Beef and Asparagus Pasta Toss

Beef and Asparagus Pasta Toss Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Beef and Asparagus Pasta Toss is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of ground beef with the fresh, crisp taste of asparagus and the comforting texture of bow tie pasta. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a hearty yet sophisticated meal that is both easy to prepare and delicious. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or looking for a new recipe to impress your guests, this dish is sure to satisfy.

History

The origins of combining beef and pasta can be traced back to Italian cuisine, where meat-based sauces and pasta have been staples for centuries. However, the addition of asparagus brings a modern twist to this classic combination, offering a fresh and nutritious element. The Beef and Asparagus Pasta Toss is a contemporary recipe that reflects the growing trend of incorporating more vegetables into meals for a balanced diet.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) ground beef
3 cups uncooked bow tie pasta
1 lb (454 g) fresh asparagus, cut into 1 inch pieces
3 tbsp olive oil
0.25 cup minced shallots (about 2 large)
2 or 3 cloves garlic, minced
salt and pepper

How to prepare

Cook the pasta in boiling salted water for 10 minutes or until it is almost tender.
Add the asparagus and continue cooking for 3 to 4 minutes or until both the pasta and asparagus are tender. Drain well.
Meanwhile, brown the ground beef in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes or until the beef is no longer pink, breaking it up into 0.75 inch crumbles.
Remove the beef from the skillet using a slotted spoon and pour off the drippings.
Heat the oil in the same skillet over medium heat until it is hot.
Add the shallots and garlic and cook for 3 to 4 minutes or until they are tender, stirring frequently. Remove from heat.
Add the beef to the skillet and toss to mix.
Season with salt and pepper, as desired.
Combine the beef mixture with the pasta and asparagus in a large bowl and toss well.

Variations

For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat pasta or substituting the ground beef with ground turkey. Adding cherry tomatoes or spinach can also introduce more vegetables and flavors into the dish.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results for your Beef and Asparagus Pasta Toss, consider the following tips:

- Use fresh asparagus for the best flavor and texture. Look for bright green stalks with firm, closed tips.

- Brown the ground beef thoroughly to develop a deep flavor. Make sure to break the beef into small crumbles for even cooking.

- Cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming too soft when tossed with the other ingredients.

- Reserve a bit of the pasta cooking water to help bind the sauce and create a silky texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Beef and Asparagus Pasta Toss with a side of garlic bread or a light salad for a complete meal. Grated Parmesan cheese can also be sprinkled on top for an extra touch of flavor.

Cooking Techniques

To achieve the best texture and flavor, focus on properly browning the beef and sautéing the shallots and garlic until they are fragrant. Ensuring the pasta is cooked al dente will also enhance the overall dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

If asparagus is not in season, green beans or broccoli can serve as excellent substitutes. For a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or chickpeas instead of ground beef.

Make Ahead Tips

The beef and vegetable mixture can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Simply toss with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve for a quick and easy meal.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the pasta in a large, shallow bowl with a garnish of fresh parsley or basil to add color and freshness. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil can also elevate the dish's presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

A light red wine, such as a Pinot Noir, or a crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, pairs beautifully with the flavors of this dish. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent the pasta from drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Beef and Asparagus Pasta Toss contains approximately 400 calories, making it a satisfying yet balanced option for a main meal. The calories are well distributed among carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to provide sustained energy.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Beef and Asparagus Pasta Toss contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of carbohydrates in this dish is the bow tie pasta, which provides energy and fiber. Opting for whole wheat pasta can increase the fiber content and offer a more complex carbohydrate option.

Fats

This recipe contains about 15 grams of fat per serving, with the majority coming from the olive oil and ground beef. Using lean ground beef can help reduce the fat content, while the olive oil contributes healthy monounsaturated fats to the dish.

Proteins

Each serving of Beef and Asparagus Pasta Toss offers a generous 25 grams of protein, making it an excellent option for muscle repair and growth. The ground beef is the primary protein source, complemented by the protein content of the pasta.

Vitamins and minerals

Asparagus is a nutritional powerhouse, providing a good source of vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as folate and iron. These vitamins and minerals support immune function, vision health, blood clotting, and red blood cell formation.

Alergens

This recipe may contain allergens such as gluten (in the pasta) and potential allergens in the beef, depending on its processing. Individuals with specific food allergies should consider suitable ingredient substitutions.

Summary

Overall, the Beef and Asparagus Pasta Toss is a balanced meal offering a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a nutritious option that doesn't compromise on flavor.

Summary

The Beef and Asparagus Pasta Toss is a versatile and flavorful dish that combines nutritious ingredients with delicious taste. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to impress guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. With its balanced nutrition profile and easy adaptability, it caters to a wide range of dietary preferences and needs.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be cherished in my heart. It was a warm summer day, and I was rummaging through some old cookbooks that had been passed down to me from my own mother. As I flipped through the pages, a faded piece of paper fell out and landed at my feet.

Curious, I picked it up and unfolded it to reveal a handwritten note from a dear friend of mine, Margaret. She had scribbled down the recipe for a Beef and Asparagus Pasta Toss that she had learned from her Italian grandmother many years ago. I could almost smell the savory aroma wafting from the page as I read through the list of ingredients and instructions.

I knew I had to try this recipe out for myself, for both Margaret's sake and my own love of cooking. So, I gathered all the necessary ingredients and set to work in my kitchen, feeling a sense of excitement and anticipation building within me.

The first step was to sauté the beef until it was cooked through and tender. I could hear the sizzle of the meat as it browned in the hot pan, releasing its rich, meaty fragrance into the air. Next, I added in the fresh asparagus, its vibrant green color popping against the backdrop of the beef.

As the vegetables began to soften and soak up the flavors of the beef, I cooked the pasta until it was al dente, ready to be tossed together with the meat and vegetables. The final touch was a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, adding a creamy, salty finish to the dish.

I couldn't wait to dig into my creation, the anticipation making my mouth water in anticipation. As I took my first bite, I was transported to a place of pure culinary bliss. The tender beef, the crisp asparagus, the al dente pasta – they all harmonized together in a symphony of flavors that danced across my taste buds.

I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen, a dish that I would make again and again for friends and family. I could already picture the smiles on their faces as they took their first bite, just as I had done moments before.

As I finished my meal, I felt a sense of gratitude towards Margaret for sharing this recipe with me. It was a gift that had brought me so much joy and satisfaction, a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our past and to those we hold dear.

From that day on, the Beef and Asparagus Pasta Toss became a beloved favorite in my repertoire of recipes, a dish that I would always hold close to my heart. And as I continued to cook and create in my kitchen, I knew that the memories of that warm summer day would always be with me, guiding me as I shared my love of cooking with those around me.