and help mop up any remaining sauce on the plate.
- Play Some Italian Tunes: Why not bring a bit of Italy into your home? Some light Italian background music can set the mood and maybe even inspire a little post-dinner dancing.
- Get the Kids Involved: Cooking can be a fun family activity. Let the kids sprinkle the Parmesan or set the table. They’ll likely be more excited to eat a dish they’ve had a hand in preparing.
I know the challenge of bringing something new, delicious, and nutritious to the dinner table each night.
The Casarecce Pasta Primavera checks all those boxes. It’s a dish that whispers of Italian landscapes, springtime freshness, and the comforts of home.
So, why not try it this week? Set aside those usual recipes you’ve been cycling through and introduce your family to this delightful dish.
And when they shower you with compliments (because trust me, they will), take a moment to bask in the joy of creating a memorable meal.
More Pasta Recipes:
Casarecce Pasta Primavera
Ingredients:
- 1 lb. Casarecce pasta
- 1 large carrot, cut into matchsticks
- 1 cup snap peas
- asparagus
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz. prosciutto or ham, chopped small
- 1 shallot, sliced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken stock
- Parmesan cheese
Directions:
Boil pasta as directed on package, drain and set aside.
In a skillet, saute prosciutto or ham and shallot for about 3 minutes.
Add in garlic and red pepper flakes, cook for 1 minute.
Stir in cream, stock, and mustard.
Add in veggies and simmer for about 5 minutes.
Add in drained pasta, toss until combined.
Finish with fresh parmesan cheese if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Casarecce Pasta Primavera
Ingredients
- 1 lb. Casarecce pasta - or your favorite pasta
- 1 large carrot, cut into matchsticks
- 1 cup snap peas
- asparagus
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz. prosciutto or ham, chopped small
- 1 shallot, sliced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken stock
- Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Boil pasta as directed on package, drain and set aside.
In a skillet, saute prosciutto or ham and shallot for about 3 minutes.
Add in garlic and red pepper flakes, cook for 1 minute.
Stir in cream, stock, and mustard.
Add in veggies and simmer for about 5 minutes.
Add in drained pasta, toss until combined.
Finish with fresh parmesan cheese if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Casarecce pasta?
Casarecce is a type of pasta that originates from Sicily. It has a unique twisted, scroll-like shape, perfect for capturing and holding onto rich sauces and ingredients. The name “Casarecce” is derived from the Italian word for “homemade.”
How is Casarecce different from other pasta types?
Casarecce stands out due to its unique design resembling a narrow, twisted and rolled tube. This structure makes it particularly adept at holding chunky sauces and ingredients, distinguishing it from smoother, straighter pasta varieties.
What dishes pair best with Casarecce?
Casarecce is versatile and goes beautifully with a range of sauces, from light olive oil-based preparations to hearty meat sauces. However, its shape particularly shines with chunky vegetable sauces, pesto, and meaty preparations.
How do you cook Casarecce to perfection?
Like most pasta types, Casarecce should be cooked in boiling salted water. For an al dente texture, which is slightly firm and not too soft, follow the recommended time on the package, usually around 9-11 minutes.
Why choose Casarecce over other pasta varieties?
Casarecce offers a unique blend of tradition and versatility. Its Sicilian roots bring an authentic Italian touch to dishes, while its design ensures a perfect sauce-pasta blend in every bite.
Can Casarecce be used in cold pasta salads?
Casarecce’s shape allows it to retain dressings and mix-ins efficiently, making it a great choice for cold pasta salads and summer dishes.
What sauces don’t pair well with Casarecce?
While Casarecce is quite versatile, extremely thin or watery sauces may not adhere to it as well as they would with more textured pasta types. However, this is a matter of personal preference.
Where can I buy Casarecce?
Most well-stocked grocery stores will carry Casarecce in their pasta aisle. If you’re seeking artisanal or imported varieties, specialty Italian grocery stores or online retailers may be your best bet.
How can I make homemade Casarecce?
To make Casarecce at home, you’d need a basic pasta dough made from flour and eggs. Once rolled out, the dough is cut into narrow strips and then twisted to form the distinctive Casarecce shape. There are numerous online tutorials available for those keen on mastering the art.
What is the nutritional value of Casarecce?
Like most pasta types, Casarecce is primarily a source of carbohydrates. Its nutritional content can vary based on the brand and ingredients used. It’s always advisable to check the packaging for specific nutritional information.