Tropical Pasta

Tropical Pasta Recipe with Vermicelli, Red Bell Pepper, Mango, and Peanuts

| Servings: 4

Introduction

Tropical Pasta is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of mango with the crunch of peanuts and the tanginess of bell peppers. This dish is perfect for a light and satisfying meal on a warm summer day.

History

Tropical Pasta is a fusion dish that combines elements of Asian and Western cuisine. The combination of pasta with tropical fruits and nuts creates a unique and delicious flavor profile that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

4 oz (113 g) of uncooked vermicelli
1 medium red bell pepper, cut into 2 x 0.25-inch strips
1 small mango, chopped
1 medium tomato, chopped
2 tbsp of fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tbsp of peanut oil
0.5 tsp of salt
0.5 tsp of ground cardamom
0.25 cup of chopped cocktail peanuts

How to prepare

Cook the vermicelli according to the package directions and drain.
Rinse the cooked vermicelli with cold water and drain.
Toss the vermicelli with the remaining ingredients, except for the peanuts.
Sprinkle the dish with peanuts.

Variations

Add shrimp or chicken for a protein boost.
Use different types of pasta such as linguine or fettuccine.
Experiment with different herbs and spices such as basil or curry powder.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to rinse the cooked vermicelli with cold water to prevent it from sticking together.

- Adjust the amount of salt and cardamom to suit your taste preferences.

- Feel free to add other tropical fruits such as pineapple or papaya for a different twist on this dish.

Serving Suggestions

Tropical Pasta can be served as a main dish or as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. It pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the vermicelli al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.

- Toss the pasta with the other ingredients while it is still warm to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use cashews or almonds instead of peanuts.

- Substitute red bell peppers with yellow or orange bell peppers for a different color and flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Tropical Pasta can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the dish with additional chopped cilantro or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a pop of color and flavor. Serve in a large bowl or on individual plates for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Tropical Pasta pairs well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager beer. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving with a glass of iced tea or lemonade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Tropical Pasta contains approximately 350 calories. This makes it a relatively light and healthy meal option.

Carbohydrates

The carbohydrates in this dish primarily come from the vermicelli pasta and the mango. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Fats

The fats in this dish come from the peanut oil and the chopped peanuts. Fats are essential for the absorption of certain vitamins and minerals, as well as for providing energy to the body.

Proteins

While this dish is not particularly high in protein, the peanuts do provide a small amount. Protein is important for building and repairing tissues in the body, as well as for supporting a healthy immune system.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C from the bell peppers and mango. Vitamin C is important for immune function and skin health, among other benefits.

Alergens

This dish contains peanuts, which are a common allergen. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving this dish to guests.

Summary

Tropical Pasta is a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in carbohydrates, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for a light and satisfying meal.

Summary

Tropical Pasta is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a light and satisfying meal. With the sweetness of mango, the crunch of peanuts, and the tanginess of bell peppers, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Tropical Pasta. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting a friend who had just returned from a vacation in Hawaii. She had brought back a cookbook filled with all sorts of delicious island-inspired dishes, and as she flipped through the pages, my eyes landed on a recipe for Tropical Pasta.

The ingredients were a vibrant blend of flavors: juicy pineapple, tender shrimp, crunchy bell peppers, and sweet coconut milk. It seemed like the perfect combination of savory and sweet, and I couldn't wait to get home and try it out for myself.

As soon as I got back to my kitchen, I gathered all the necessary ingredients and got to work. I sautéed the shrimp in a fragrant garlic and ginger sauce, then added in the pineapple and bell peppers to create a colorful medley of flavors. The coconut milk added a creamy richness to the dish, making it feel like a tropical paradise on a plate.

As the pasta cooked to perfection, I couldn't help but smile at the aroma wafting through my kitchen. It was a scent that transported me back to that sunny day in Hawaii, where the breeze was warm and the ocean sparkled in the distance.

When the pasta was finally ready, I plated it up and took a bite. The flavors exploded in my mouth, each bite a burst of tropical goodness. The sweetness of the pineapple paired perfectly with the savory shrimp, and the coconut milk added a luxurious creaminess that tied everything together.

I couldn't believe how easy it was to make such a delicious and exotic dish. It was like a taste of paradise right in my own home, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my cooking repertoire.

Over the years, I've made this Tropical Pasta recipe countless times, each time tweaking it slightly to suit my taste. Sometimes I'll add in a squeeze of fresh lime juice for a burst of citrus, or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. But no matter how I customize it, the essence of the dish always remains the same: a vibrant, flavorful celebration of the tropics.

I've shared this recipe with friends and family, all of whom have raved about its deliciousness. They always ask me where I learned to make such a unique and mouthwatering dish, and I simply smile and say that it was inspired by a sunny day in Hawaii and a cookbook filled with island magic.

As I sit here now, reminiscing about that first time I made Tropical Pasta, I can't help but feel grateful for the culinary adventures that have shaped my cooking journey. Each recipe I've learned and mastered has added a new layer of flavor and excitement to my life, and I know that there are still countless more to discover.

So here's to the joy of cooking, the thrill of trying new recipes, and the memories that each dish creates. And most of all, here's to Tropical Pasta, a recipe that will always hold a special place in my heart and my kitchen. Cheers to many more delicious meals to come!