Peanut Pasta

Peanut Pasta Recipe - A Delicious and Flavorful Twist on a Healthy Dish

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Peanut Pasta is a delicious and creamy dish that combines the nutty flavor of peanut butter with the savory taste of soy sauce and the tanginess of citrus juices. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

History

Peanut Pasta is a popular dish in many Asian countries, where peanuts are a common ingredient in savory dishes. The combination of peanut butter and pasta is a unique twist on traditional pasta dishes, adding a rich and creamy texture to the noodles.

Ingredients

8 oz (227 g) of your favorite pasta (spaghetti works well)
0.5 cup smooth or crunchy peanut butter
0.25 cup warm water
2 tbsp tamari or soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar or lemon juice
1 tbsp orange juice concentrate
0.25 tsp cayenne pepper or crushed red chilies (or adjust to taste)
1 clove garlic (or 0.5 tsp garlic powder)
0.5 to 1 tsp ground ginger root (or 0.5 tsp ground ginger)
0.25 cup frozen green peas, thawed
1 finely sliced scallion—both white and green parts (optional)
0.25 cup grated carrot (optional)

How to prepare

Prepare the pasta according to the directions on the package.
While the pasta is cooking, combine peanut butter, water, tamari or soy sauce, vinegar or lemon juice, cayenne pepper or crushed chilies, and ginger in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, then set aside.
Add peas to the pasta pot one minute before the pasta is finished cooking. Cook for an additional minute.
Once the pasta is cooked, drain the noodles and peas. Place them in a bowl and mix with the sauce. Optionally, add scallions and carrots. Toss everything together. The pasta can be served warm or cold.

Variations

Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
Substitute almond butter or cashew butter for the peanut butter for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.

- Adjust the amount of red chilies to suit your taste preferences. You can also omit them entirely if you prefer a milder dish.

- Feel free to add other vegetables to the dish, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas, to add more color and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Peanut Pasta with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Garnish with chopped peanuts or cilantro for added flavor and texture.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to toss the pasta with the sauce immediately after draining to prevent it from sticking together.

- If serving the pasta cold, refrigerate it for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use almond butter or cashew butter instead of peanut butter.

- Substitute tamari for soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

- Use lime juice instead of lemon juice for a different citrus flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Peanut Pasta can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish Peanut Pasta with a sprinkle of chopped peanuts, a drizzle of sesame oil, and a wedge of lime for a beautiful presentation. Serve in a colorful bowl or on a decorative plate for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Peanut Pasta with a crisp white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to complement the nutty flavors of the dish. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving with a glass of iced green tea or sparkling water with a splash of lime.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Peanut Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

380

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 45g

- Dietary Fiber: 5g

- Sugars: 5g

Fats

- Total Fat: 15g

- Saturated Fat: 3g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 12g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 25% DV

- Vitamin C: 15% DV

- Iron: 10% DV

Alergens

Contains peanuts and soy

Summary

Peanut Pasta is a balanced meal that provides a good amount of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and protein. It is also a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as iron.

Summary

Peanut Pasta is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the creamy richness of peanut butter with the savory flavors of soy sauce and citrus juices. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick and delicious meal. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her cozy kitchen. The aroma of garlic and onions sizzling in olive oil filled the air, and my stomach rumbled in anticipation.

Martha was busy chopping vegetables and tossing them into a pot of boiling water. She smiled at me and said, "I'm making my famous Peanut Pasta tonight. Would you like to learn how to make it?"

I eagerly accepted her offer, eager to learn a new recipe that I could add to my collection. Martha had a talent for combining flavors and creating delicious meals, and I knew that this dish would be no exception.

As we worked together in the kitchen, Martha shared the story of how she had discovered the recipe for Peanut Pasta. She had traveled to Thailand many years ago and had fallen in love with the country's cuisine. One evening, she had dined at a small family-owned restaurant where she had tasted the most incredible Peanut Pasta she had ever had.

Determined to recreate the dish at home, Martha had struck up a conversation with the chef and had convinced him to share his recipe with her. She had made a few tweaks and additions of her own over the years, and the result was a dish that had become a staple in her kitchen.

As we cooked together, Martha guided me through the steps of making the Peanut Pasta. We cooked the pasta al dente and tossed it with a creamy peanut sauce made from peanut butter, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. We added a medley of vegetables, including bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, for a pop of color and crunch.

The finished dish was a beautiful sight to behold, with vibrant colors and a tantalizing aroma that made my mouth water. I eagerly took a bite, and my taste buds exploded with the flavors of creamy peanut sauce, tender pasta, and crisp vegetables. It was a symphony of flavors and textures that danced on my palate.

I knew that I had to add this recipe to my collection, and Martha graciously shared it with me. She wrote it down on a weathered recipe card, complete with detailed instructions and helpful tips. I tucked the card into my apron pocket, grateful for the opportunity to learn from such a talented cook.

Over the years, I have made Peanut Pasta countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my tastes. I have added shrimp, chicken, and tofu for protein, and I have experimented with different vegetables and seasonings. Each version has been a delicious success, and I have shared the recipe with friends and family who have all raved about it.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart, not just because it is incredibly delicious, but because it represents the joy of learning and sharing with others. Cooking is a gift that brings people together, and I am grateful for the opportunity to pass on the knowledge and skills that I have acquired over the years.

As I sit down to enjoy a plate of Peanut Pasta made with love and care, I am reminded of the day I learned the recipe from my dear friend Martha. The memories of that warm summer day in her kitchen will always hold a special place in my heart, and I am grateful for the bond that cooking has created between us.

And so, I will continue to cook and share my recipes with others, passing on the traditions and flavors that have brought me so much joy over the years. For me, cooking is not just a hobby or a necessity – it is a way of life, a way of connecting with others and creating memories that will last a lifetime. And for that, I am truly grateful.