Fettucini alfonso

Fettucini Alfonso Recipe - Authentic Italian Vegan Dish

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Fettucini alfonso is a delicious and creamy pasta dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. This recipe combines the flavors of sweet corn, creamy tahini, and hearty beans to create a satisfying and flavorful dish that the whole family will love.

History

Fettucini alfonso is a modern twist on traditional pasta dishes, combining classic Italian flavors with a plant-based twist. This recipe is a great way to enjoy a creamy and satisfying pasta dish without the need for heavy cream or cheese.

Ingredients

1.5 cups frozen corn kernels
1.5 cups low fat, non-dairy (vegan) milk
2 tbsp tahini (optional)
-
1 tbsp onion granules
1 (15.5 oz (142 g)) can of great northern beans, rinsed and drained well
1 lb (454 g) fettucini
cracked black pepper (optional)

How to prepare

Thaw the corn kernels by placing them in a mesh strainer and rinsing them under hot, running tap water. Stir gently until completely thawed, then drain well and measure the corn.
In a blender, combine the thawed corn, milk (and tahini, if using), and seasoning. Process until the mixture is completely smooth. This may take several minutes to fully pulverize the corn.
Pour the blended mixture into a medium saucepan and stir in the beans. Heat over medium-low heat until the beans are warmed through, stirring frequently.
While the sauce is heating, cook the fettuccine in a large pot of boiling water until it is al dente. Drain the cooked pasta well and return it to the pot.
Add the hot sauce to the cooked pasta and toss until the pasta is evenly coated.
Serve immediately, topping each portion with a generous amount of cracked pepper.
Nutritional information per serving (6): calories: 251, protein: 1 g, carbohydrates: 30 g, fat: 1 g

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Use different types of beans, such as black beans or kidney beans, for a different flavor profile.
Stir in some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for a pop of freshness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Thaw the corn kernels thoroughly before blending to ensure a smooth and creamy sauce.

- Be sure to rinse and drain the beans well to remove any excess salt or liquid.

- Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more onion granules or cracked black pepper as desired.

- Serve the pasta immediately after tossing with the sauce to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve fettucini alfonso with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh herbs or grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when tossed with the sauce.

- Blend the corn mixture until completely smooth to ensure a creamy and velvety sauce.

- Heat the sauce gently to prevent it from curdling or separating.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use fresh corn kernels instead of frozen for a sweeter and fresher flavor.

- Substitute almond butter or cashew butter for tahini if desired.

- Use any type of pasta you prefer, such as spaghetti or penne, in place of fettucini.

Make Ahead Tips

The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently before tossing with the cooked pasta.

- Cook the pasta ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish each serving of fettucini alfonso with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil. - Serve the pasta in individual bowls or on a large platter for a family-style meal. - Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy finish.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve fettucini alfonso with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal.

- Pair this dish with a side of garlic bread or breadsticks for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of fettucini alfonso in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of fettucini alfonso contains approximately 251 calories. This makes it a light and satisfying meal option that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of fettucini alfonso contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. This dish is a great source of energy and can be enjoyed as part of a balanced meal.

Fats

Fettucini alfonso is a low-fat dish, with only 1 gram of fat per serving. This makes it a healthy and nutritious option for those looking to reduce their fat intake.

Proteins

Each serving of fettucini alfonso contains 1 gram of protein. While this dish is not a significant source of protein, it can be paired with a protein-rich side dish or salad to create a balanced meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Fettucini alfonso is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, iron, and folate from the corn and beans. This dish is a nutritious option for those looking to increase their intake of essential nutrients.

Alergens

This recipe contains tahini, which is made from sesame seeds. It may not be suitable for those with sesame allergies. Be sure to check for any other allergens in the ingredients before preparing this dish.

Summary

Fettucini alfonso is a nutritious and delicious pasta dish that is low in fat and calories. It is a good source of carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals, making it a healthy option for a quick and easy meal.

Summary

Fettucini alfonso is a delicious and creamy pasta dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. This recipe is a great way to enjoy the flavors of sweet corn, creamy tahini, and hearty beans in a satisfying and nutritious dish. Serve this pasta with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that the whole family will love.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for the first time. It was a warm summer day, and I was browsing through an old cookbook at a flea market. As I flipped through the yellowed pages, a handwritten note fell out onto my lap. It read, "Fettucini Alfonso - a family secret passed down through generations. Enjoy!"

Intrigued, I decided to give it a try. I gathered the ingredients - fresh fettucini pasta, cream, butter, parmesan cheese, and a touch of nutmeg. As I cooked, the kitchen filled with a tantalizing aroma that reminded me of my childhood. I remembered watching my own grandmother prepare similar dishes with such love and care.

As the dish came together, I took my first bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth - rich and creamy, with a hint of warmth from the nutmeg. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before. I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special.

I couldn't wait to share this newfound recipe with my family. I invited them over for dinner, and as they sat around the table, I served up the Fettucini Alfonso. Their eyes widened as they took their first bites, and I could see the same joy and nostalgia in their faces that I had felt earlier.

My grandmother was particularly impressed. She had never tasted anything quite like it and begged me to share the recipe with her. I happily obliged, passing down the tradition to yet another generation.

Over the years, I continued to make Fettucini Alfonso for special occasions and family gatherings. It became a staple in our household, a dish that brought us all together and reminded us of our shared history.

I soon learned that this recipe had a storied past. It was said to have originated in a small village in Italy, where it was passed down from generation to generation. Each family had their own twist on the dish, adding their own unique ingredients and techniques.

I felt honored to be a part of this culinary tradition, to have stumbled upon a recipe that had brought so much joy and connection to my family. I began to experiment with different variations, adding my own flair to the dish while still honoring its roots.

As I grew older, I realized that cooking was more than just following a recipe - it was a way to preserve memories, to connect with loved ones, and to celebrate life's special moments. And Fettucini Alfonso became a symbol of that for me.

I often think back to that warm summer day at the flea market, where I first discovered this hidden gem of a recipe. It's amazing how a simple piece of paper could lead me on such a delicious and heartwarming journey.

Now, as I pass this recipe down to my own grandchildren, I hope they too will find joy in creating and sharing this dish with their loved ones. For in every bite of Fettucini Alfonso, there is a taste of tradition, of love, and of family. And that is a recipe worth cherishing forever.