This beetroot pasta recipe brings together the earthy richness of red beets and the nutty flavor of hazelnuts to create a vibrant and delicious dish that’s both nutritious and satisfying. The natural sweetness of the beetroot pairs beautifully with the pasta and creates a stunning color, making it as visually appealing as it is tasty. To enhance the flavour, a dash of lemon juice and a sprinkle of garlic cloves add a zesty kick, while the creamy texture of ricotta cheese or goat cheese complements the robust sauce. Whether you're a fan of pasta dishes or looking to try something new, this recipe is a perfect choice for a wholesome meal. Serve it with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete dinner that will impress both family and guests.
Hazelnut & Beetroot Pasta Recipe
Serves
4
Blanched Hazelnuts
Orecchiette
Cooked Beetroots
Fresh Basil
Garlic Clove
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Ricotta
Vegetarian Parmesan
Lemon
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Sophie Godwin
Sophie Godwin is a cookbook author, food writer and chef. When she’s not catering weddings, she is rustling up accessible cookable bangers. She's helped us write multiple Mob cookbooks over the years and her recipes never disappoint. Her debut cookbook Sundays is out now.
This beetroot pasta recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes that elevate its flavours. Consider serving it with a fresh salad made from mixed greens, courgette (zucchini), and sun-dried tomatoes to add a refreshing contrast to the earthy richness of the beetroot. For an extra layer of flavour, sprinkle some feta cheese or mozzarella over the pasta, which will add a creamy texture that complements the hazelnuts.
If you're looking for a heartier option, roasted sweet potatoes or a warm potato casserole can serve as a comforting side dish, enhancing the natural sweetness of the red beets. A light drizzle of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice can also be added just before serving to bring a bright, tangy note to the dish.
For garnishes, freshly chopped herbs like basil or parsley add a burst of colour and freshness, while a sprinkle of crushed red peppers can introduce a mild heat. If you enjoy a bit of crunch, toasted breadcrumbs or a handful of toasted oats can be scattered over the top.
Pair this dish with a glass of red wine or a light, sparkling beverage to complete the meal. The versatility of this pasta dish allows it to be both a comforting weeknight dinner and an impressive option for entertaining guests.
When preparing a beetroot pasta recipe, there are several techniques and substitutions that can enhance or alter the dish’s flavour and texture. Using fresh pasta is ideal, as it absorbs the rich beetroot sauce better than dried pasta, but either will work well depending on your preference. If you prefer a gluten-free option, you can substitute traditional Italian pasta with a gluten-free variety, but be mindful that this might slightly change the texture.
Cooking the beetroot properly is crucial for achieving the best flavour and colour. You can roast the red beets in the oven or cook them on the stove in a pan. Roasting will intensify the beetroot's sweetness, while stove-top cooking may result in a slightly earthier taste. Either method will work well, but roasting is recommended if you want a sweeter, more concentrated flavour in your pasta sauce.
When it comes to cookware, a blender or food processor is essential for blending the roasted or cooked beetroot into a smooth sauce. If you don't have one, mashing the beets by hand is an alternative, but this will result in a chunkier sauce. For heating the sauce, a medium-sized saucepan on the stove works best to allow the flavours to meld together before tossing it with the pasta.
For added flavour, consider including a clove of garlic or two in the sauce. This adds a depth of flavour that complements the natural sweetness of the beet plant. If you enjoy a bit of tang, a splash of vinegar or lemon juice can be stirred into the sauce towards the end of cooking.
For those looking to substitute the hazelnuts, other nuts like walnuts or almonds can be used, each bringing its own unique flavour profile. Alternatively, for a nut-free version, you could add some sun-dried tomatoes or spices like paprika or cumin to the sauce, which would add a different kind of richness.
To make the dish more filling, you could add roasted sweet potatoes or sautéed red peppers to the pasta dishes as these ingredients pair well with the earthy beetroot and add a lovely texture.
Lastly, ensure your pasta water is well-salted before cooking, as this will enhance the overall flavour of the beetroot pasta recipe. Serve the dish with a sprinkle of feta cheese or ricotta cheese for creaminess, or a handful of fresh herbs like basil or parsley to add a pop of freshness.
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Yes, beetroot pasta is a healthy option, as it combines the nutritional benefits of beetroots with the versatility of pasta. Beetroots are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, particularly betalains, which have anti-inflammatory properties. They also provide dietary fibre, which supports digestive health. When paired with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, this dish can be a well-rounded, nutritious meal.
To make this beetroot pasta recipe healthier, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, which adds more fibre and nutrients. You can also reduce the amount of cheese or replace it with a plant-based alternative to lower the saturated fat content. Adding extra vegetables like spinach, kale, or roasted red peppers will boost the dish's nutrient density without compromising flavour.
Yes, you can make Mob's beetroot pasta recipe ahead of time. Prepare the sauce and pasta separately, then combine them when you're ready to serve. This allows the flavours to meld while ensuring the pasta doesn’t absorb too much moisture and become soggy. Store the sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
To maintain the vibrant colour and freshness of beetroot pasta, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If storing the sauce separately, keep it in a sealed container to prevent oxidation, which can dull the colour. Adding a little lemon juice to the sauce before storing can help preserve its bright hue.
You can keep this beetroot pasta recipe in the fridge for up to three days. If you need to store it longer, it can be frozen for up to three months. When freezing, store the sauce and pasta separately to maintain the best texture and flavour. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
To reheat Mob's beetroot pasta recipe without losing flavour, warm the sauce gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it if needed. Reheat the pasta by briefly dipping it in boiling water for 30 seconds or microwaving it with a damp paper towel on top to prevent it from drying out.
To retain the vibrant colour of beetroot during cooking, avoid overcooking the beetroots, as extended heat can cause the colour to fade. Adding a small amount of acid, such as lemon juice or vinegar, can help preserve the bright red hue by stabilising the pigments in the beets.
To adjust cook times for different beetroot pasta consistencies, experiment with the length of time you cook the pasta. For a firmer texture, reduce the cooking time by 1-2 minutes. For a softer, more tender pasta, extend the cook time slightly. Always taste-test to ensure the pasta is cooked to your preferred consistency.
To balance the earthy flavour of beetroot in a pasta dish, pair it with ingredients that add sweetness, acidity, or creaminess. Ingredients like garlic, lemon juice, or a tangy cheese like feta can brighten the dish, while nuts like hazelnuts or almonds add texture and balance. Herbs like basil or parsley can also add freshness and counteract the earthiness.
To prevent beetroot pasta from becoming too sticky or dry, make sure to cook the pasta in well-salted water and reserve some of the pasta water before draining. Tossing the pasta in the sauce immediately after cooking, along with a splash of reserved pasta water, helps maintain moisture and ensures the sauce coats the pasta evenly.
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